Important update: Following ACMA regulations, 4G phones without VoLTE capability were blocked from the network after 28 October 2024, as they are unable to make emergency calls over 4G.

Understanding 4G non-VoLTE

For mobile phones
A 4G non-VoLTE phone can connect to 4G networks for data services, providing fast internet speeds for downloads and streaming. However, these devices cannot make voice calls over 4G and must switch to 3G for any voice calls, including emergency calls.

Because these phones rely on 3G for voice calls and cannot make emergency calls over 4G, they were blocked from the network after the 3G shutdown.

For non-calling devices
Many devices like tablets, IoT sensors, or data modems are designed for data-only use and don't include voice calling capabilities. These devices don't require VoLTE support, and if they're 4G capable, will continue working normally after the 3G shutdown.

Impact after 3G shutdown

Mobile phones
4G non-VoLTE phones will be blocked from the network completely. This is because they cannot make emergency calls over 4G, which is now a regulatory requirement. These devices must be replaced, regardless of their data capabilities.

Data-only devices
If your device only uses data and doesn't make calls (like a tablet or IoT sensor), it will continue working normally as long as it supports 4G. These devices aren't affected by the VoLTE requirement since they don't make calls.

Required action

For phones:
You must upgrade to a device that supports 4G VoLTE and can make emergency calls over 4G. Ensure any new device is compatible with current network bands.

For data-only devices:
No action is needed if your device supports 4G. Only devices that are 3G-only need to be upgraded.

Check your device by texting '3G' to 3498 for specific guidance on upgrading requirements.