3G shutdowns could leave most vulnerable without a connection

[mahatmakanejeeves]

Tech Policy

3G shutdowns could leave most vulnerable without a connection

Older phones, emergency alert devices and alarms are set to lose service in 2022

By Cat Zakrzewski
Yesterday at 7:00 a.m. EST

The wireless networks that underpin an assortment of devices, including life-alert alarms, older cellphones and tablets, are about to shut down, an action that consumer advocates say will leave some of society’s most vulnerable people without critical communications tools.

When they were rolled out nearly two decades ago, 3G wireless networks served as the bedrock of an explosion in cellphones and connected devices. Many devices have moved to 4G networks and newer phones are now moving onto 5G.

But a motley assortment still relies on the more rudimentary 3G service — ranging from location sensors that track school buses to connected breathalyzers police use to monitor convicted drunk drivers — and consumer advocates are urging the Federal Communications Commission to slow the change, which is set to start in February.

Older and low-income Americans are more likely to be affected by the shift, these advocates say. If they don’t upgrade in time, their phones and life-alert devices won’t be able to call 911 or other emergency services, government regulators warn.

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By Cat Zakrzewski
Cat Zakrzewski is a technology policy reporter, tracking Washington's efforts to regulate Silicon Valley companies. Her reporting covers antitrust, privacy and the debate over regulating social media companies. Twitter https://twitter.com/Cat_Zakrzewski

[bucolic_frolic]

1. My carrier rushed me into 4G last winter

Now this is telling me it isn't happening for another 60 days. Hmmm.

[DemReadingDU]

2. I had old Blackberry Z10

The carrier sent email that it would not operate properly as of 1/1/22. So purchased Samsung.