Cellcom Sets 2G and 3G Network Shutdown Dates for 2023
Green Bay, WI (October 27, 2022) – Last year wireless users in the United States used more data than 53.4 trillion MBs of data; that’s more data consumed than the years 2010 through 2017 combined and more than double data usage in 2020[1]. To support this increasing consumption and demand for fast data connections, the wireless industry is investing in the 4G and 5G networks that deliver high-speed data interactions while also supporting calling and texting functionality. This collective focus on 5G and the latest network technology is bringing the retirement of older 2G and 3G networks for the industry.
Wisconsin-based wireless carrier Cellcom has set shutdown dates for its 2G and 3G networks in two phases. On March 31, 2023, the company will turn down data (internet) on its 2G and 3G networks, and on December 1, 2023 the voice (calling) functionality will be retired.
Devices that solely rely on 2G and 3G networks, which represents a very small percentage of overall devices, will no longer function. This will impact both Cellcom customers and partners who utilize Cellcom’s network. Cellcom is directly contacting its customers who will need a new device and encouraging them to take action as soon as possible. Impacted devices include basic phones that do not support 4G, early smartphones that do not support Advanced Calling (VoLTE), 3G-only data devices like mobile hotspots (Mi-Fi) or residential broadband devices, and home phone replacement devices that do not support Advanced Calling (VoLTE).
Devices that use 4G and 5G will continue to default to these two networks, which will continue to work in tandem for years to come. Wireless users may be impacted by the shutdown of other wireless networks ahead of Cellcom’s 2G and 3G network shutdown. Cellcom has worked for several years to transfer customers to capable devices and aims for a seamless overall experience for its customers.
For details about the shutdown customers can visit Cellcom.com/networkupdate, contact 800-236-0555 or stop by a local Cellcom location.
Cellcom is an innovative wireless and broadband company that operates its own regional network to provide service for its customer base throughout Wisconsin and Upper Michigan. The company is respected for its long-standing reputation of delivering extraordinary customer care and being a strong community partner. As a subsidiary of Nsight, Cellcom is part of a family of companies offering complete telecommunications services. Learn more at www.cellcom.com.
[1] According to CTIA Annual Survey
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