In 2025, many mobile phone providers will be shutting down their 3G services.

In 2025, many mobile phone providers will be shutting down their 3G services. The reason they are doing so is because they want to focus their services on 4G and 5G, which are successors to 3G, which is a much older generation of cellular technology. 4G and 5G are a lot speedier and have much bigger and better capabilities than 3G. While it's bittersweet to be saying goodbye to 3G, which paved the way for the advancement of social media and other digital spaces, we are excited for the future that 4G and 5G are paving the way for. 

With the shutdown of 3G, NZ Compare wants to remind Kiwis that you may need to upgrade your phone. Here is how you can check if you need to upgrade:

Make Sure You Have a VoLTE Capable Phone

If you have a phone that is VoLTE capable of 4G or 4G/ 5G, check that it isn’t locked to 3G. There are a couple of ways to check this. You can follow these steps: 

1. Go into the phone settings
2. Check the mobile network is on ‘Auto’ or the 4G/5G and VoLTE toggle is on. 

OR

Simple check the phone signal at the top of the screen. If it most often reads 3G, it is likely that you have a phone locked to 3G. 

But if you have the word VoLTE displayed at the top of the phone, next to the signal bar indicator, then you have a phone capable and enabled for VoLTE. 

If you have a 3G locked phone, you will need to look at upgrading your phone before 3G shuts down in 2025. You can use PriceMe to shop for phones, compare models, prices, and find the best deal on your device upgrade. It has never been a better time to unlock the future!

If You are Travelling Overseas:

Mobile operators in some countries are in the process of shutting down 3G services too. There are some that have already done this. If your phone isn’t VoLTE capable, you might not be able to connect to mobile data services while roaming. You don’t want to not have access to the internet while trying to find your hotel on maps! Mobile data enables a smooth overseas trip by helping you navigate, keep in touch with family back home, and book restaurants while out and about. Upgrade your phone so you can stay connected!

Upgrade your Phone

Jump on PriceMe to shop for phones. We can help you find the best match, whether you are looking for the latest shining gadgets such the iPhone 15 or Samsung Galaxy S24 series, or budget-friendly options such Oppo range. PriceMe find the right phone for the cheapest price.

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Further Reading:

A Guide to Finding the Right Mobile Plan

6 Must-Have Features in Modern Phones

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