As the world continues to embrace faster and more reliable mobile networks, it's no surprise that Australia is moving forward with shutting down its 3G network. This transition is essential for the enhancement and expansion of 4G and 5G networks across the country, offering users faster internet speeds, greater connectivity, and an overall better mobile experience. But what does this mean for your devices, and more specifically, your AngelEze AstraFlex watch?
In this post, we'll dive into what's happening with Australia's 3G network shutdown, how it might affect you, and how you can ensure your AngelEze AstraFlex watch stays connected to the 4G network without any interruptions.
What Is Happening to the 3G Network in Australia?
Australia’s major telecommunications providers are officially shutting down their 3G networks in the coming months. Here's the timeline for the 3G closure across the key networks:
- Telstra will close its 3G network on October 28, 2024.
- Optus will also shut down its 3G network on October 28, 2024.
- TPG Telecom/Vodafone already shut down their 3G network in January 2024.
This shutdown is part of a larger effort to make way for the growing demand for faster and more reliable 4G and 5G services. As 3G networks become obsolete, telcos are repurposing the infrastructure to strengthen their 4G and 5G offerings, which ultimately benefits users with better speed, coverage, and connectivity.
How Will I Be Affected?
If you're using devices that depend solely on the 3G network, the impact could be significant. After the 3G shutdown, these devices will no longer work, meaning you won't be able to make phone calls, send texts, or use data unless they are upgraded to support 4G or 5G networks.
Devices that may be affected by the 3G network shutdown include:
- Older mobile phones (especially those without 4G voice calling capabilities)
- Some early 4G devices that rely on 3G for voice calls
- Smartwatches
- Tablets
- In-home personal emergency alarms
- EFTPOS terminals
- Fire and security alarms
If you're unsure whether your device will be affected, it's essential to check. You can use various tools and resources provided by your network operator to see if your device will continue to work post-shutdown.
For phones, you can typically check your device by texting "3" to a specific number or entering your IMEI into a device-checking tool. For other devices, like smartwatches and alarms, you may need to contact your service provider.
Will My AngelEze AstraFlex Watch Continue to Work on 4G?
Good news! If you own an AngelEze AstraFlex watch, you won't need to worry about the 3G network shutdown affecting your device. The AstraFlex watch is fully compatible with 4G networks, meaning it will continue to work smoothly without any issues once the 3G network is gone.
That being said, we are aware that some users may hear an Interactive Voice Response (IVR) or a recorded message when they make a call from their AstraFlex watch. If this happens, don't be alarmed. This message plays because the AstraFlex watch is not yet officially affiliated with a specific telecom operator in Australia. However, rest assured that we are working on address any issues that may impact the use of the AstraFlex watch.
To avoid any confusion, simply let the voice message finish, and your call should proceed as normal.
What Are the Settings to Ensure My AstraFlex Watch Is Always Connected to 4G?
While your AstraFlex watch is designed to work on 4G networks, there are a few simple steps you can take to ensure that it remains connected to 4G at all times. This is especially important if you're worried about your watch being affected after the 3G shutdown.
Here’s how to ensure your AngelEze AstraFlex watch is always connected to 4G:
-
Enable VoLTE (Voice over LTE):
VoLTE allows your device to make voice calls over the 4G network, which is crucial for maintaining call quality and connection after the 3G shutdown. To enable this feature on your AstraFlex watch, follow these steps:- Go to the Settings menu on your watch.
- Select Mobile Networks or Cellular Networks (depending on your device).
- Ensure that VoLTE is turned on.
-
Ensure 000 Emergency Calls Work via 4G: It's important to make sure that emergency calls to Triple Zero (000) can be made over the 4G network once the 3G network is no longer available. To do this, follow these steps:
- On your AstraFlex watch, dial *#*#4636#*#*
- This will open a settings menu with advanced options.
- Select Phone Information and scroll down.
- From the available network options, choose LTE only.
By selecting "LTE only," you'll ensure that your watch stays connected to 4G and can make emergency calls without reverting to 3G.
-
Monitor Connectivity: After making the changes, we recommend testing your watch to ensure that it remains connected to 4G, especially for voice calls. You can do this by making a test call to confirm that VoLTE is working as expected.
What if I continue to face issue or receive an email from a telecom operator saying your device is not supported?
There maybe cases where the 4G capability is not recognised by the operator. If you face any issue or receive any email or text message from your telecom operator stating that your device is not supported, please reach out to us on customer.service@angeleze.com.au
Conclusion
The 3G network shutdown is a significant change in Australia's telecommunications landscape, but it's a positive one that will pave the way for faster, more reliable 4G and 5G services. While this change may affect older devices, you can rest easy knowing that your AngelEze AstraFlex watch is fully compatible with 4G networks.
By following the simple steps outlined above, you can ensure that your AstraFlex watch stays connected to 4G and remains fully functional, even after the 3G shutdown.
Stay connected, stay safe, and enjoy the seamless experience of the AngelEze AstraFlex watch, even as the 3G network becomes a thing of the past.
