My device stopped working when 3G shut down. What now?
If you have received a notification from us including the reference that "recent activity indicates use of a device that will be impacted", it is likely that you need to upgrade to a compatible device to continue using our services.
Please note that email notifications were sent to the account-holder, and the affected device could be any, some, or all of the devices connected to an account.
If you have multiple services it is important to check the specifications on each device to ensure that they support 4G for data and VoLTE for calls, and are compatible with the 4G and/or 5G bands that ALDImobile operates upon.
Device impacts from 28 October 2024
The Australian Communications and Media Authority confirmed specific requirements for mobile devices after the 3G shutdown. As a result, devices have been blocked from the network if they are:
- 3G-only
- Are a 4G phone without VoLTE capability
- Use 3G for emergency calls even if they have 4G
Different devices, different impacts:
Mobile phones:
- Must support 4G VoLTE for all calls, including emergency services
- Require correct software version and settings
- Have been blocked if they don't meet these requirements
Non-calling devices (IoT, M2M, tablets, etc):
- 3G-only devices lose network access
- 4G devices without VoLTE can continue accessing data
- Must be compatible with current network bands
- No emergency calling requirements if not phone capable
Checking your device compatibility
If you've received a notification about device compatibility:
- Text '3G' to 3498 for an immediate device check
- To validate whether a device has been blocked visit the Telstra Wholesale blocked device checker and enter your device IMEI
- Verify for each device on your account
- Check specifications for:
- 4G VoLTE capability
- Emergency calling over 4G
- Network band compatibility (especially Band 28)
- Software/settings requirements
Multiple service considerations:
- Check each device individually
- Don't assume all devices on your account are affected
- Verify specifications even if you haven't received a notification
- Consider both calling and non-calling devices
Required actions:
- For incompatible phones:
- Replace with a 4G VoLTE capable device, or
- Update software/settings if device supports VoLTE
- For 3G non-calling devices:
- Upgrade to 4G compatible versions
- Ensure network band compatibility
Timing:
- 3G shutdown and device blocking began on 28 October 2024
The shutdown date was aligned with regulatory requirements and network planning. To maintain uninterrupted service, ensure all your devices meet new network requirements.