Things to know about our 3G shutdown

We're switching off 3G from late 2025

Warehouse Mobile’s network is powered by 2degrees. From the end of 2025, all mobile networks across New Zealand will begin shutting down 3G services, focusing on enhancing 4G services and supporting the growth of 5G technology.

You might already be using 4G for voice calls, texts and data. If that's the case, you may still need to update your device settings. Not sure if your phone is 4G voice capable? To keep connected after the 3G shutdown you’ll need to check. There are 3 simple ways to check so choose the one that works for you.

Will I be impacted by the 3G shutdown?

    • How to check if your phone is 4G capable:
    • Text ‘3G’ to 550 to check if your phone is 4G capable
    • If you purchased your phone from The Warehouse, Warehouse Stationery or Noel Leeming, you can check our device list (link to list) See 4G voice capable phones and roaming details
    • Use our IMEI checker This is a 15-digit number that can be found by dialling *#06# (link to IMEI FAQ below)
  • What do I do if I don’t have a 4G capable phone?
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    Depending on the exact impact the 3G shutdown will have on your phone, you may need to upgrade your phone to ensure you stay connected. We offer a range of affordable 4G and 5G ready phones instore or online.  

    Note:  Your old phone won’t work as it should after the shutdown, so please don’t pass it on to someone else. Drop off your unwanted phone in-store at The Warehouse, Warehouse Stationery or Noel Leeming so our team can recycle it safely and responsibly.
    • I have a 4G capable phone do I need to do anything?
    • Even if you have a 4G capable phone, you may still need to take one or two extra steps to be sure you keep connected after the 3G shutdown.
    • Update your software
    • First, we’d recommend that you make sure your phone has the latest software update.
    • iPhone: Go to Settings > General > Software Update
    • Android: Go to Settings > Software Update
    • Switching on VoLTE in your settings
    • If you’ve checked your device is 4G voice capable, and your phone software has been updated, you may still need to switch ‘VoLTE’ on in your settings.
    • iPhone: Go to Settings > Mobile > Mobile Data Options > Voice and Data > Ensure 5G or 4G is ticked (dependent on phone capability) and that VoLTE toggle is enabled.
    • Samsung: Go to Settings > Connections > Mobile networks, ensure network mode is set as 5G or 4G auto connect (dependent on phone capability) and VoLTE calls are enabled.
    • Other Android: Go to Settings > Mobile networks > select SIM, ensure network mode is set as 5G or 4G auto connect (dependent on phone capability) and VoLTE calls are enabled.
    • Note: More detailed instructions including dual SIM settings can be found here.
    • If you’ve got a 4G calling capable device and you’ve switched on ‘VoLTE’ in your settings you're all set there’s nothing more to do!

3G Shutdown FAQs

What is 3G?

In NZ, there are three mobile network operators (2degrees, Spark, and One NZ) that use Radio Access Network (RAN) tech for their services. Over time, this technology evolves and improves, and we refer to this as different generations or ‘G’s. Warehouse Mobile’s network is powered by 2degrees.

Currently, mobile networks in NZ have a mix of third, fourth, and fifth generation technologies, called 3G, 4G, and 5G. Most new phones work with 3G, 4G, and 5G, but some older phones only work with 3G. As newer tech rolls out, older generations, like 2G and 3G, get phased out to make way for faster networks.

Why are you shutting down the 3G network?

It's been a great run since 3G was introduced in 2009, but the future lies in the faster 4G and 5G networks. We're upgrading to make sure you're hooked up with top-notch connectivity! Many mobile operators worldwide are starting to or have already shut down their 3G networks to make room for improvements to 4G and 5G networks.

Which services are impacted by the 3G shutdown?

A ‘4G capable’ device is one that supports calling, texting, and data services over the 4G network. If your device is not fully 4G capable, it will not work as it should after 3G is switched off. This includes the ability to:
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  • Make phone calls
  • Send or receive messages
  • Make emergency calls to ‘111’ on the 2degrees network
  • Use data or connect to the internet.
What if my area only has 3G right now?

There are a small number of areas where only 3G is available today. As part of the 3G shutdown, we are committed to rolling out 4G at every existing 3G site prior to decommissioning the 3G network.

Can I still use my phone overseas?

Mobile operators in some countries like the USA and Australia, are either starting to or have already shut down their 3G networks.

From 28 October 2024, all 3G networks in Australia have shutdown. Without an up-to-date phone, you won't be able to use voice services while roaming. To avoid any issues, check your phone is VoLTE roaming capable before your trip. Find out which overseas countries have VoLTE when roaming.

Why does my phone support 4G calling but I’ve been told to upgrade?

Some phones support 4G calling but not in areas where low band spectrum is used which is primarily in rural areas. We’d recommended upgrading to a fully 4G capable phone or you won't be able to make or receive calls in these areas following the 3G Shutdown.

I confirmed my IMEI using the checker and my device is not recognised. What can I do?

If your device was not purchased from Warehouse Mobile, we cannot confirm or guarantee support for 4G Voice and you will need to contact your place of purchase or the device manufacturer directly.

Will my medical alarm or monitored security alarm work?

If you’re using medical or security alarms, they might still be relying on 3G technology. If you're concerned your alarm may be impacted, please check with your current device provider to ensure it’s up to date and compatible with 4G.

As a vulnerable person with a mobile provided by a Mobile Network Provider, what do I do?

For those with a Vulnerable Consumers Registration, no action is required at this time.  Your Mobile Network Providers dedicated care teams will provide assistance and ensure that the phone you’ve been provided with is good to go.  If you have questions, get in touch with your mobile provider.

What do I do if I need help?

If you need a hand simply call Customer Care on 0800 284800.  

‍IMEI Checker
Enter the first 8 digits of your phone’s IMEI number below. This is a 15-digit number that can be found by dialling *#06#, in your device settings, or printed on your phone.

‍Note: Ensure there are no spaces between the numbers, and when typing your IMEI number don't include the word 'IMEI'. Your phone’s 15-digit IMEI number

‍Check IMEI
Please note that while your phone may support calls using VoLTE (Voice over 4G), we cannot guarantee emergency calls will go through if your phone was not purchased from an authorised New Zealand reseller.  

We recommend contacting your reseller or the device manufacturer directly to confirm whether your phone supports both 4G calling and emergency calls over the 4G network.