Telstra and Optus have delayed the 3G shutdown until October 28 to allow for one last push of "mass public awareness" of the changes.
The two telcos plan to invest in a public safety campaign over the coming weeks to ensure anyone who still depends on the 3G network is aware of the impending closure and the actions they need to take.
Over the last few months, there have been a number of concerns raised around the 3G shutdown. While 3G-only phones will naturally stop work working, some 4G phones require 3G for phone calls, text messages, and emergency calls. What's more complicated is some 4G phones will continue to be able to make phone calls, but not emergency calls.
These include the following phones (as well as older variants):
- iPhone 6
- iPhone 6 Plus
- iPhone SE (1st generation)
- Galaxy S7
- Galaxy S7 Plus
- Galaxy S8
- Galaxy S8 Plus
- Galaxy Note 5
- Galaxy Note 8
- Google Pixel
- Google Pixel XL
- Google Pixel 2
- Google Pixel 2 XL
All Australians can text "3" to 3498 to determine whether their device is compatible with 4G and will still be able to make emergency calls. As of last week, it was estimated that there were still over 70,000 4G devices that won't be able to call Triple Zero after 3G is shuttered.
Some phones may also be missing certain 4G bands, which would mean weaker or no coverage in some areas. This can especially be an issue with phones not bought in Australia.
In addition to phones, there are also devices like medical monitors, security cameras, and EFTPOS machines that may still rely on 3G.
In a joint statement, Telstra and Optus said they're "confident they've exhausted every avenue of customer communication available to them" and that the new campaign will ensure the closures are front of mind for every Australian.
The telcos also noted that "there will always be customers who are aware of the closures, but won't take the action they need" until the networks actually shut down.
Today's announcement follows calls from a Senate Committee and Australia's communications consumer body ACCAN to delay the shutdown.
In a statement released last night, ACCAN CEO Carol Bennett said unresolved safety risks mean that 3G is still needed.
"We need reassurance that those who are reliant on 3G medical devices, low-income and vulnerable consumers, as well as farms and businesses are not exposed to harm or left behind,” said Bennett.
Telstra already delayed its 3G shutdown once. It was originally slated for June 30, but it then pushed out the date until August 3. Optus was planning to close its 3G network starting in September. Vodafone finished closing its 3G network in January, but some of its customers may still need to upgrade devices to continue to call Triple Zero, as emergency calls can use any network.
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Alex Choros
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