- What is 3G and why is it being shut down?

3G is the third generation of cellular network technology that supports voice calls, text messages and data services. It is being shut down to free up spectrum for more advanced 4G/LTE and 5G networks.



- When is 3G shutting down?

M1 will officially shut down its 3G network on 31 July 2024.

- How will the 3G shutdown affect my phone? 

If your phone does not say "4G LTE" or "5G" in its status bar when Wi-Fi is off, there's a good chance it is a 3G phone and will no longer work after the shutoff. You will need to upgrade to a newer phone that supports 4G/LTE or 5G networks. For voice calls, you must enable VoLTE on your phone (refer to our guide on enabling VoLTE for more info). 

 

- How will the 3G shutdown affect other devices? 

The shutdown will also affect other devices that rely on 3G networks for cellular connectivity, such as tablets, smartwatches, e-readers, home alarm systems, medical alert devices, car navigation and entertainment systems, and solar panel modems. You will need to upgrade or replace these systems with newer ones that support 4G/LTE or 5G networks. 



- How can I check if my device is compatible with 4G or 5G networks?

From Jul-2023, we will send you emails and SMSes to remind you that you need to get a new 4G or 5G device if you are still using our 3G network. Alternatively, you may check your phone settings for option to enable VoLTE (refer to our guide on enabling VoLTE for more info) – if do not see this option on your phone, it means your phone is not compatible and you will need to upgrade to new 4G or 5G device.

- How can I tell if I’m still using a 3G-only SIM card? 

We will send you an email and SMS if you are only using our 3G network. You can also check your phone settings by going to Network Settings > Mobile Network. You should see a list of mobile standards like 2G, 3G, LTE (4G) or 5G. If 2G and 3G are the only options, you probably have a 3G-only SIM card. 

  

- Are there any charges if I change my 3G-only SIM card to 5G SIM card? 

No, it will be a free upgrade. 

- What are the benefits of switching to 4G or 5G networks? 

Switching to 4G or 5G networks will give you faster speeds, better coverage, lower latency and more capacity for voice and data services. You will also be able to enjoy new features and applications that require higher bandwidth and reliability, such as video streaming, cloud gaming, virtual reality and augmented reality. 

 

- What if I don't want to switch to 4G or 5G networks? 

If you don't want to switch to newer networks, you will not be able to use the following services: voice calls, text messages and data services. 

 

- How can I get ready for 5G? 

To access 5G, you need three things: a 5G-ready device, a 5G SIM/eSIM, and a 5G Postpaid plan. You can find out more about our 5G devices and plans on our website. You also need to be in a place where we have 5G coverage. Unfortunately, 5G is not available for Prepaid and Maxx plans yet. But don’t worry, we are working hard to make it happen soon. 

- What is VoLTE? 

VoLTE stands for Voice over LTE, where LTE means Long Term Evolution. It is a technology that allows you to make voice calls over a 4G LTE network instead of the older 2G or 3G networks. It offers higher quality, faster connection and more capacity for voice and data services. 

 

- How can I use VoLTE? 

To use VoLTE, you need a compatible device that supports 4G LTE or 5G networks. All M1 SIM cards are already provisioned for VoLTE, and your service plan also already includes VoLTE. You just need to check your device's settings to see if VoLTE is enabled or disabled (refer to our guide on enabling VoLTE for more info). You must activate VoLTE on your phone to use voice calls after 3G is shut down. 

 

- What are the benefits of VoLTE? 

VoLTE has several benefits over the older voice networks, such as: 

  - Better sound quality: VoLTE uses a wider frequency range and higher bitrate than 2G or 3G, resulting in clearer and more natural sounding voice calls. 

  - Faster call setup: VoLTE reduces the time it takes to connect a call by up to 50%, making it more convenient and efficient. 

  - Simultaneous voice and data: VoLTE allows you to use voice and data services at the same time without switching between networks or affecting your internet speed. This means you can browse the web, stream music or video, or use other apps while on a call. You must activate VoLTE on your phone to use voice calls after 3G is shut down. 

  - More features and applications: VoLTE enables new features and applications that require higher bandwidth and reliability, such as video calling, conferencing, messaging, and rich communication services (RCS). 

- What happens when I turn off Local Data on the M1 Prepaid app?



To connect to our 4G network, you must have Local Data switched on in the app. If you prefer to use your M1 line without data services, you can disable mobile data in your phone's settings.

- What should enterprises do to prepare for the 3G shutdown?  

The 3G network is going to be discontinued soon, so you need to prepare for the change. Make a list of all your devices and services that use 3G and find out how to upgrade them to 4G or 5G. Your account manager can help you with the process and answer any questions you may have about the impact or disruption of the 3G shutdown. 

 

- How will the 3G shutdown affect travellers coming to SG?  

If you have a 3G-only or 4G (non-VoLTE) device, you will not be able to use any roaming services in SG after 3G shuts down. This means you will not be able to send or receive messages, access the internet, or make or receive phone calls, even to emergency numbers like 9-9-9. To avoid this inconvenience, please get a new device that supports VoLTE Roaming before you travel to SG.