3G is shutting down and some of your most essential tech may soon – or, may have already – become unusable. What steered the evolution of how we use, interact, and communicate with technology 20 years ago will officially retire by the end of 2022 (which is in two weeks), with major US carriers having nearly finished with repurposing their 3G satellites.  In their place: 5G, the next-generation network that promises considerably faster speeds than 4G LTE and a more unified system for Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Internet of Things (IoT) expansion. So, what does this all mean for older hardware like cell phones, alarms, and GPS systems that thrive on the 3G spectrum? To put it bluntly, many of the network-driven features will become obsolete, presenting some unforeseen dangers. Fortunately, there are steps that you and your loved ones can take to safely transition from aging to future-proof tech. In some cases, manufacturers may even be able to give your older gadgets new life through software upgrades. Also: Space junk is falling from the sky. We are still not doing enough to stop it Here is everything you need to know about the “3G sunset”, how it will affect the technology that you use, and what you can do to stay afloat in the ever-changing landscape.

AT&T is the first of the big three, closing its 3G network on Feb. 22, 2022. Sprint, now merged with T-Mobile, closed its 3G network on May 31, 2022.T-Mobile shut down its 3G service on July 1, 2022. Verizon’s 3G network will shut off on Dec. 31, 2022. The carrier has made it clear that “the date will not be extended again.”

You can find more information regarding when the 3G networks close on FCC’s website. According to the CTIA, “fewer than nine percent of the US wireless connections are 2G or 3G subscriptions.” If you’re using a smartphone that launched after 2014, you likely won’t experience any setbacks from the 3G shutdown. The same applies to flip phones that were released after 2017. Unsure of what year your device was manufactured? The best solution is to check with your local carrier – in person or online – to see if there are any compatibility issues. Also: Best smartphones you can buy Carriers like T-Mobile and Verizon are also reaching out to 3G customers to help with the transition to 4G and 5G service plans. We’re seeing trade-in offers and incentives that will have your 3G-supported phone swapped with a 5G-supported one for free. And for low-income consumers, the FCC’s Lifeline program will discount qualifying monthly telephone and internet services, making the conversion all the more accessible. In general, if you or a loved one are using an older phone, this is your call to upgrade. Vehicles from popular automakers like Toyota, Lexus, Nissan, Hyundai, Dodge, and more released before 2019 are susceptible to the issues mentioned above. The main reason that newer models still carry 3G receivers, according to Roger Lanctot, director of automotive connected mobility at Strategy Analytics, is for automakers to save on manufacturing costs. Also: The best affordable EVs To stay ahead of the curve, you’ll want to ensure that your car supports or can receive hardware upgrades to connect to 4G. As with smartphones, your best bet to stay in the know is by consulting with your local car dealer. While the modification may come in the form of downloadable software or physical spare parts, it will help to keep your vehicle up-to-date and functioning – especially during times of danger. Fortunately, over the course of the pandemic, many home security companies have proactively been migrating customers from 3G to 4G networks, ensuring that their services remain operational, even after the 3G spectrum is taken down. Unlike smartphones and cars that require disassembling or full-on upgrades, adding 4G functionality to security systems is as simple as having a technician install an external receiver (usually a box or panel). Also: The best outdoor security cameras If you or someone you know is subscribed to a home security plan (ADT, Vivint, SimpliSafe, etc.) a customer representative should have reached out by phone or mail regarding the transition. If not, services like ADT allow you to schedule a free appointment via phone or website to get the conversion started.

Medical alert devices (fall detectors, communicators, etc.)Fire alarmsInventory trackersSmartwatchesE-readers (Kindles, Nooks, etc.)GPS trackers (including for pets)Marine safety devices