Things to know about our 3G shutdown
We're switching off 3G from late 2025
In our quest to constantly improve our network, sometimes we need to wave goodbye to older technology. That’s why we, along with other mobile operators in NZ, are starting to switch off our 3G network service towards the end of 2025 to enhance our 4G services and support the growth of 5G technology.
You might already be using 4G for voice calls, texts and data. If that's the case you may still need to update your device settings. If your device is impacted based on our records, we will be reaching out to you over the next few months to ensure you have a device that is 4G capable of using 4G for calls, texts and data*. We recommend you double - check your device status using the methods below.
*While we try our best, our records may not always be 100% perfect.
Will I be impacted by the 3G shutdown?
1. How to check if your phone is 4G capable:
For the most accurate result, we recommend you use the IMEI checker here.
2. What do I do if I don’t have a 4G capable phone?
Depending on the exact impact the 3G shutdown will have on your phone, you may need to upgrade your phone to ensure you stay connected. We offer a range of 4G ready phones at any 2degrees store or online.
Note: Your old phone won’t work as it should after the shutdown, so please don’t pass it on to someone else. Drop off your unwanted phone to a 2degrees store so our team can recycle it safely and responsibly.
3. I have a 4G capable phone do I need to do anything?
Even if you have a 4G capable phone, you may still need to take one or two extra steps to be sure you keep connected after the 3G shutdown.
Update your software
Once you’ve checked your device is 4G calling capable, you may still need to update a couple of settings. First we’d recommend that you make sure your phone has the latest software update.
- iPhone: Go to Settings > General > Software Update
- Android: Go to Settings > Software Update
Switching on VoLTE in your settings
If you’ve checked your device is 4G calling capable, and your phone software has been updated, you may still need to switch ‘VoLTE’ on in your settings.
- iPhone: Go to Settings > Mobile > Mobile Data Options > Voice and Data > Ensure 5G or 4G is ticked (dependent on phone capability) and that VoLTE toggle is enabled.
- Samsung: Go to Settings > Connections > Mobile networks, ensure network mode is set as 5G or 4G auto connect (dependent on phone capability) and VoLTE calls are enabled.
- Other Android: Go to Settings > Mobile networks > select SIM, ensure network mode is set as 5G or 4G auto connect (dependent on phone capability) and VoLTE calls are enabled.
Note: More detailed instructions including dual SIM settings can be found here.
If you’ve got a 4G calling capable device and you’ve switched on ‘VoLTE’ in your settings you're all set there’s nothing more to do!
3G Shutdown FAQs
Enter your phone’s IMEI number below. This is a 15-digit number that can be found by dialling *#06#, in your device settings, or printed on your phone.
Note: Ensure there are no spaces between the numbers, and when typing your IMEI number don't include the word 'IMEI'.
Note: While your phone may support calls using VoLTE (Voice over 4G), we cannot guarantee emergency calls will go through if your phone was not purchased from an authorised New Zealand reseller.
We recommend contacting your reseller or the device manufacturer directly to confirm whether your phone supports both 4G calling and emergency calls over the 4G network.
In NZ, there are three mobile network operators (2degrees, Spark, and One NZ) that use Radio Access Network (RAN) tech for their services. Over time, this technology evolves and improves, and we refer to this as different generations or ‘G’s. Currently, mobile networks in NZ have a mix of third, fourth, and fifth generation technologies, called 3G, 4G, and 5G. Most new phones work with 3G, 4G, and 5G, but some older phones only work with 3G. As newer tech rolls out, older generations, like 2G and 3G, get phased out to make way for faster networks.
It's been a great run since 3G was introduced in 2009, but the future lies in the faster 4G and 5G networks. We're upgrading to make sure you're hooked up with top-notch connectivity! Many mobile operators worldwide are starting to or have already shut down their 3G networks to make room for improvements to 4G and 5G networks.
A ‘4G capable’ device is one that supports calling, texting, and data services over the 4G network. If your device is not fully 4G capable it will not work as it should after 3G is switched off. This includes the ability to:
- Make phone calls
- Send or receive messages
- Make emergency calls to ‘111’ on the 2degrees network
- Use data or connect to the internet
The 3G shutdown won’t just affect mobile phones, other connected devices like tablets, routers, smart doorbells, security cameras, and lighting systems may stop working if they rely on 3G. Devices that only use Wi-Fi are fine, but if your device uses mobile data or can make calls, you’ll need to check if it supports 4G.
Here are a few ways to check if your device can connect to 4G:
- Find the make and model number, typically found on the device itself or, in some cases, within the companion app used to control it. Then use our IMEI device checker.
- Check the user manual or the manufacturer’s website to see if it supports 4G.
- Contact the manufacturer or your provider if you’re unsure. They will be able to confirm if you need to upgrade to stay connected.
Note: If you’re a larger business, now is the time to act. To understand your device specs, contact your provider, or get in touch with your Account Manager for support.
There are a small number of areas where only 3G is available today. As part of the 3G shutdown, we are committed to rolling out 4G at every existing 3G site prior to decommissioning the 3G network.
Mobile operators in some countries like the USA and Australia, are either starting to or have already shut down their 3G networks.
From 28 October 2024, all 3G networks in Australia have shutdown. Without an up-to-date phone, you won't be able to use voice services while roaming. To avoid any issues, check your phone is VoLTE roaming capable before your trip.
Find out which overseas countries have VoLTE when roaming.
Some phones support 4G calling but not in areas where low band spectrum is used which is primarily in rural areas. We’d recommended upgrading to a fully 4G calling capable phone or you won't be able to make or receive calls in these areas following the 3G Shutdown.
For those on our Vulnerable Consumers Registration, no action is required at this time. Our dedicated care team will provide assistance and ensure that the phone you’ve been provided with is good to go.
If you have any questions, get in touch with our team by email at vulnerableconsumer@support.2degrees.nz or give us a call on 0800 022 022.
If you’re using medical or security alarms they might still be relying on 3G technology, we will be contacting impacted customers based on our records. However, if you're concerned your alarm may be impacted, please check with your current device provider to ensure it’s up to date and compatible with 4G.
The 3G shutdown will impact all customers on the 2degrees network, no matter which brand they're with. The information on this page applies to everyone on our network. If you're with another brand that is powered by 2degrees and you need assistance you’ll need to reach out to your provider if you have queries or issues.
If you need a hand simply call Customer Care on 0800 022 022 or visit your nearest 2degrees store and our staff can help you out.
