2degrees begins 3G shutdown
---------------------------
2degrees will start shutting off 3G services on December 14, the
telco has confirmed. 2degrees initially announced its intention
to decommission 3G in July 2023. The shutdown will remove the 3G
service from operation, and see Kiwi mobile users connected to
the more modern 4G and 5G networks.a
a
2degrees CEO Mark Callander says that 2degrees 3G services on
around 100 sites will be decommissioned this month - all of these
are part of the Rural Connectivity Group network.
a
"3G usage on RCG sites is actually rather small, with most people
connecting via 4G so the impact to anyone still using 3G to
connect in those areas is likely to be minimal. We have been
urging customers to get ready for this shutdown, and the time to
take action is now."
a
Callander said people can text '3G' to short code 550 for details
relating to their phone's 4G capability, with links to get more
information if they need to make changes.
a
"We have been repeatedly communicating with all impacted
customers, but human nature being what it is, some people will be
waiting until the last minute to upgrade an old device. Please
check your device, and replace it if you need to."
a
Callander said 2degrees started selling 4G handsets in 2018, and
has only sold 4G and 5G handsets since mid 2022. 4G devices start
from just $69.
a
He says that 2degrees has undertaken a major upgrade of its sites
over the past few years, enhancing 4G and adding 5G equipment.
a
"3G is an old technology now, and it's being closed down
internationally. The next generation of mobile services - 4G and
5G - are designed for modern mobile use, whether that's streaming,
video calls, or running multiple apps and programmes all requiring
data.
a
"Modern networks need to be faster, more resilient, and more
sustainable. 3G simply can't deliver the performance New Zealand
now relies on. By retiring this legacy technology, we can focus on
strengthening and expanding our 4G and 5G networks which carry the
vast majority of today's mobile traffic."
a
Callander urges people to check in with friends, whanau, neighbours
and colleagues, or anyone who may be using a 3G-reliant phone or
device like a tablet, medical alarm or security alarm, to make sure
they're ready for the transition.
a
Further 3G services will be decommissioned early in 2026, 2degrees
says.
a
Old devices can be recycled at 2degrees stores, or people can get
more information from RE:MOBILE at https://remobile.org.nz/a
<https://www.geekzone.co.nz/content.asp?contentid=27269>
They will all be shutdown by March 31.2026. I wonder how many phones
Your Name <YourName@YourISP.com> wrote:
2degrees begins 3G shutdown
---------------------------
2degrees will start shutting off 3G services on December 14, the
telco has confirmed. 2degrees initially announced its intention
to decommission 3G in July 2023. The shutdown will remove the 3G
service from operation, and see Kiwi mobile users connected to
the more modern 4G and 5G networks.a
a
2degrees CEO Mark Callander says that 2degrees 3G services on
around 100 sites will be decommissioned this month - all of these
are part of the Rural Connectivity Group network.
a
"3G usage on RCG sites is actually rather small, with most people
connecting via 4G so the impact to anyone still using 3G to
connect in those areas is likely to be minimal. We have been
urging customers to get ready for this shutdown, and the time to
take action is now."
a
Callander said people can text '3G' to short code 550 for details
relating to their phone's 4G capability, with links to get more
information if they need to make changes.
a
"We have been repeatedly communicating with all impacted
customers, but human nature being what it is, some people will be
waiting until the last minute to upgrade an old device. Please
check your device, and replace it if you need to."
a
Callander said 2degrees started selling 4G handsets in 2018, and
has only sold 4G and 5G handsets since mid 2022. 4G devices start
from just $69.
a
He says that 2degrees has undertaken a major upgrade of its sites
over the past few years, enhancing 4G and adding 5G equipment.
a
"3G is an old technology now, and it's being closed down
internationally. The next generation of mobile services - 4G and
5G - are designed for modern mobile use, whether that's streaming,
video calls, or running multiple apps and programmes all requiring
data.
a
"Modern networks need to be faster, more resilient, and more
sustainable. 3G simply can't deliver the performance New Zealand
now relies on. By retiring this legacy technology, we can focus on
strengthening and expanding our 4G and 5G networks which carry the
vast majority of today's mobile traffic."
a
Callander urges people to check in with friends, whanau, neighbours
and colleagues, or anyone who may be using a 3G-reliant phone or
device like a tablet, medical alarm or security alarm, to make sure
they're ready for the transition.
a
Further 3G services will be decommissioned early in 2026, 2degrees
says.
a
Old devices can be recycled at 2degrees stores, or people can get
more information from RE:MOBILE at https://remobile.org.nz/a
<https://www.geekzone.co.nz/content.asp?contentid=27269>
They will all be shutdown by March 31.2026. I wonder how many phones
will stop working??
The reality is that for most people's needs 3G or earlier is
prefectly fine ...
On Mon, 15 Dec 2025 10:39:28 +1300, Your Name wrote:
The reality is that for most people's needs 3G or earlier is
prefectly fine ...
But radio spectrum is a finite resource. And quite an expensive one, too.
That 3G communication requires radio bands that could be more efficiently redeployed for 4G or 5G.
On Mon, 15 Dec 2025 10:39:28 +1300, Your Name wrote:
The reality is that for most people's needs 3G or earlier is
prefectly fine ...
But radio spectrum is a finite resource. And quite an expensive one, too.
That 3G communication requires radio bands that could be more efficiently redeployed for 4G or 5G.
Sure, you want to continue using a 3G device. Can you afford to pay for
the spectrum needed to satisfy your use?
The reality is that for most people's needs 3G or earlier is
prefectly fine, but the tech companies simply pushing newer tweaks to
force people into continually upgrading their devices - there's no real reason, other than greed, that newer telecom equipment couldn't remain backwards compatible with the older "G" versions. :-\
The same happens with wired connections - USB-A has become USB-C with different sized incompatible plugs. Before that it was Parallel and
serial connections, as well as Apple's ADB, Lightning, and Firewire.
On Mon, 15 Dec 2025 10:39:28 +1300, Your Name wrote:
The reality is that for most people's needs 3G or earlier is
prefectly fine ...
But radio spectrum is a finite resource. And quite an expensive one, too.
That 3G communication requires radio bands that could be more efficiently redeployed for 4G or 5G.
Sure, you want to continue using a 3G device. Can you afford to pay for
the spectrum needed to satisfy your use?
In comp.misc Lawrence D'Oliveiro <ldo@nz.invalid> wrote:
On Mon, 15 Dec 2025 10:39:28 +1300, Your Name wrote:
The reality is that for most people's needs 3G or earlier is
prefectly fine ...
But radio spectrum is a finite resource. And quite an expensive one, too.
That 3G communication requires radio bands that could be more efficiently
redeployed for 4G or 5G.
Less effectively than 3G, so far as coverage range goes. The way
they've done it in Australia anyway.
On 2025-12-14 19:25:51 +0000, Mutley said:
Your Name <YourName@YourISP.com> wrote:
2degrees begins 3G shutdown
---------------------------
2degrees will start shutting off 3G services on December 14, the
telco has confirmed. 2degrees initially announced its intention
to decommission 3G in July 2023. The shutdown will remove the 3G
service from operation, and see Kiwi mobile users connected to
the more modern 4G and 5G networks.a
a
2degrees CEO Mark Callander says that 2degrees 3G services on
around 100 sites will be decommissioned this month - all of these
are part of the Rural Connectivity Group network.
a
"3G usage on RCG sites is actually rather small, with most people
connecting via 4G so the impact to anyone still using 3G to
connect in those areas is likely to be minimal. We have been
urging customers to get ready for this shutdown, and the time to
take action is now."
a
Callander said people can text '3G' to short code 550 for details
relating to their phone's 4G capability, with links to get more
information if they need to make changes.
a
"We have been repeatedly communicating with all impacted
customers, but human nature being what it is, some people will be
waiting until the last minute to upgrade an old device. Please
check your device, and replace it if you need to."
a
Callander said 2degrees started selling 4G handsets in 2018, and
has only sold 4G and 5G handsets since mid 2022. 4G devices start
from just $69.
a
He says that 2degrees has undertaken a major upgrade of its sites
over the past few years, enhancing 4G and adding 5G equipment.
a
"3G is an old technology now, and it's being closed down
internationally. The next generation of mobile services - 4G and
5G - are designed for modern mobile use, whether that's streaming,
video calls, or running multiple apps and programmes all requiring
data.
a
"Modern networks need to be faster, more resilient, and more
sustainable. 3G simply can't deliver the performance New Zealand
now relies on. By retiring this legacy technology, we can focus on
strengthening and expanding our 4G and 5G networks which carry the
vast majority of today's mobile traffic."
a
Callander urges people to check in with friends, whanau, neighbours
and colleagues, or anyone who may be using a 3G-reliant phone or
device like a tablet, medical alarm or security alarm, to make sure
they're ready for the transition.
a
Further 3G services will be decommissioned early in 2026, 2degrees
says.
a
Old devices can be recycled at 2degrees stores, or people can get
more information from RE:MOBILE at https://remobile.org.nz/a
<https://www.geekzone.co.nz/content.asp?contentid=27269>
They will all be shutdown by March 31.2026. I wonder how many phones
will stop working??
Not just phones, but also other things that use a 3G cellular
connection, such as cellular tablets, medical and security alarms, car tracking devices, security cameras that upload directly to a server,
older cellular broadband modems/routers, etc.
But that's really just the tip of the iceberg for the wasteful
abandoning of devices. 1G and 2G are long gone, 3G is nearly gone, 4G
and 5G will be replaced by 6G (probably in 2030, although the older
version won't be shut down until a few years after that), and so on and
so on. The reality is that for most people's needs 3G or earlier is prefectly fine, but the tech companies simply pushing newer tweaks to
force people into continually upgrading their devices - there's no real reason, other than greed, that newer telecom equipment couldn't remain backwards compatible with the older "G" versions. :-\
The same happens with wired connections - USB-A has become USB-C with different sized incompatible plugs. Before that it was Parallel and
serial connections, as well as Apple's ADB, Lightning, and Firewire.
On 2025-12-15 00:51:37 +0000, Computer Nerd Kev said:
In comp.misc Lawrence D'Oliveiro <ldo@nz.invalid> wrote:
On Mon, 15 Dec 2025 10:39:28 +1300, Your Name wrote:
The reality is that for most people's needs 3G or earlier is
prefectly fine ...
But radio spectrum is a finite resource. And quite an expensive one, too. >>>
That 3G communication requires radio bands that could be more efficiently >>> redeployed for 4G or 5G.
Less effectively than 3G, so far as coverage range goes. The way
they've done it in Australia anyway.
4G and especially 5G are specifially designed that way by using higher frequencies to enable (supposed) faster speeds. That of course means
the telecoms companies need more towers, etc. to cover the same area
... and more money for the tech companies.
In comp.misc Your Name <YourName@yourisp.com> wrote:
On 2025-12-15 00:51:37 +0000, Computer Nerd Kev said:
In comp.misc Lawrence D'Oliveiro <ldo@nz.invalid> wrote:
On Mon, 15 Dec 2025 10:39:28 +1300, Your Name wrote:
The reality is that for most people's needs 3G or earlier is
prefectly fine ...
But radio spectrum is a finite resource. And quite an expensive one, too. >>>>
That 3G communication requires radio bands that could be more efficiently >>>> redeployed for 4G or 5G.
Less effectively than 3G, so far as coverage range goes. The way
they've done it in Australia anyway.
4G and especially 5G are specifially designed that way by using higher
frequencies to enable (supposed) faster speeds. That of course means
the telecoms companies need more towers, etc. to cover the same area
... and more money for the tech companies.
In Aus Telstra are using the 700MHz band for 4G, so lower
frequencies to their 800MHz 3G band before. But even their new
phones that support that band worked better on 3G before it was
switched off (once you disabled 4G in the settings so they
wouldn't keep switching to 4G then lose it again a moment later).
No new towers either, just back to going outside and finding a
good spot to make a call, like it was before more towers were
built in the 2G/3G days.
Like I say, 4G is evidently a _less_ effective use of the spectrum.
I don't know about 5G, it's on lower frequencies too but I haven't
heard any suggestion that it has better coverage than 4G. Also
using 5G for voice calls is a new feature that's only on some phones/networks.
I use my landline instead (still an analogue line), but they're in
no hurry to fix that when it breaks these days because "everyone"
uses mobiles. Huff.
On 2025-12-14 21:39:28 +0000, Your Name said:No, it is because it is no longer proftable and that is not greed or laziness it is business.
On 2025-12-14 19:25:51 +0000, Mutley said:
Your Name <YourName@YourISP.com> wrote:
2degrees begins 3G shutdown
---------------------------
2degrees will start shutting off 3G services on December 14, the
telco has confirmed. 2degrees initially announced its intention
to decommission 3G in July 2023. The shutdown will remove the 3G
service from operation, and see Kiwi mobile users connected to
the more modern 4G and 5G networks.a
a
2degrees CEO Mark Callander says that 2degrees 3G services on
around 100 sites will be decommissioned this month - all of these
are part of the Rural Connectivity Group network.
a
"3G usage on RCG sites is actually rather small, with most people
connecting via 4G so the impact to anyone still using 3G to
connect in those areas is likely to be minimal. We have been
urging customers to get ready for this shutdown, and the time to
take action is now."
a
Callander said people can text '3G' to short code 550 for details
relating to their phone's 4G capability, with links to get more
information if they need to make changes.
a
"We have been repeatedly communicating with all impacted
customers, but human nature being what it is, some people will be
waiting until the last minute to upgrade an old device. Please
check your device, and replace it if you need to."
a
Callander said 2degrees started selling 4G handsets in 2018, and
has only sold 4G and 5G handsets since mid 2022. 4G devices start
from just $69.
a
He says that 2degrees has undertaken a major upgrade of its sites
over the past few years, enhancing 4G and adding 5G equipment.
a
"3G is an old technology now, and it's being closed down
internationally. The next generation of mobile services - 4G and
5G - are designed for modern mobile use, whether that's streaming,
video calls, or running multiple apps and programmes all requiring
data.
a
"Modern networks need to be faster, more resilient, and more
sustainable. 3G simply can't deliver the performance New Zealand
now relies on. By retiring this legacy technology, we can focus on
strengthening and expanding our 4G and 5G networks which carry the
vast majority of today's mobile traffic."
a
Callander urges people to check in with friends, whanau, neighbours
and colleagues, or anyone who may be using a 3G-reliant phone or
device like a tablet, medical alarm or security alarm, to make sure
they're ready for the transition.
a
Further 3G services will be decommissioned early in 2026, 2degrees
says.
a
Old devices can be recycled at 2degrees stores, or people can get
more information from RE:MOBILE at https://remobile.org.nz/a
<https://www.geekzone.co.nz/content.asp?contentid=27269>
They will all be shutdown by March 31.2026. I wonder how many phones
will stop working??
Not just phones, but also other things that use a 3G cellular
connection, such as cellular tablets, medical and security alarms, car
tracking devices, security cameras that upload directly to a server,
older cellular broadband modems/routers, etc.
But that's really just the tip of the iceberg for the wasteful
abandoning of devices. 1G and 2G are long gone, 3G is nearly gone, 4G
and 5G will be replaced by 6G (probably in 2030, although the older
version won't be shut down until a few years after that), and so on and
so on. The reality is that for most people's needs 3G or earlier is
prefectly fine, but the tech companies simply pushing newer tweaks to
force people into continually upgrading their devices - there's no real
reason, other than greed, that newer telecom equipment couldn't remain
backwards compatible with the older "G" versions. :-\
In fact, the standards are meant to be backwards compatible, to some
degree at least, but the lazy and greedy tech companies simply don't
want to continue supporting older standards because that won't
"encourage" telecoms companies and user to keep upgrading.
3G is backwards compatible with 2G
4G is backwards compatible with 3G and some 2G
4G+ is backwards compatible with 4G and 3G
5G is backwards compatible with 4G, 3G, and 2G
The same happens with wired connections - USB-A has become USB-C with
different sized incompatible plugs. Before that it was Parallel and
serial connections, as well as Apple's ADB, Lightning, and Firewire.
We still have a landline, but because New Zealand is shutting down the
copper lines, our landline is now through the internet connection, which
is through the 4G cellular.
It's a bit silly since if the internet goes down, so does the
landline ...
4G is backwards compatible with 3G and some 2G
The plain old telephone system has suffered the same fate - too few
paying customers to cover the cost of upgrading and maintaining all the telephone exchanges, so its all being switched off.
Your Name <YourName@YourISP.com> wrote:
On 2025-12-14 21:39:28 +0000, Your Name said:
On 2025-12-14 19:25:51 +0000, Mutley said:
Your Name <YourName@YourISP.com> wrote:
2degrees begins 3G shutdown
---------------------------
2degrees will start shutting off 3G services on December 14, the
telco has confirmed. 2degrees initially announced its intention
to decommission 3G in July 2023. The shutdown will remove the 3G
service from operation, and see Kiwi mobile users connected to
the more modern 4G and 5G networks.a
a
2degrees CEO Mark Callander says that 2degrees 3G services on
around 100 sites will be decommissioned this month - all of these
are part of the Rural Connectivity Group network.
a
"3G usage on RCG sites is actually rather small, with most people
connecting via 4G so the impact to anyone still using 3G to
connect in those areas is likely to be minimal. We have been
urging customers to get ready for this shutdown, and the time to
take action is now."
a
Callander said people can text '3G' to short code 550 for details
relating to their phone's 4G capability, with links to get more
information if they need to make changes.
a
"We have been repeatedly communicating with all impacted
customers, but human nature being what it is, some people will be
waiting until the last minute to upgrade an old device. Please
check your device, and replace it if you need to."
a
Callander said 2degrees started selling 4G handsets in 2018, and
has only sold 4G and 5G handsets since mid 2022. 4G devices start
from just $69.
a
He says that 2degrees has undertaken a major upgrade of its sites
over the past few years, enhancing 4G and adding 5G equipment.
a
"3G is an old technology now, and it's being closed down
internationally. The next generation of mobile services - 4G and
5G - are designed for modern mobile use, whether that's streaming,
video calls, or running multiple apps and programmes all requiring
data.
a
"Modern networks need to be faster, more resilient, and more
sustainable. 3G simply can't deliver the performance New Zealand
now relies on. By retiring this legacy technology, we can focus on
strengthening and expanding our 4G and 5G networks which carry the
vast majority of today's mobile traffic."
a
Callander urges people to check in with friends, whanau, neighbours
and colleagues, or anyone who may be using a 3G-reliant phone or
device like a tablet, medical alarm or security alarm, to make sure
they're ready for the transition.
a
Further 3G services will be decommissioned early in 2026, 2degrees
says.
a
Old devices can be recycled at 2degrees stores, or people can get
more information from RE:MOBILE at https://remobile.org.nz/a
<https://www.geekzone.co.nz/content.asp?contentid=27269>
They will all be shutdown by March 31.2026. I wonder how many phones >>>> will stop working??
Not just phones, but also other things that use a 3G cellular
connection, such as cellular tablets, medical and security alarms, car
tracking devices, security cameras that upload directly to a server,
older cellular broadband modems/routers, etc.
But that's really just the tip of the iceberg for the wasteful
abandoning of devices. 1G and 2G are long gone, 3G is nearly gone, 4G
and 5G will be replaced by 6G (probably in 2030, although the older
version won't be shut down until a few years after that), and so on and
so on. The reality is that for most people's needs 3G or earlier is
prefectly fine, but the tech companies simply pushing newer tweaks to
force people into continually upgrading their devices - there's no real
reason, other than greed, that newer telecom equipment couldn't remain
backwards compatible with the older "G" versions. :-\
In fact, the standards are meant to be backwards compatible, to some
degree at least, but the lazy and greedy tech companies simply don't
want to continue supporting older standards because that won't
"encourage" telecoms companies and user to keep upgrading.
No, it is because it is no longer proftable and that is not greed or laziness it is business.
3G is backwards compatible with 2G
4G is backwards compatible with 3G and some 2G
4G+ is backwards compatible with 4G and 3G
5G is backwards compatible with 4G, 3G, and 2G
The same happens with wired connections - USB-A has become USB-C with
different sized incompatible plugs. Before that it was Parallel and
serial connections, as well as Apple's ADB, Lightning, and Firewire.
On Mon, 15 Dec 2025 18:19:46 +1300, Your Name wrote:
We still have a landline, but because New Zealand is shutting down the
copper lines, our landline is now through the internet connection, which
is through the 4G cellular.
I have my landline via fibre, but not through my Internet provider. My Internet access is done through another provider (also via the same
fibre).
It's a bit silly since if the internet goes down, so does the landline ...
What I worry about is inability to make emergency calls if/when the power goes out.
On Mon, 15 Dec 2025 15:04:46 +1300, David Goodwin wrote:
The plain old telephone system has suffered the same fate - too few
paying customers to cover the cost of upgrading and maintaining all the
telephone exchanges, so its all being switched off.
I still have landline POTS service. The difference is itrCOs now over fibre. It is the physical copper cabling that is being retired.
On 2025-12-15 07:41:53 +0000, Lawrence D-|Oliveiro said:
I have my landline via fibre, but not through my Internet provider. My
Internet access is done through another provider (also via the same
fibre).
It's cheaper to bundle the landline and internet together, rather than
pay two providers for basically the same service.
What I worry about is inability to make emergency calls if/when the power
goes out.
That was still a problem in ye old days of copper lines - the phone
still had to have power via that copper wire, as did (and still do) the roadside cabinets and exchanges.
On 2025-12-15 07:47:54 +0000, Lawrence D-|Oliveiro said:
It is the physical copper cabling that is being retired.
"Retired", but usually left in place in the case of underground lines.
Maybe they'll bother to pull it out whenever they have to dig holes for
some other reason, but I wouldn't bet on it.
On Tue, 16 Dec 2025 10:47:21 +1300, Your Name wrote:
On 2025-12-15 07:41:53 +0000, Lawrence D-|Oliveiro said:
I have my landline via fibre, but not through my Internet provider. My
Internet access is done through another provider (also via the same
fibre).
It's cheaper to bundle the landline and internet together, rather than
pay two providers for basically the same service.
ItrCOs two different services, and I have the flexibility to do it my way.
What I worry about is inability to make emergency calls if/when the power >>> goes out.
That was still a problem in ye old days of copper lines - the phone
still had to have power via that copper wire, as did (and still do) the
roadside cabinets and exchanges.
Which were powered independently from my home.
On Tue, 16 Dec 2025 10:50:01 +1300, Your Name wrote:
On 2025-12-15 07:47:54 +0000, Lawrence D-|Oliveiro said:
It is the physical copper cabling that is being retired.
"Retired", but usually left in place in the case of underground lines.
Maybe they'll bother to pull it out whenever they have to dig holes for
some other reason, but I wouldn't bet on it.
ItrCOs worth money.
On 2025-12-15 06:16:52 +0000, Tony said:A profit motive is not greed. Quite the reverse in fact.
Your Name <YourName@YourISP.com> wrote:
On 2025-12-14 21:39:28 +0000, Your Name said:
On 2025-12-14 19:25:51 +0000, Mutley said:
Your Name <YourName@YourISP.com> wrote:
2degrees begins 3G shutdown
---------------------------
2degrees will start shutting off 3G services on December 14, the
telco has confirmed. 2degrees initially announced its intention
to decommission 3G in July 2023. The shutdown will remove the 3G
service from operation, and see Kiwi mobile users connected to
the more modern 4G and 5G networks.a
a
2degrees CEO Mark Callander says that 2degrees 3G services on
around 100 sites will be decommissioned this month - all of these
are part of the Rural Connectivity Group network.
a
"3G usage on RCG sites is actually rather small, with most people
connecting via 4G so the impact to anyone still using 3G to
connect in those areas is likely to be minimal. We have been
urging customers to get ready for this shutdown, and the time to
take action is now."
a
Callander said people can text '3G' to short code 550 for details
relating to their phone's 4G capability, with links to get more
information if they need to make changes.
a
"We have been repeatedly communicating with all impacted
customers, but human nature being what it is, some people will be
waiting until the last minute to upgrade an old device. Please
check your device, and replace it if you need to."
a
Callander said 2degrees started selling 4G handsets in 2018, and
has only sold 4G and 5G handsets since mid 2022. 4G devices start
from just $69.
a
He says that 2degrees has undertaken a major upgrade of its sites
over the past few years, enhancing 4G and adding 5G equipment.
a
"3G is an old technology now, and it's being closed down
internationally. The next generation of mobile services - 4G and
5G - are designed for modern mobile use, whether that's streaming, >>>>>> video calls, or running multiple apps and programmes all requiring >>>>>> data.
a
"Modern networks need to be faster, more resilient, and more
sustainable. 3G simply can't deliver the performance New Zealand
now relies on. By retiring this legacy technology, we can focus on >>>>>> strengthening and expanding our 4G and 5G networks which carry the >>>>>> vast majority of today's mobile traffic."
a
Callander urges people to check in with friends, whanau, neighbours >>>>>> and colleagues, or anyone who may be using a 3G-reliant phone or
device like a tablet, medical alarm or security alarm, to make sure >>>>>> they're ready for the transition.
a
Further 3G services will be decommissioned early in 2026, 2degrees >>>>>> says.
a
Old devices can be recycled at 2degrees stores, or people can get
more information from RE:MOBILE at https://remobile.org.nz/a
<https://www.geekzone.co.nz/content.asp?contentid=27269>
They will all be shutdown by March 31.2026. I wonder how many phones >>>>> will stop working??
Not just phones, but also other things that use a 3G cellular
connection, such as cellular tablets, medical and security alarms, car >>>> tracking devices, security cameras that upload directly to a server,
older cellular broadband modems/routers, etc.
But that's really just the tip of the iceberg for the wasteful
abandoning of devices. 1G and 2G are long gone, 3G is nearly gone, 4G
and 5G will be replaced by 6G (probably in 2030, although the older
version won't be shut down until a few years after that), and so on and >>>> so on. The reality is that for most people's needs 3G or earlier is
prefectly fine, but the tech companies simply pushing newer tweaks to
force people into continually upgrading their devices - there's no real >>>> reason, other than greed, that newer telecom equipment couldn't remain >>>> backwards compatible with the older "G" versions. :-\
In fact, the standards are meant to be backwards compatible, to some
degree at least, but the lazy and greedy tech companies simply don't
want to continue supporting older standards because that won't
"encourage" telecoms companies and user to keep upgrading.
No, it is because it is no longer proftable and that is not greed or laziness
it is business.
That's what I said, "greedy tech companies". :-p
3G is backwards compatible with 2G
4G is backwards compatible with 3G and some 2G
4G+ is backwards compatible with 4G and 3G
5G is backwards compatible with 4G, 3G, and 2G
The same happens with wired connections - USB-A has become USB-C with
different sized incompatible plugs. Before that it was Parallel and
serial connections, as well as Apple's ADB, Lightning, and Firewire.
On 2025-12-14 19:25:51 +0000, Mutley said:
Your Name <YourName@YourISP.com> wrote:
2degrees begins 3G shutdown
---------------------------
2degrees will start shutting off 3G services on December 14, the
telco has confirmed. 2degrees initially announced its intention
to decommission 3G in July 2023. The shutdown will remove the 3G
service from operation, and see Kiwi mobile users connected to
the more modern 4G and 5G networks.a
a
2degrees CEO Mark Callander says that 2degrees 3G services on
around 100 sites will be decommissioned this month - all of these
are part of the Rural Connectivity Group network.
a
"3G usage on RCG sites is actually rather small, with most people
connecting via 4G so the impact to anyone still using 3G to
connect in those areas is likely to be minimal. We have been
urging customers to get ready for this shutdown, and the time to
take action is now."
a
Callander said people can text '3G' to short code 550 for details
relating to their phone's 4G capability, with links to get more
information if they need to make changes.
a
"We have been repeatedly communicating with all impacted
customers, but human nature being what it is, some people will be
waiting until the last minute to upgrade an old device. Please
check your device, and replace it if you need to."
a
Callander said 2degrees started selling 4G handsets in 2018, and
has only sold 4G and 5G handsets since mid 2022. 4G devices start
from just $69.
a
He says that 2degrees has undertaken a major upgrade of its sites
over the past few years, enhancing 4G and adding 5G equipment.
a
"3G is an old technology now, and it's being closed down
internationally. The next generation of mobile services - 4G and
5G - are designed for modern mobile use, whether that's streaming,
video calls, or running multiple apps and programmes all requiring
data.
a
"Modern networks need to be faster, more resilient, and more
sustainable. 3G simply can't deliver the performance New Zealand
now relies on. By retiring this legacy technology, we can focus on
strengthening and expanding our 4G and 5G networks which carry the
vast majority of today's mobile traffic."
a
Callander urges people to check in with friends, whanau, neighbours
and colleagues, or anyone who may be using a 3G-reliant phone or
device like a tablet, medical alarm or security alarm, to make sure
they're ready for the transition.
a
Further 3G services will be decommissioned early in 2026, 2degrees
says.
a
Old devices can be recycled at 2degrees stores, or people can get
more information from RE:MOBILE at https://remobile.org.nz/a
<https://www.geekzone.co.nz/content.asp?contentid=27269>
They will all be shutdown by March 31.2026. I wonder how many phones
will stop working??
Not just phones, but also other things that use a 3G cellular
connection, such as cellular tablets, medical and security alarms, car >tracking devices, security cameras that upload directly to a server,
older cellular broadband modems/routers, etc.
But that's really just the tip of the iceberg for the wasteful
abandoning of devices. 1G and 2G are long gone, 3G is nearly gone, 4G
and 5G will be replaced by 6G (probably in 2030, although the older
version won't be shut down until a few years after that), and so on and
so on. The reality is that for most people's needs 3G or earlier is >prefectly fine, but the tech companies simply pushing newer tweaks to
force people into continually upgrading their devices - there's no real >reason, other than greed, that newer telecom equipment couldn't remain >backwards compatible with the older "G" versions. :-\
The same happens with wired connections - USB-A has become USB-C with >different sized incompatible plugs. Before that it was Parallel and
serial connections, as well as Apple's ADB, Lightning, and Firewire.
Your Name <YourName@YourISP.com> wrote:
On 2025-12-15 06:16:52 +0000, Tony said:
Your Name <YourName@YourISP.com> wrote:
On 2025-12-14 21:39:28 +0000, Your Name said:
On 2025-12-14 19:25:51 +0000, Mutley said:
Your Name <YourName@YourISP.com> wrote:
2degrees begins 3G shutdown
---------------------------
2degrees will start shutting off 3G services on December 14, the >>>>>>> telco has confirmed. 2degrees initially announced its intention
to decommission 3G in July 2023. The shutdown will remove the 3G >>>>>>> service from operation, and see Kiwi mobile users connected to
the more modern 4G and 5G networks.a
a
2degrees CEO Mark Callander says that 2degrees 3G services on
around 100 sites will be decommissioned this month - all of these >>>>>>> are part of the Rural Connectivity Group network.
a
"3G usage on RCG sites is actually rather small, with most people >>>>>>> connecting via 4G so the impact to anyone still using 3G to
connect in those areas is likely to be minimal. We have been
urging customers to get ready for this shutdown, and the time to >>>>>>> take action is now."
a
Callander said people can text '3G' to short code 550 for details >>>>>>> relating to their phone's 4G capability, with links to get more
information if they need to make changes.
a
"We have been repeatedly communicating with all impacted
customers, but human nature being what it is, some people will be >>>>>>> waiting until the last minute to upgrade an old device. Please
check your device, and replace it if you need to."
a
Callander said 2degrees started selling 4G handsets in 2018, and >>>>>>> has only sold 4G and 5G handsets since mid 2022. 4G devices start >>>>>>> from just $69.
a
He says that 2degrees has undertaken a major upgrade of its sites >>>>>>> over the past few years, enhancing 4G and adding 5G equipment.
a
"3G is an old technology now, and it's being closed down
internationally. The next generation of mobile services - 4G and >>>>>>> 5G - are designed for modern mobile use, whether that's streaming, >>>>>>> video calls, or running multiple apps and programmes all requiring >>>>>>> data.
a
"Modern networks need to be faster, more resilient, and more
sustainable. 3G simply can't deliver the performance New Zealand >>>>>>> now relies on. By retiring this legacy technology, we can focus on >>>>>>> strengthening and expanding our 4G and 5G networks which carry the >>>>>>> vast majority of today's mobile traffic."
a
Callander urges people to check in with friends, whanau, neighbours >>>>>>> and colleagues, or anyone who may be using a 3G-reliant phone or >>>>>>> device like a tablet, medical alarm or security alarm, to make sure >>>>>>> they're ready for the transition.
a
Further 3G services will be decommissioned early in 2026, 2degrees >>>>>>> says.
a
Old devices can be recycled at 2degrees stores, or people can get >>>>>>> more information from RE:MOBILE at https://remobile.org.nz/a
<https://www.geekzone.co.nz/content.asp?contentid=27269>
They will all be shutdown by March 31.2026. I wonder how many phones >>>>>> will stop working??
Not just phones, but also other things that use a 3G cellular
connection, such as cellular tablets, medical and security alarms, car >>>>> tracking devices, security cameras that upload directly to a server, >>>>> older cellular broadband modems/routers, etc.
But that's really just the tip of the iceberg for the wasteful
abandoning of devices. 1G and 2G are long gone, 3G is nearly gone, 4G >>>>> and 5G will be replaced by 6G (probably in 2030, although the older
version won't be shut down until a few years after that), and so on and >>>>> so on. The reality is that for most people's needs 3G or earlier is
prefectly fine, but the tech companies simply pushing newer tweaks to >>>>> force people into continually upgrading their devices - there's no real >>>>> reason, other than greed, that newer telecom equipment couldn't remain >>>>> backwards compatible with the older "G" versions. :-\
In fact, the standards are meant to be backwards compatible, to some
degree at least, but the lazy and greedy tech companies simply don't
want to continue supporting older standards because that won't
"encourage" telecoms companies and user to keep upgrading.
No, it is because it is no longer proftable and that is not greed or
laziness it is business.
That's what I said, "greedy tech companies". :-p
A profit motive is not greed. Quite the reverse in fact.
What I said and what you said are in no way the same thing.
3G is backwards compatible with 2G
4G is backwards compatible with 3G and some 2G
4G+ is backwards compatible with 4G and 3G
5G is backwards compatible with 4G, 3G, and 2G
The same happens with wired connections - USB-A has become USB-C with >>>>> different sized incompatible plugs. Before that it was Parallel and
serial connections, as well as Apple's ADB, Lightning, and Firewire.
Your Name <YourName@YourISP.com> wrote:
On 2025-12-14 19:25:51 +0000, Mutley said:
Your Name <YourName@YourISP.com> wrote:
2degrees begins 3G shutdown
---------------------------
2degrees will start shutting off 3G services on December 14, the
telco has confirmed. 2degrees initially announced its intention
to decommission 3G in July 2023. The shutdown will remove the 3G
service from operation, and see Kiwi mobile users connected to
the more modern 4G and 5G networks.a
a
2degrees CEO Mark Callander says that 2degrees 3G services on
around 100 sites will be decommissioned this month - all of these
are part of the Rural Connectivity Group network.
a
"3G usage on RCG sites is actually rather small, with most people
connecting via 4G so the impact to anyone still using 3G to
connect in those areas is likely to be minimal. We have been
urging customers to get ready for this shutdown, and the time to
take action is now."
a
Callander said people can text '3G' to short code 550 for details
relating to their phone's 4G capability, with links to get more
information if they need to make changes.
a
"We have been repeatedly communicating with all impacted
customers, but human nature being what it is, some people will be
waiting until the last minute to upgrade an old device. Please
check your device, and replace it if you need to."
a
Callander said 2degrees started selling 4G handsets in 2018, and
has only sold 4G and 5G handsets since mid 2022. 4G devices start
from just $69.
a
He says that 2degrees has undertaken a major upgrade of its sites
over the past few years, enhancing 4G and adding 5G equipment.
a
"3G is an old technology now, and it's being closed down
internationally. The next generation of mobile services - 4G and
5G - are designed for modern mobile use, whether that's streaming,
video calls, or running multiple apps and programmes all requiring
data.
a
"Modern networks need to be faster, more resilient, and more
sustainable. 3G simply can't deliver the performance New Zealand
now relies on. By retiring this legacy technology, we can focus on
strengthening and expanding our 4G and 5G networks which carry the
vast majority of today's mobile traffic."
a
Callander urges people to check in with friends, whanau, neighbours
and colleagues, or anyone who may be using a 3G-reliant phone or
device like a tablet, medical alarm or security alarm, to make sure
they're ready for the transition.
a
Further 3G services will be decommissioned early in 2026, 2degrees
says.
a
Old devices can be recycled at 2degrees stores, or people can get
more information from RE:MOBILE at https://remobile.org.nz/a
<https://www.geekzone.co.nz/content.asp?contentid=27269>
They will all be shutdown by March 31.2026. I wonder how many phones
will stop working??
Not just phones, but also other things that use a 3G cellular
connection, such as cellular tablets, medical and security alarms, car
tracking devices, security cameras that upload directly to a server,
older cellular broadband modems/routers, etc.
But that's really just the tip of the iceberg for the wasteful
abandoning of devices. 1G and 2G are long gone, 3G is nearly gone, 4G
and 5G will be replaced by 6G (probably in 2030, although the older
version won't be shut down until a few years after that), and so on and
so on. The reality is that for most people's needs 3G or earlier is
prefectly fine, but the tech companies simply pushing newer tweaks to
force people into continually upgrading their devices - there's no real
reason, other than greed, that newer telecom equipment couldn't remain
backwards compatible with the older "G" versions. :-\
The same happens with wired connections - USB-A has become USB-C with
different sized incompatible plugs. Before that it was Parallel and
serial connections, as well as Apple's ADB, Lightning, and Firewire.
Did you complain when 2D and Vodafone turned off GSM / 2G coverage??
On 2025-12-16 00:09:00 +0000, Tony said:No, greed and profit are not related unless the profit is achieved using poor practices like dishonesty or poor treatment of employees etc. Otherwise all is fair and reasonable and not at all greedy.
Your Name <YourName@YourISP.com> wrote:
On 2025-12-15 06:16:52 +0000, Tony said:
Your Name <YourName@YourISP.com> wrote:
On 2025-12-14 21:39:28 +0000, Your Name said:
On 2025-12-14 19:25:51 +0000, Mutley said:
Your Name <YourName@YourISP.com> wrote:
2degrees begins 3G shutdown
---------------------------
2degrees will start shutting off 3G services on December 14, the >>>>>>>> telco has confirmed. 2degrees initially announced its intention >>>>>>>> to decommission 3G in July 2023. The shutdown will remove the 3G >>>>>>>> service from operation, and see Kiwi mobile users connected to >>>>>>>> the more modern 4G and 5G networks.a
a
2degrees CEO Mark Callander says that 2degrees 3G services on
around 100 sites will be decommissioned this month - all of these >>>>>>>> are part of the Rural Connectivity Group network.
a
"3G usage on RCG sites is actually rather small, with most people >>>>>>>> connecting via 4G so the impact to anyone still using 3G to
connect in those areas is likely to be minimal. We have been
urging customers to get ready for this shutdown, and the time to >>>>>>>> take action is now."
a
Callander said people can text '3G' to short code 550 for details >>>>>>>> relating to their phone's 4G capability, with links to get more >>>>>>>> information if they need to make changes.
a
"We have been repeatedly communicating with all impacted
customers, but human nature being what it is, some people will be >>>>>>>> waiting until the last minute to upgrade an old device. Please >>>>>>>> check your device, and replace it if you need to."
a
Callander said 2degrees started selling 4G handsets in 2018, and >>>>>>>> has only sold 4G and 5G handsets since mid 2022. 4G devices start >>>>>>>> from just $69.
a
He says that 2degrees has undertaken a major upgrade of its sites >>>>>>>> over the past few years, enhancing 4G and adding 5G equipment. >>>>>>>> a
"3G is an old technology now, and it's being closed down
internationally. The next generation of mobile services - 4G and >>>>>>>> 5G - are designed for modern mobile use, whether that's streaming, >>>>>>>> video calls, or running multiple apps and programmes all requiring >>>>>>>> data.
a
"Modern networks need to be faster, more resilient, and more
sustainable. 3G simply can't deliver the performance New Zealand >>>>>>>> now relies on. By retiring this legacy technology, we can focus on >>>>>>>> strengthening and expanding our 4G and 5G networks which carry the >>>>>>>> vast majority of today's mobile traffic."
a
Callander urges people to check in with friends, whanau, neighbours >>>>>>>> and colleagues, or anyone who may be using a 3G-reliant phone or >>>>>>>> device like a tablet, medical alarm or security alarm, to make sure >>>>>>>> they're ready for the transition.
a
Further 3G services will be decommissioned early in 2026, 2degrees >>>>>>>> says.
a
Old devices can be recycled at 2degrees stores, or people can get >>>>>>>> more information from RE:MOBILE at https://remobile.org.nz/a
<https://www.geekzone.co.nz/content.asp?contentid=27269>
They will all be shutdown by March 31.2026. I wonder how many phones >>>>>>> will stop working??
Not just phones, but also other things that use a 3G cellular
connection, such as cellular tablets, medical and security alarms, car >>>>>> tracking devices, security cameras that upload directly to a server, >>>>>> older cellular broadband modems/routers, etc.
But that's really just the tip of the iceberg for the wasteful
abandoning of devices. 1G and 2G are long gone, 3G is nearly gone, 4G >>>>>> and 5G will be replaced by 6G (probably in 2030, although the older >>>>>> version won't be shut down until a few years after that), and so on and >>>>>> so on. The reality is that for most people's needs 3G or earlier is >>>>>> prefectly fine, but the tech companies simply pushing newer tweaks to >>>>>> force people into continually upgrading their devices - there's no real >>>>>> reason, other than greed, that newer telecom equipment couldn't remain >>>>>> backwards compatible with the older "G" versions. :-\
In fact, the standards are meant to be backwards compatible, to some >>>>> degree at least, but the lazy and greedy tech companies simply don't >>>>> want to continue supporting older standards because that won't
"encourage" telecoms companies and user to keep upgrading.
No, it is because it is no longer proftable and that is not greed or
laziness it is business.
That's what I said, "greedy tech companies". :-p
A profit motive is not greed. Quite the reverse in fact.
What I said and what you said are in no way the same thing.
Profit and greed are related.
Sensible profit is not greed.Define excessive profit if you can.
Excessive profit *is* greed - pure and simple.
Pretty much all "big business" companies are driven by greed - you
simply have to look at the multi-million dollar profits (after
expenses!) that they rake in.
3G is backwards compatible with 2G
4G is backwards compatible with 3G and some 2G
4G+ is backwards compatible with 4G and 3G
5G is backwards compatible with 4G, 3G, and 2G
The same happens with wired connections - USB-A has become USB-C with >>>>>> different sized incompatible plugs. Before that it was Parallel and >>>>>> serial connections, as well as Apple's ADB, Lightning, and Firewire.
Your Name <YourName@YourISP.com> wrote:
On 2025-12-16 00:09:00 +0000, Tony said:No, greed and profit are not related unless the profit is achieved using poor practices like dishonesty or poor treatment of employees etc. Otherwise all is
Your Name <YourName@YourISP.com> wrote:
On 2025-12-15 06:16:52 +0000, Tony said:
Your Name <YourName@YourISP.com> wrote:
On 2025-12-14 21:39:28 +0000, Your Name said:
On 2025-12-14 19:25:51 +0000, Mutley said:
Your Name <YourName@YourISP.com> wrote:
2degrees begins 3G shutdown
---------------------------
2degrees will start shutting off 3G services on December 14, the >>>>>>>>> telco has confirmed. 2degrees initially announced its intention >>>>>>>>> to decommission 3G in July 2023. The shutdown will remove the 3G >>>>>>>>> service from operation, and see Kiwi mobile users connected to >>>>>>>>> the more modern 4G and 5G networks.a
a
2degrees CEO Mark Callander says that 2degrees 3G services on >>>>>>>>> around 100 sites will be decommissioned this month - all of these >>>>>>>>> are part of the Rural Connectivity Group network.
a
"3G usage on RCG sites is actually rather small, with most people >>>>>>>>> connecting via 4G so the impact to anyone still using 3G to
connect in those areas is likely to be minimal. We have been >>>>>>>>> urging customers to get ready for this shutdown, and the time to >>>>>>>>> take action is now."
a
Callander said people can text '3G' to short code 550 for details >>>>>>>>> relating to their phone's 4G capability, with links to get more >>>>>>>>> information if they need to make changes.
a
"We have been repeatedly communicating with all impacted
customers, but human nature being what it is, some people will be >>>>>>>>> waiting until the last minute to upgrade an old device. Please >>>>>>>>> check your device, and replace it if you need to."
a
Callander said 2degrees started selling 4G handsets in 2018, and >>>>>>>>> has only sold 4G and 5G handsets since mid 2022. 4G devices start >>>>>>>>> from just $69.
a
He says that 2degrees has undertaken a major upgrade of its sites >>>>>>>>> over the past few years, enhancing 4G and adding 5G equipment. >>>>>>>>> a
"3G is an old technology now, and it's being closed down
internationally. The next generation of mobile services - 4G and >>>>>>>>> 5G - are designed for modern mobile use, whether that's streaming, >>>>>>>>> video calls, or running multiple apps and programmes all requiring >>>>>>>>> data.
a
"Modern networks need to be faster, more resilient, and more >>>>>>>>> sustainable. 3G simply can't deliver the performance New Zealand >>>>>>>>> now relies on. By retiring this legacy technology, we can focus on >>>>>>>>> strengthening and expanding our 4G and 5G networks which carry the >>>>>>>>> vast majority of today's mobile traffic."
a
Callander urges people to check in with friends, whanau, neighbours >>>>>>>>> and colleagues, or anyone who may be using a 3G-reliant phone or >>>>>>>>> device like a tablet, medical alarm or security alarm, to make sure >>>>>>>>> they're ready for the transition.
a
Further 3G services will be decommissioned early in 2026, 2degrees >>>>>>>>> says.
a
Old devices can be recycled at 2degrees stores, or people can get >>>>>>>>> more information from RE:MOBILE at https://remobile.org.nz/a >>>>>>>>>
<https://www.geekzone.co.nz/content.asp?contentid=27269>
They will all be shutdown by March 31.2026. I wonder how many phones >>>>>>>> will stop working??
Not just phones, but also other things that use a 3G cellular
connection, such as cellular tablets, medical and security alarms, car >>>>>>> tracking devices, security cameras that upload directly to a server, >>>>>>> older cellular broadband modems/routers, etc.
But that's really just the tip of the iceberg for the wasteful
abandoning of devices. 1G and 2G are long gone, 3G is nearly gone, 4G >>>>>>> and 5G will be replaced by 6G (probably in 2030, although the older >>>>>>> version won't be shut down until a few years after that), and so on and >>>>>>> so on. The reality is that for most people's needs 3G or earlier is >>>>>>> prefectly fine, but the tech companies simply pushing newer tweaks to >>>>>>> force people into continually upgrading their devices - there's no real >>>>>>> reason, other than greed, that newer telecom equipment couldn't remain >>>>>>> backwards compatible with the older "G" versions. :-\
In fact, the standards are meant to be backwards compatible, to some >>>>>> degree at least, but the lazy and greedy tech companies simply don't >>>>>> want to continue supporting older standards because that won't
"encourage" telecoms companies and user to keep upgrading.
No, it is because it is no longer proftable and that is not greed or >>>>> laziness it is business.
That's what I said, "greedy tech companies". :-p
A profit motive is not greed. Quite the reverse in fact.
What I said and what you said are in no way the same thing.
Profit and greed are related.
fair and reasonable and not at all greedy.
Define excessive profit if you can.
Sensible profit is not greed.
Excessive profit *is* greed - pure and simple.
Making large profits is not greedy, see above.
Pretty much all "big business" companies are driven by greed - you
simply have to look at the multi-million dollar profits (after
expenses!) that they rake in.
3G is backwards compatible with 2G
4G is backwards compatible with 3G and some 2G
4G+ is backwards compatible with 4G and 3G
5G is backwards compatible with 4G, 3G, and 2G
The same happens with wired connections - USB-A has become USB-C with >>>>>>> different sized incompatible plugs. Before that it was Parallel and >>>>>>> serial connections, as well as Apple's ADB, Lightning, and Firewire.
On 2025-12-16 06:25:09 +0000, Tony said:
Your Name <YourName@YourISP.com> wrote:
On 2025-12-16 00:09:00 +0000, Tony said:No, greed and profit are not related unless the profit is achieved using poor
Your Name <YourName@YourISP.com> wrote:
On 2025-12-15 06:16:52 +0000, Tony said:
Your Name <YourName@YourISP.com> wrote:
On 2025-12-14 21:39:28 +0000, Your Name said:
On 2025-12-14 19:25:51 +0000, Mutley said:
Your Name <YourName@YourISP.com> wrote:
2degrees begins 3G shutdown
---------------------------
2degrees will start shutting off 3G services on December 14, the >>>>>>>>>> telco has confirmed. 2degrees initially announced its intention >>>>>>>>>> to decommission 3G in July 2023. The shutdown will remove the 3G >>>>>>>>>> service from operation, and see Kiwi mobile users connected to >>>>>>>>>> the more modern 4G and 5G networks.a
a
2degrees CEO Mark Callander says that 2degrees 3G services on >>>>>>>>>> around 100 sites will be decommissioned this month - all of these >>>>>>>>>> are part of the Rural Connectivity Group network.
a
"3G usage on RCG sites is actually rather small, with most people >>>>>>>>>> connecting via 4G so the impact to anyone still using 3G to >>>>>>>>>> connect in those areas is likely to be minimal. We have been >>>>>>>>>> urging customers to get ready for this shutdown, and the time to >>>>>>>>>> take action is now."
a
Callander said people can text '3G' to short code 550 for details >>>>>>>>>> relating to their phone's 4G capability, with links to get more >>>>>>>>>> information if they need to make changes.
a
"We have been repeatedly communicating with all impacted
customers, but human nature being what it is, some people will be >>>>>>>>>> waiting until the last minute to upgrade an old device. Please >>>>>>>>>> check your device, and replace it if you need to."
a
Callander said 2degrees started selling 4G handsets in 2018, and >>>>>>>>>> has only sold 4G and 5G handsets since mid 2022. 4G devices start >>>>>>>>>> from just $69.
a
He says that 2degrees has undertaken a major upgrade of its sites >>>>>>>>>> over the past few years, enhancing 4G and adding 5G equipment. >>>>>>>>>> a
"3G is an old technology now, and it's being closed down
internationally. The next generation of mobile services - 4G and >>>>>>>>>> 5G - are designed for modern mobile use, whether that's streaming, >>>>>>>>>> video calls, or running multiple apps and programmes all requiring >>>>>>>>>> data.
a
"Modern networks need to be faster, more resilient, and more >>>>>>>>>> sustainable. 3G simply can't deliver the performance New Zealand >>>>>>>>>> now relies on. By retiring this legacy technology, we can focus on >>>>>>>>>> strengthening and expanding our 4G and 5G networks which carry the >>>>>>>>>> vast majority of today's mobile traffic."
a
Callander urges people to check in with friends, whanau, neighbours >>>>>>>>>> and colleagues, or anyone who may be using a 3G-reliant phone or >>>>>>>>>> device like a tablet, medical alarm or security alarm, to make sure >>>>>>>>>> they're ready for the transition.
a
Further 3G services will be decommissioned early in 2026, 2degrees >>>>>>>>>> says.
a
Old devices can be recycled at 2degrees stores, or people can get >>>>>>>>>> more information from RE:MOBILE at https://remobile.org.nz/a >>>>>>>>>>
<https://www.geekzone.co.nz/content.asp?contentid=27269>
They will all be shutdown by March 31.2026. I wonder how many phones
will stop working??
Not just phones, but also other things that use a 3G cellular
connection, such as cellular tablets, medical and security alarms, car >>>>>>>> tracking devices, security cameras that upload directly to a server, >>>>>>>> older cellular broadband modems/routers, etc.
But that's really just the tip of the iceberg for the wasteful >>>>>>>> abandoning of devices. 1G and 2G are long gone, 3G is nearly gone, 4G >>>>>>>> and 5G will be replaced by 6G (probably in 2030, although the older >>>>>>>> version won't be shut down until a few years after that), and so on and
so on. The reality is that for most people's needs 3G or earlier is >>>>>>>> prefectly fine, but the tech companies simply pushing newer tweaks to >>>>>>>> force people into continually upgrading their devices - there's no real
reason, other than greed, that newer telecom equipment couldn't remain >>>>>>>> backwards compatible with the older "G" versions. :-\
In fact, the standards are meant to be backwards compatible, to some >>>>>>> degree at least, but the lazy and greedy tech companies simply don't >>>>>>> want to continue supporting older standards because that won't
"encourage" telecoms companies and user to keep upgrading.
No, it is because it is no longer proftable and that is not greed or >>>>>> laziness it is business.
That's what I said, "greedy tech companies". :-p
A profit motive is not greed. Quite the reverse in fact.
What I said and what you said are in no way the same thing.
Profit and greed are related.
practices like dishonesty or poor treatment of employees etc. Otherwise all >>is
fair and reasonable and not at all greedy.
Define excessive profit if you can.
Sensible profit is not greed.
Excessive profit *is* greed - pure and simple.
Making large profits is not greedy, see above.
Pretty much all "big business" companies are driven by greed - you
simply have to look at the multi-million dollar profits (after
expenses!) that they rake in.
Believe whatever you want - you will anyway. :-\
3G is backwards compatible with 2G
4G is backwards compatible with 3G and some 2G
4G+ is backwards compatible with 4G and 3G
5G is backwards compatible with 4G, 3G, and 2G
The same happens with wired connections - USB-A has become USB-C with >>>>>>>> different sized incompatible plugs. Before that it was Parallel and >>>>>>>> serial connections, as well as Apple's ADB, Lightning, and Firewire.
Sensible profit is not greed.
Excessive profit *is* greed - pure and simple.
On 2025-12-15 22:50:17 +0000, Lawrence D'Oliveiro said:
On Tue, 16 Dec 2025 10:47:21 +1300, Your Name wrote:
On 2025-12-15 07:41:53 +0000, Lawrence D'Oliveiro said:
What I worry about is inability to make emergency calls if/when the power >>>> goes out.
That was still a problem in ye old days of copper lines - the phone
still had to have power via that copper wire, as did (and still do) the
roadside cabinets and exchanges.
Which were powered independently from my home.
It depends on where the power outage is. If the whole street is out,
then the street-side cabinet or local exchange were likely to be too (although bigger ones sometimes had their own generators to start up).
On 2025-12-15 07:47:54 +0000, Lawrence D-|Oliveiro said:
On Mon, 15 Dec 2025 15:04:46 +1300, David Goodwin wrote:
The plain old telephone system has suffered the same fate - too few
paying customers to cover the cost of upgrading and maintaining all the
telephone exchanges, so its all being switched off.
I still have landline POTS service. The difference is itrCOs now over fibre. >> It is the physical copper cabling that is being retired.
"Retired", but usually left in place in the case of underground lines. Maybe they'll bother to pull
it out whenever they have to dig holes for some other reason, but I wouldn't bet on it.
On 16/12/2025 10:50 am, Your Name wrote:
On 2025-12-15 07:47:54 +0000, Lawrence D-|Oliveiro said:There are still a lot pf rural people using ADSL / VDSL who need the copper.
On Mon, 15 Dec 2025 15:04:46 +1300, David Goodwin wrote:
The plain old telephone system has suffered the same fate - too few
paying customers to cover the cost of upgrading and maintaining all the >>>> telephone exchanges, so its all being switched off.
I still have landline POTS service. The difference is itrCOs now over fibre.
It is the physical copper cabling that is being retired.
"Retired", but usually left in place in the case of underground lines.
Maybe they'll bother to pull it out whenever they have to dig holes for
some other reason, but I wouldn't bet on it.
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