3G Shutdown

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is requiring all carriers (including AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile and others) to begin shutting down their 3G network in 2022.

Here's what you need to know.

All carriers in compliance with the FCC mandate must soon start retiring their 3G network as carriers continue to invest in 5G deployment. Starting in February 2022, PureTalk will shut down our 3G network. This shift will mean faster, stronger, more reliable service for our customers.

Read this article on the FCC website about how this is affecting all carriers.

What does it mean for you?

If you are on this page it means we've identified that your phone is not going to be compatible with PureTalk's network after February 2022 when 3G is retired. You'll need a VoLTE capable device that is compatible with PureTalk's network.

Please enter your phone number below to find out if your device will remain compatible with PureTalk's network. If this sounds confusing, don't worry. We're here to help make it easy and to maintain your service without interruption. If your phone has been identified as needing an upgrade, you can choose any phone shown on the PureTalk website. When you are ready, log into your Account to upgrade your phone online or contact our Customer Service team for assistance.

Common questions about the shutdown

All wireless providers will be shutting down their 3G networks in the near future. This will allow more resources to be used to support 4G LTE and 5G networks. Improvements to these networks will greatly improve data speeds and your experience.

You will need a compatible device to avoid disruption to your service once 3G networks are shut down.

A compatible device is one that’s able to use VoLTE wideband audio technology and noise cancelation, which allows a wider range of sound waves to be sent over the network.

Compatible devices make phone calls crisp, clear, and easier to hear. Voices sound more natural, and you’ll hear much less background noise compared with standard voice calls. Also, you’ll be able to stream at 4G LTE speeds during your call.

If your phone is not compatible, you will lose service once the transition takes place. Talk and data services will not work.

There is no increase in the price associated with your plan. Unless you choose to change it, your current rate plan will stay the same. You will be required, however, to pay for the cost of a new phone if you purchase it through our website. You can choose to finance your device and fold the price into your monthly bill.

If you confirmed you have a compatible device, then yes, you can simply move it over. Make sure to check your device compatibility here before moving over your SIM card. Moving your SIM to an ineligible, non-compatible device could cause a service interruption that can only be restored by moving the SIM back to a compatible device.