Telstra has announced it will be delaying their shutdown of its 3G network until 31 August 2024, Optus will shut down their network on the same date and some providers already have.
For businesses, this means that certain mobile phones, eftpos machines, tablets, security systems and potentially medical alarms that are still using the 3G network will be made obsolete in the near future. Regional businesses experiencing mobile black spots might be facing the biggest challenge.
Businesses are encouraged to audit their devices to see if any still rely on 3G. Those devices will need to be upgraded away from the 20-year-old network to 4G or 5G compatible devices.
Businesses are also encouraged to contact their provider for more specific information tailored to your devices. Providers have increased resources to assist customers with this transition.
Telstra customers can SMS “3” to 3498 to be told whether their device needs to be updated. Optus has listed what types of devices are going to be impacted, which include the iPhone 4 and iPhone 5.
The Australian Mobile Telecommunications Association fact sheet can be found here.
