Singtel, StarHub, M1 Phasing Out 3G by July 2024 to Free Spectrum for 5G

Singapore is getting ready to bid 3G goodbye.

Credit: Wix

Singtel, StarHub and M1 are reportedly phasing out 3G services in the country by 31 July 2024, including voice, messaging and data services that run on the mobile communication standard.

The move is meant to free up spectrum to improve 5G services, which is the current mobile communication standard across the globe.

"With the retirement of 3G networks, mobile operators will be able to repurpose some of the freed-up spectrum to improve 5G services, which offer faster speeds, higher data throughput, as well as enhanced security and reliability," the three network operators said.

There are about 100,000 individual 3G subscribers across the Singtel, StarHub and M1 in Singapore who are going to be affected by the shutdown of services. The three operators, however, plan to provide support to these remaining subscribers and help them transition to 4G or 5G networks.

Subscribers have the option to convert their 3G plan to 4G on terms that won't leave them worse off. The operators would also provide a range of mobile phone options at different price points to further support that transition.

Credit: Digital News Asia

Retailers, meanwhile, can no longer sell 3G mobile phones and 4G models requiring 3G for voice calls starting 1 Feb 2024.

"This one-year transition period is given to allow mobile network operators to adequately engage and migrate their remaining 3G subscribers before retiring their 3G services," said the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA).

The IMDA is also pushing the remaining subscribers to reach out to their respective network operators for more information or any assistance they might need for the transition.

Many countries have already phased out 3G services, with each succeeding generation launching with more advanced features and faster data transfer rates. These countries include the U.S. and Malaysia. There are also other countries that similarly plan to retire the standard next year, including Australia and Britain.

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• Singtel, StarHub and M1 are phasing out 3G services in the country by 31 July 2024, including voice, messaging and data services that run on the mobile communication standard.

• The move is meant to free up spectrum to improve 5G services, which is the current mobile communication standard across the globe.

• Subscribers have the option to convert their 3G plan to 4G on terms that won't leave them worse off.

• The operators would also provide a range of mobile phone options at different price points to further support that transition.