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, 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 2025-12-14 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 2025-12-14 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.
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 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.
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.
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 2025-12-15 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 2025-12-15, 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.
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
It has to be this way to allow allusers to continue to have service as everyoe transistions to the " new and improved system".
Airwave bandwidth is also a limited resource, it needs to needs shared.
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 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.
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