Are you ready for the 3G sunset?

Wireless network providers must constantly evolve their technology to provide faster and more reliable service. With limited bandwidth available, older technology must be discontinued in order to support technological innovation and evolution. Starting in 2022, wireless providers in the U.S. will be sunsetting their 3G services to make way for new generations of technology, specifically 4G (LTE) and 5G. Timing and plans for the 3G sunset vary by carrier, with some beginning to phase out parts of their network sooner than others.

The currently communicated timelines for completion of the 3G sunset by each major carrier are:

AT&T:  February 2022   |   T-Mobile:  July 1, 2022   |   Sprint:  March 31 - June 30, 2022   |   Verizon:  December 31, 2022

As carriers shut down their 3G infrastructure, it will become increasingly difficult for older cellular and IoT devices to communicate over wireless networks. Impacted devices will include much more than just older cell phones, as tablets, smartwatches, security systems, medical equipment, and many other IoT devices could lose connectivity. 
 
For Transportation and other sectors that need to track vehicles and assets, your 3G telematics devices such as GPS trackers, sensors, dashcams, and ELD equipment could also be at risk. If you lose connection, you risk losing vital data. The lack of data and insight into your operations increases the risks of service interruption, theft, cargo spoilage, safety concerns, and compliance violations. Any 3G telematics devices should be migrated to a next-generation solution to avoid the risk of losing connection and data.