New Zealand mobile network operators will be closing all 3G networks towards the end of 2025. This means it’s important to check the capability of your mobile devices now to make sure you’re ready for the change. If your device relies on 3G technology in any way or is not set-up for Voice over Long Term Evolution (VoLTE), you’ll need to update your mobile settings or replace your device to maintain connectivity.
3G was introduced in 2009 and uses older technology. The future lies in the faster 4G and 5G networks to provide users with a better mobile experience. Mobile operators around the world are shutting down 3G to free up frequency and resources for their 4G and 5G networks.
If you’re already using 4G for voice calls (also known as VoLTE), you’re all set for when the 3G shutdown happens. But if you can’t see VoLTE or 4G/5G in your signal bar or in your phone settings, read on to learn more about what this means and what actions you might need to take to avoid losing connectivity.
What date will 2degrees shutdown their 3G network?
A specific date has not been set for the 2 degrees network.
However, all three mobile network operators have announced the shutdown will happen towards the end of 2025.
We will let you know the specific date once it is confirmed
Will my phone work after the 3G shutdown?
Most smartphones released in New Zealand from 2014 onwards are VoLTE capable.
However, if you purchased your device overseas or from a local importer, it may have different specifications and can’t be guaranteed to work correctly in New Zealand.
View our device list to check if your phone is VoLTE capable.
What is VoLTE?
VoLTE stands for Voice over Long Term Evolution and it allows you to make high definition calls over a 4G network.
Simply put, when you make a voice call using VoLTE, you connect quicker and enjoy a clearer connection with reduced background noise.
What do I need to do now?
You should check your devices to make sure they are VoLTE capable.
Some users might simply need to update their device to the latest firmware or turn on VoLTE in their device settings. However, others may need to purchase a new device if their current device is not VoLTE capable.
How will I know if I have a compatible device?
- Check our device list to see VoLTE capability for some of the more common devices.
- For Android users, if you see VoLTE next to the signal bar at the top of your phone, then your device is VoLTE capable, and VoLTE is turned on.
- For iPhone users, VoLTE is typically on by default. You should see 4G/5G next to the signal bar while connected to a mobile network.
Please note, some mobile phones are 4G capable for data and SMS, but not for VoLTE. If you have a non-VoLTE 4G device, it will work for data and SMS but not for traditional voice calls when a 3G network is unavailable.
How do I check my phone settings?
If you’ve confirmed you have a VoLTE capable device and have updated to the latest firmware, here’s how you can check VoLTE is switched on in your device settings.
iPhone: go to Settings > Mobile > Mobile Data Options > Voice and Data > ensure 5G or 4G is ticked and VoLTE is enabled.
Note: If you have a compatible device on our device list but Voice and Data is not showing as an option in your phone settings, VoLTE is probably enabled by default.
iPhone using dual SIM: (i.e. eSIM and physical SIM): go to Settings > Mobile > select the SIM you are using for voice calls e.g. Primary > Voice and Data > ensure 5G or 4G is ticked and VoLTE is enabled.
Note: If you have a compatible device on our device list but Voice and Data is not showing as an option in your phone settings, VoLTE is probably enabled by default.
Samsung: go to Settings > Connections > Mobile networks > ensure network mode is set as 5G or 4G auto connect and VoLTE calls is enabled.
Other Android: go to Settings > Mobile networks > select SIM > ensure network mode is set as 5G or 4G auto connect and VoLTE calls is enabled. If VoLTE is not an option in your network settings, your device may not support VoLTE.
Will I still be able to make emergency calls?
When the 3G network shuts down, you will need a 4G phone with VoLTE turned on to make an emergency 111 voice call.
If you are unsure if your device is compatible, please get in touch and we’ll be happy to help.
What if I only get 3G coverage where I live?
There are a small number of areas where only 3G is available today.
Network operators are planning to expand 4G coverage to those areas before the 3G shutdown.
Will my device work overseas?
Closing the 3G network in New Zealand won’t impact roaming overseas.
However, mobile operators in other countries are also planning to (or have already) shut down their 3G networks.
In countries where 3G is no longer available (e.g. Australia), you will need a 4G device with VoLTE turned on to use roaming data, calls and SMS.
Will I need a new SIM card?
If your device is already VoLTE capable, you won’t need a new SIM.
However, if you need a new device, compatibility of your SIM card will depend on the type of device you purchase.
You’ll need a new SIM if your current SIM doesn’t fit or if your new device is eSIM only.
If this is the case for you, please get in touch and we’ll be happy to help.
What should I do with my old 3G device?
It’s always a good idea to be mindful of the environment when disposing of electronics.
You can drop your old device into one of 480+ drop-off locations across New Zealand. Your device will then be passed onto RE:MOBILE to make sure all reusable parts are recycled.
Don’t forget to perform a factory reset on your device to remove all personal data before dropping it off.
Visit remobile.org.nz to learn more or find a drop-off location near you.
Will my medical alarm or monitored security alarm still work?
There may be some medical or security alarms that still rely on 3G technology.
If you're concerned your alarm may be impacted, please check with your alarm provider to ensure it’s up to date and compatible with 4G well before the 3G shutdown.