T-Mobile recently posted that their 2G network is scheduled to be retired on April 2, 2024. The carrier’s process of turning down these services does not include the deactivation of devices. It is imperative that you deactivate any T-Mobile 2G devices before the end of the March 23, 2024, billing cycle to avoid on-going billing of the service.
Can I Still Use My Current Device?
With regards to voice devices, it will need to support Voice over LTE (VoLTE). This must also be VoLTE 911 capable. If the device does not, you will need to upgrade or replace your device to ensure continued voice calling and coverage.
For data only 4G/LTE devices, manufacturers advise that certain devices configured as DATA ONLY may no longer attach to the network after the sunset due to a default voice-centric setting. When these devices attach after the sunset they will attempt to request voice-centric signaling and will get a response from the network saying they are attached as data-centric. The module will see the mismatch and scan for another network that supports 3G voice-centric. This may prompt a “No Service” condition and the device may fail to connect.
Manufacturers are advising customers operating DATA ONLY devices (but contain a data/voice module) to undertake one of the three options below:
- Swap out the device for a Data only device
- Execute the appropriate AT+ command based on your device to disable the VoLTE and IMS services to make the configuration data-centric
- Perform a firmware update to resolve the issue. Check with the device vendor if it can be reconfigured to data-centric AND all voice and IMS services disabled. This is normally accomplished using a firmware update from the vendor.
Should you require any assistance finding an appropriate data only device, ask the 5Gstore sales team about our cellular modems and routers. Contact us today by phone, email, or chat!
