The 3G network is coming to an inevitable shutdown that could impact more than just older phones and could cause home alarm systems and vehicle safety features to turn off.
Next week, AT&T plans to shut down the 3G network, a move that will be mimicked by other carriers later this year. Amid the shutdown, several products will require updates to continue working, such as medical devices like fall detectors and roadside assistance systems.
3G Network Shutdown
Many technology companies are urging their customers to swap their older 3G iPhones for newer devices ahead of the network shutdown. Many other businesses are also recommending upgrading or replacing some of their everyday products and services found in their homes and vehicles before they lose connectivity functions.
CNN reported that, if left alone, the 3G network shutdown could cause high risks in certain areas across the nation, such as millions of cars no longer having the ability to contact first responders after a collision. Vehicles with older features may not be able to receive updates such as location or traffic alerts for built-in GPS systems.
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In some instances, car manufacturers will push out software updates that will enable vehicles to retain at least some of their services even after the 3G network shutdown. Certain Audi models from 2012 to 2019 will lose connected technology features on Feb. 22. The company released a statement saying that a full list of the affected vehicles will be placed on its website.
Furthermore, the statement explained that the shutdown of the 3G network was due to technological obsolescence. The situation is a result of older technologies not being compatible with newer technology as the majority of devices and features rely on the 4G network. This has caused telecommunication providers to slowly move away from 3G and begin supporting 5G connectivity.
Affected Features
Tesla, an electric car manufacturer, was not spared by the network shutdown and has confirmed that certain Model S vehicles made before 2015 will require an update to an LTE-enabled modem to retain some of their features. The company said that the upgrade will cost owners roughly $200. However, the features will still be available without the need for an upgrade if the car is, one way or another, connected to Wi-Fi, as per Newsweek.
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) said that the situation was a common thing among mobile carriers and said that they had the flexibility to choose the types of technologies and services that they deploy. This includes when they choose to decommission older features to focus on newer technologies that aim to meet customer demand.
As per MSN, it was reported that roughly 1.5 million people have not upgraded their fire and burglar alarms that still continue to run on 3G network technology. While the alarm systems will still sound in the case of a burglar or intruder, they will no longer be able to contact emergency services automatically and alert authorities of the potentially ongoing crime and rush in to protect or save the homeowners.
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