Have an older phone? Here’s what you need to know about the 3G shutdown

ATLANTA — All of the major phone carriers will shut down their older 3G networks this year.

That means that if you still have a phone that works on a 3G network, you won’t be able to make phone calls or texts when your network shuts the network down. Your apps and websites also won’t work.

A handful of AT&T customers may soon lose cell service when the wireless company drops their 3G coverage on February 22nd.

AT&T says less than 1% of their customers still use 3G-only devices and they’ve been communicating with customers for nearly two years. In a statement, a spokesperson said, “we will continue to do so, as we help them navigate this transition. This includes providing free replacement phones to a substantial majority of customers.”

Here’s what you need to know:

When each major carrier will drop 3G:

Sprint’s 3G: March 32
AT&T’s 3G: Feb. 22, 2022
Sprint’s LTE: June 30, 2022
Verizon’s 3G: Dec. 31, 2022
T-Mobile’s older 3G: July 1, 2022
T-Mobile’s 2G network: TBD
Cricket Wireless: Feb. 22, 2022

Which devices will stop working:

Any iPhone older than an iPhone 6, including the iPhone 5, 5C and 5S
Samsung Galaxy S4s and older, but newer models may need an update
Kindle with 3G
GizmoPal, GizmoPal2, GizmoGadget
Various Hum + models
3G Home Phone Connect
Apple iPad 2

AT&T has also released a LIST of which phones WILL keep working.

What to do if your phone is being retired:

Some providers will replace older phones and some phones just need an update to keep working. You may also have to buy a new phone. Some carriers are offering discounts and special promotions on replacement devices. Here’s where to find out what you need to do based on your carrier.

The FCC also offers affordable connectivity options for low-income households to purchase phone and internet:

Affordable Connectivity Progra m