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US 3G/HSPA networks are shutting down: FAQs

Planning on travelling to the U.S.? You may be impacted. Read this important message BEFORE travelling to the US.

In February 2022, mobile providers in the United States, including AT&T and T-Mobile, began permanently shutting down their 3G/HSPA networks.

As of July 1, 2022, Impacted customers will no longer be able to roam on the cellular network in the U.S., and you will not be able to make or receive wireless calls (including 911 calls), text messages, or use cellular data while in the U.S. (including Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands).

What should I do if my phone no longer works after the shutdowns?

If your device is affected by the US 3G/HSPA network shutdowns and you’d still like to use talk, text and data services while travelling in the US, you’ll need to upgrade to a device that’s 4G LTE data and VoLTE roaming capable. 

You can upgrade your phone online >, or contact us so we can help you upgrade.

Who's affected by the shutdowns? 

The US 3G/HSPA network shutdowns will only affect a small number of phones that do not support 4G LTE data and Voice over Long-Term Evolution (VoLTE) roaming.

Those with an affected device will no longer be able to make or receive wireless calls (including 911 calls), send or receive text messages or use cellular data while in the US (including Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands).

Most phones today support 4G LTE data and VoLTE roaming networks, so only a small number of devices will be affected.

If you already have a VoLTE roaming-capable phone, you’ll need to make sure that VoLTE is enabled on your device to roam in the US.

Not sure how to check if VoLTE is enabled or how to turn it on? Just follow these steps.

Apple iOS

  1. Go to Settings.
  2. Select Cellular.
  3. Select Cellular Data Options.
  4. Select Voice & Data.
  5. Select LTE, VoLTE ON.

 

Android OS

Note: every Android is slightly different, but all should follow this basic formula.

  1. Go to Settings.
  2. Select Connections.
  3. Select Mobile networks.
  4. Select VoLTE calls and turn it on.

 

Important: to resolve any network connectivity issues after enabling VoLTE, power-cycle your device by turning it off and then back on.

Will the shutdowns affect my service in Canada?

No. If your device is affected by the US 3G/HSPA network shutdowns, you can still use it as you normally do in Canada.

Are all devices affected by the shutdowns?

No. Listed below are some devices not impacted by the shutdowns:

  • iPhone 6 and later models
  • Samsung Galaxy: A10e, Note9, S8, Fold, X Cover, Z or later models
  • Google Pixel 3 or later models
  • Motorola G, Edge, K20, E or later models


These also include ‘plus’ models.

If your device/model isn't listed above, please check your device’s settings, or contact the device manufacturer. Only devices that support 4G LTE data and VoLTE roaming voice services will work while travelling in the United States starting February 2022.

Will switching to a new wireless provider help?

No. The US 3G/HSPA network shutdowns will affect any device that does not support 4G LTE data and VoLTE roaming voice services, regardless of the Canadian wireless provider. 

The shutdowns affect my device, but I don't plan on using it in the US. Do I need to do anything?

If you’re certain that you won’t be using your device in the US, no action is needed.

However, it’s important to remember that you won’t be able to make or receive calls (including 911 calls), send or receive text messages, or use cellular data on your device in the US when carriers begin shutting down US 3G/HSPA networks starting February 2022.