If you have an older cellphone, it may not work at some point in 2022. Mobile carriers are shutting down their 3G networks, which rely on older technology, to make room for more advanced network services, including 5G. AT&T has announced it will finish shutting down its 3G network by February.
Other carriers will shut down later in the year, meaning older cellphones will be unable to make or receive calls, texts, or even reach 911. Citizen’s Utility Board Spokesman Jim Chilsen says this could also impact other devices.
“Things like Life Alert systems, if you have a medical emergency and you have the type of system that will automatically call 911 or alert authorities, those might be dependent on 3G networks depending on what type of device you have. Tablets, smartwatches, vehicle SOS services, home security systems, that’s a big one also.”
He says you shouldn’t panic but shouldn’t procrastinate either. Find out if your device needs a software update or needs to be replaced.
***Report Courtesy of farmweeknow.com***
