Australian Mobile Telecommunications Association (AMTA), Media Release, 27 June 2024
The Australian Mobile Telecommunications Association (AMTA) today announced the launch of a new web-based tool, Check my Device to help Australians determine if their mobile device will be fully supported on Australian mobile networks after 3G networks close, including the ability to make emergency calls to Triple 0.
Check my Device can be found on the website, www.3Gclosure.com.au, is available to all Australians, on any mobile network and can be translated in 11 different languages including Arabic, Greek, Hindi and Mandarin. The tool uses a mobile phone’s IMEI number, a unique 15-digit International Mobile Equipment Identity number, which identifies the make and model of the mobile device, to determine if it will be supported on all three Australian mobile networks once 3G closes.
The site provides clear steps on how to source the IMEI number of the mobile device by simply entering *#06# into the phone’s keypad. After entering their IMEI number, users receive an immediate response.
If OK, no further action is needed – the mobile phone will be fully supported after the 3G networks close. If users receive a CHECK prompt, they should contact their service provider as their handset may not be able to make emergency calls to Triple 0 after 3G networks close and may need to be upgraded or replaced.
Telstra and Optus network users can also text ‘3’ to ‘3498’ to check if their device is supported after 3G closes.
AMTA also recommends that ‘Check My Device’ be used prior to making a device purchase. Ask the seller for the IMEI number of the device you are considering purchasing. Some grey-import devices do not support emergency calls once 3G closes. We also recommend that consumers check to ensure that the device isn’t blocked before purchasing.
AMTA’s CEO, Louise Hyland, said it is important that Australians act now and not delay; “It’s crucial to act now if you know you have an older mobile device that connects to a 3G network, and you have not already upgraded.
“Devices that use the 3G network for voice services will not be able to make any calls, including emergency calls to Triple 0, once Australia’s 3G networks are fully inactive. There are also certain 4G devices that will not be able to make emergency calls to Triple 0 after all 3G networks close. The Check my Device tool is an easy way to check whether your mobile device will be fully supported after the switchover from 3G is complete. If needed, get in touch with your service provider to find an upgrade solution that suits your circumstances,” Hyland added.
Australia’s 3G networks have been shutting down in stages, with the TPG Telecom-owned Vodafone network being the first mobile network operator to close its 3G network in January 2024. Telstra will complete its 3G network closure on 31st August 2024, and finally Optus will commence its 3G closure from September 2024.
Hyland said, “It is important to note that while 3G networks are still in operation, those affected mobile devices will continue to connect to any available 3G network while in coverage, to make emergency calls to Triple 0. However, once the 3G networks are fully closed at the end of the year, these phones will not be able to make emergency calls. It is crucial to act now if you know you have an older mobile device and you haven’t already upgraded.”
Mobile phone users should not call Triple 0 to check their device.
As 4G and 5G network services become widespread, 3G network usage has declined significantly, and carriers around the world are closing down their older networks.
“4G and 5G networks in Australia are more efficient at delivering faster speed and capacity, which means better service and an enhanced mobile internet experience for users. Mobile network operators are expanding coverage to match or exceed 3G coverage. We recognise however that this transition may pose difficulties for some users, particularly in regional and remote communities. We urge Australians to act now to ensure they are taking the necessary steps to stay connected,” continued Hyland.
AMTA encourages individuals with affected or old devices to properly dispose of them through MobileMuster, the official recycling scheme of the Australian mobile industry, promoting responsible product stewardship and sustainability.
To use the Check my Device tool, go to www.amta.org.au/3g-closure/check-my-device/.
For more information about the closure of the 3G networks and MobileMuster recycling scheme, please visit www.3Gclosure.com.au, or the website of your mobile network operator.
