Vodafone 3G Network Shutdown | FAQs
Vodafone is making some changes to its network that may affect your service(s).
Pivotel Mobile services use the Vodafone Network which is closing down its legacy 3G mobile network on the 15th of December 2023.
Vodafone’s 4G network now covers more than 24 million Australians. With superior speeds and greater connectivity available across the 4G network, Vodafone is now preparing to switch off its legacy 3G mobile network by the end of 2023.
Pivotel Mobile services have had access to the Vodafone 4G network since 2016, which provides faster connectivity and improved features. The majority of Pivotel Mobile customers do not have to do anything and will continue to access the 4G network as they do today.
A small number of customers that have 3G-only handsets will need to upgrade their handset before the 3G network closes. Some 4G handsets may need a settings change to be able to make and receive calls on the 4G network.
You don’t have to do anything now. If you do have a handset that is affected, we’ll send you another email to let you know what you need to do to make sure you stay connected. In the meantime, you can continue to enjoy your Pivotel Mobile service.
FAQs
When is the 3G network closing down?
Vodafone will switch off its 3G network on 15 December 2023.
What do I need to do?
The vast majority of our customers do not have to do anything at all and will continue accessing the 4G network as they do today.
A very small number of our customers have 3G-only handsets, tablets and connected devices and they will need to upgrade those devices before December 2023.
Some 4G handsets may also need a settings change to be able to continue to make and receive voice calls using Vodafone’s 4G network.
If you do have a device that is affected, we’ll send you another email to let you know what you need to do to make sure you stay connected.
Why is the 3G network closing down?
Mobile carriers around the world are closing down their 3G networks as more advanced 4G and 5G network services become widespread. 4G and 5G networks are more efficient at delivering greater speed and capacity, which means better service and experience for customers.
Similar shutdowns have happened before. All Australian mobile networks switched off their 2G networks a few years ago when they upgraded to 4G.
Vodafone’s licence to access 3G spectrum (the invisible electromagnetic frequencies that transmit mobile data) is set to expire in mid-2024. Although most customers rarely need to access 3G, we want to make sure customers have the appropriate notice and to offer support to those who need assistance.
What devices are affected by the 3G closure?
All 3G-only devices (including phones, tablets and mobile broadband devices) and in rare cases, some older 4G phones, will be affected.
Some older 4G phones that do not have a feature called 'VoLTE' (Voice over Long Term Evolution) will not be able to make and receive voice calls.
If you do have a device that is affected, we’ll send you another email to let you know what you need to do to make sure you stay connected.
I have a 3G phone, how does this affect me?
If you have a 3G-only phone then you will no longer be able to make calls, send texts or access the internet on your phone when the 3G network switches off. You will still be able to make emergency 000 calls on other 3G networks when in coverage. WiFi internet access is still possible.
We recommend you upgrade your phone to a 4G or 5G compatible device to continue having mobile service.
If you do have a device that is affected, we’ll send you another email to let you know what you need to do to make sure you stay connected.
Will 4G network coverage differ to 3G coverage?
Vodafone’s 4G coverage is similar in size and reach to its 3G coverage. For more information, view coverage maps here.
Does the 3G network closure only affect phones?
No. Other devices like tablets, mobile broadband modems, smart watches, some home security systems, and other connected devices might also be using 3G services. Please contact your device manufacturer or our Customer Care team if you are unsure of your device’s specific capabilities.
What is VoLTE and how do I switch it on?
Voice over LTE (VoLTE) is a feature that allows you to make voice calls using the 4G network. You might need to turn the VoLTE setting on.
Android devices
If you have a Samsung device, Voice over LTE should automatically be enabled. If you’ve previously disabled VoLTE and want to reenable it, or would like to check if it’s enabled on your Android device, please go to your Settings > Mobile Networks
Apple devices
If you have an Apple device iPhone 6 or later, Voice over LTE should be automatically enabled. To check this or manually enable, please go to Settings > Mobile > Mobile Data options > Voice and Data
What do I do with my old 3G device?
The best way to recycle your old device is to utilise Mobile Muster, the Australian mobile industry's official recycling scheme. For more information, visit Recycle a mobile - MobileMuster.