2G Network Update

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Optus is closing the 2G GSM network from 1 April, 2017. After this date you will not be able to use 2G  devices on the Optus mobile network. 3G Single Band devices also use the 2G network in certain areas of the network, so if you have a 3G Single Band device and are outside the coverage of our 3G 2100 MHz network, you will also lose mobile service in these areas when the 2G GSM network closes. For more information on 3G Single Band devices, please see our FAQ below.

WHY IS THIS HAPPENING?

The Optus mobile network is always evolving, changing and growing. To make way for newer technologies such as our 4G Plus Network, we eventually need to close down older network technologies like 2G. That means we’re able to focus and invest in technology that offers better services for our customers now and into the future. We’re seeing the same thing happen around the world too.

WHAT IS THE 2G NETWORK?

Our 2G network was our first ever mobile network, and lets customer make calls and send texts, with some basic internet connectivity too. But 2G is now an out of date or legacy network technology.

We first launched 2G in 1993 and since then we’ve evolved our network to include newer and faster technologies such as 3G and 4G all of which let you browse the web, download files, stream video and lots more.

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR MY 2G SERVICE?

From 1 April, 2017, your 2G device will no longer work on the Optus mobile network. 3G Single Band devices will also no longer work in 2G areas.

WHAT IS 3G SINGLE BAND?

3G Single Band is the 3G 2100MHz technology that connects your device to the Optus mobile network. Today, when 3G Single Band devices are used outside of Optus 3G 2100MHz network coverage areas, their service switches to 2G.

From 1^st April 2017, 3G Single Band devices will lose coverage when moving into areas once covered by 2G. If you’re currently using a 3G Single Band device, you may need to change to a 3G dual band (3G2100/3G900MHz) or 4G device - for connection to the Optus mobile network. We recommend checking device and coverage at www.optus.com.au/coverage.

WHAT WILL I SEE ON MY SCREEN?

If you have not upgraded your 2G or 3G Single Band device prior to Optus closing its 2G mobile network, you will see one of two things on the screen when you are in an area which previously had Optus 2G coverage:

• “SOS only”, “Emergency Only” or similar message or symbol. This will happen if you are in an area where another mobile network operator has 2G coverage. In this situation, you can make an emergency phone call (police, fire, or ambulance) by dialling “000” or “112”.  Your phone will be unable to make any other type of phone call, receive any phone call, or send or receive any SMS or data.  Note that Telstra is closing its 2G mobile network down on 1 December 2016; or
• “No service”, an antenna icon with a crossed-line through it, or other similar symbol.  This means that your phone has no connectivity to any mobile network and cannot make or receive any phone calls (including emergency calls) or send or receive any SMS or data.

WHAT DO I NEED TO DO?

If you currently have a 2G device, you’ll need to upgrade to a 3G Dual Band or 4G device,  We recommend checking device and coverage at www.optus.com.au/coverage.

WHAT FREQUENCIES DOES THE OPTUS 2G MOBILE NETWORK USE?

The Optus 2G mobile network uses 900 MHz spectrum.

HOW CAN I TELL IF I’M USING A 2G DEVICE?

If you have a 2G device, you’ll only ever notice one of these symbols: 2G, Edge, E or GPRS in the top right hand corner of your phone’s screen (next to the signal strength bars) when it’s switched on.

2G phones are usually older phones that are typically best for talking and texting only. Also, older models only feature basic text screens – and that means you may not even see a 2G icon on your phone.

If you see any of these icons: 3G, H+, 4G or LTE on your phone’s screen, then it means your phone is compatible with our newer network technologies. 3G single band phones will show “3G” when in our 3G 2100 MHz coverage areas, but fall back to 2G outside of these coverage areas.  The latter coverage areas will be lost once 2G is closed down.

WHAT IF I HAVE A 2G SIM?

While 2G SIMs will continue to work in some 3G devices, older SIMs will not fit into new 4G devices. Optus recommends upgrading your 2G SIM card. SIM replacement is free of charge at Optus stores.

ARE ALL 2G DEVICES AFFECTED?

Yes, any device that is 2G only will be affected by this change. This will also include business devices that use 2G machine to machine (M2M) technology (such as some EFTPOS / credit card machines).

WHAT IS A 2G HANDSET?

The list below advises some of the most frequently used 2G handsets, please check to see if you are using one of these devices.

• Samsung GT – C3520
• Samsung GT – E1205T
• Alcatel 2001X
• Nokia 2220s
• Nokia 101
• Nokia 1010
• Nokia 2630
• Nokia 1208
• Nokia 1112
• Nokia 6300
• Nokia 3315
• Nokia 2220s

HOW DO I KNOW IF I'M USING A 3G SINGLE BAND DEVICE?

The manufacturer’s manual that came with your device may provide this information.

3G single band devices use 2G when outside the coverage of our 3G 2100 MHz mobile network. This is often when the 3G single band device is used away from cities and major towns, when on regional roads and highways, or in difficult coverage areas such as basements or underground car parks.  If you notice that your phone shows “3G” when you are outdoors in cities and towns, but almost always shows that it is using 2G, EDGE or GPRS in most other situations, then it is likely that you have a 3G single band phone - but make sure you check on our coverage maps or the manufacturer’s manual.

WHAT IS A 3G SINGLE BAND (2100MHz) DEVICE?

The list below includes some of the most frequently used 3G Single Band (2100MHz) devices. Please check to see if you are using one of these devices.  

3G 2100 Single Band Handsets

• Samsung Galaxy S2 (GT-19100).

Please note that while most are 3G Dual Band U900 capable, there may be some that are not. Please check your Samsung S2 device. 

• Samsung SM-G130H
• Apple iPhone 3GS
• Apple iPad 2 (A1396)
• Nokia Lumia 520 (RM-915)
• Nokia C2-01.5
• Apple iPhone 3G
• Samsung Trend Plus (GT-S7580L)
• Samsung GT-S5310B
• ZTE F286 (This is 900/2100)

WHAT ARE MY OPTIONS ONCE THE 2G NETWORK IS CLOSED?

If you have a 2G device, to continue using the Optus mobile network you’ll need to upgrade to a 3G Dual Band (UMTS 900/2100) or 4G device.  If you have a 2G SIM, you may also need to upgrade that SIM card.

Owners of single band 3G devices may continue to use the Optus 3G 2100 MHz network, however your Optus mobile network coverage will be reduced (depending on where you use the device) and your user experience may be degraded.

If you’re currently using a 3G Single Band device, you may need to upgrade to a 3G dual band (3G3100/900MHz) or 4G device. We recommend checking device and coverage at www.optus.com.au/coverage

Stay tuned for further details on the 2G mobile network closure closer to 1 April 2017.

HOW DO I UPGRADE MY DEVICE?

To get a new 3G Dual Band or 4G device to use on the Optus mobile network from 1 April 2017, you can upgrade via one of the links below.

• Post-Paid Handset Upgrade
• Prepaid Handset Upgrade

WILL I LOSE MOBILE COVERAGE WHEN USING A 2G SIM IN A 3G SINGLE BAND DEVICE?

 3G single band devices use the Optus mobile 3G 2100/ 2G 900 network. Customers with a 2G SIM in a 3G single band device may continue to use the Optus 3G 2100 MHz network, however it is possible their Optus mobile network coverage could be reduced (depending on where they use their device) and their user experience could be degraded.  This is because, from April 1, 2017 the 3G single band device will no longer access a mobile service in current 2G 900MHz locations.  We recommend advising customers to check their 3G device and coverage at www.optus.com.au/coverage.

WHAT BENEFITS WILL I GET AFTER UPGRADING?

Of course, you’ll still be able to make and receive calls. But it’s data where you’ll enjoy a much better experience.

CAN I MAKE CALLS ON THE 4G (LTE) NETWORK?

 Optus has launched VoLTE (Voice over LTE) on selected devices. VoLTE lets you make calls on our 4G Plus network. It’s currently available on selected mobile phones on postpaid plans. Visit this website for more information about VoLTE.

Of course, if all you want is a simple phone to just make and receive phone calls, then we can also help you with that.

ARE PREPAID CUSTOMERS ENTITLED TO A REFUND?

Refunds will be assessed on a case by case basis and will depend on individual circumstances.

HOW WILL THE 2G MOBILE NETWORK SHUT DOWN IMPACT THE OPTUS MOBILE NETWORK EXPERIENCE?

The 2G mobile network shutdown will mean that  2G devices will no longer work on the Optus mobile network. Customers with 2G devices will need to upgrade to 3G Dual Band or 4G devices. Customers using 3G 2100 MHz single band phones may notice a loss in network coverage because their phone cannot connect to our 3G 900MHz mobile network. Customers with 3G single band devices may (depending on where they use their device) need to consider upgrading to a new device

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