Have you heard about the 3G Sunset and how it will impact online activities in 2022? Telecom companies that provide wireless connectivity are shutting down 3G networks throughout 2022 so they can focus tower space on 4G and 5G networks. Businesses that still use 3G devices need to prepare for this major change or face disruption through the potential loss of internet connectivity.
Telecoms Shutting Down Networks in 2022
Various industries still rely on 3G equipment for their operations. Logistics firms, first responders and oil companies still use equipment that connects with 3G networks. But once all the 3G networks are shut down, devices designed for 3G will no longer connect with the internet. Here are sunset dates for some of the top internet providers:
Challenging Transition to 4G and 5G
Despite the shutdown of 2G and 3G networks, tough challenges face telecom and tech developers of 4G and 5G products and services. Supply chain delays have created a domino effect, while chip shortages have also contributed to a slowdown in a wide range of developments. So it may be an awkward transition for some people, especially those who know little about 2G thru 5G and don't keep up with the latest tech news.
Meanwhile, old iPhones and Androids simply won't connect to the internet once the 2G and 3G networks are completely shut down. People who have yet to invest in a modern smartphone might finally get one now that old cellphones will no longer be useful for mobile connectivity. Old 3G phones won't even be able to call 911, but they may still have certain functions over a Wi-Fi connection.
The shift to 4G and 5G may come as culture shock to some people who are happy with their old flip phones. Minimalists who don't like to buy the latest trendy gadget every few years will be annoyed they are forced to conform to a new paradigm. They won't even have the benefit of reselling their old phones as used items. It's possible that remote workforces will face disruption if the full staff doesn't accept the new 4G and 5G standards.
Some environmentalists may complain that this move is causing perfectly good working gadgets to go to waste. At the same time, environmental laws are getting stricter on how to dispose of e-waste. There's also a growing trend toward recycling old electronic gadgets.
The transition to 4G and 5G will most likely disrupt consumers who haven't heard much about it and find out they need to purchase a new mobile device this year.
Despite the shutdown of 2G and 3G networks, tough challenges face telecom and tech developers of 4G and 5G products and services. Supply chain delays have created a domino effect, while chip shortages have also contributed to a slowdown in a wide range of developments. So it may be an awkward transition for some people, especially those who know little about 2G thru 5G and don't keep up with the latest tech news.
Meanwhile, old iPhones and Androids simply won't connect to the internet once the 2G and 3G networks are completely shut down. People who have yet to invest in a modern smartphone might finally get one now that old cellphones will no longer be useful for mobile connectivity. Old 3G phones won't even be able to call 911, but they may still have certain functions over a Wi-Fi connection.
The shift to 4G and 5G may come as culture shock to some people who are happy with their old flip phones. Minimalists who don't like to buy the latest trendy gadget every few years will be annoyed they are forced to conform to a new paradigm. They won't even have the benefit of reselling their old phones as used items. It's possible that remote workforces will face disruption if the full staff doesn't accept the new 4G and 5G standards.
Some environmentalists may complain that this move is causing perfectly good working gadgets to go to waste. At the same time, environmental laws are getting stricter on how to dispose of e-waste. There's also a growing trend toward recycling old electronic gadgets.
The transition to 4G and 5G will most likely disrupt consumers who haven't heard much about it and find out they need to purchase a new mobile device this year.
Industries Affected By Telecom Changes
Industries Affected By Telecom Changes
Most people actually already own phones designed for 4G and 5G networks, so they won't be affected at all by the change. For businesses still using 3G phones and other old devices, the challenge will be to set aside a budget for replacement devices. An obvious option for businesses to avoid paying for new technology is to enforce a "bring your own device" (BYOD) policy with the understanding the device must be compatible with 4G or 5G.
While private networks are an option, most companies need to create an action plan to either replace, upgrade or retrofit devices that rely on older cellular technologies. Businesses need a backup plan to avoid downtime if they are unable to meet the sunset dates with replacement devices. Here are action items to consider when preparing for network shutdowns:
Beyond finding capital in their budget to cover the expense of upgrades, companies must also be able to find the necessary parts for the equipment. Ongoing supply chain challenges include labor shortages, supply shortages and shipment delays for items such as computer chips. Due to this logistics crisis, it may be difficult to find affordable or ideal phone brands and models for your business right away.
Some carriers are offering free and low-cost smartphones for 3G users who need to upgrade. Certain older phones can be upgraded for 4G and 5G with a software update and a new SIM card.
Conclusion
The world of 3G is becoming a ghost town in the IT world. Much of it will no longer be supported by telecom or tech companies. The one thing you can predict this century with technology is constant change.
