About: The 3G Network Phase-out in Canada

Overview

Telecommunications providers in Canada and globally will gradually phase out their 3G networks to make way for more advanced technologies such as 5G, and 5G+.

Starting July 31, 2025, one of our Canadian partners will begin shutting down their 3G network, beginning with the province of Quebec, as well as Ottawa, and it's surrounding areas. Over time, this phase-out will extend across all of Canada.

Travelling abroad? Learn more about: Roaming in destinations without 3G network availability

Emergency services including 9-1-1 calls, will be impacted if your device does not support VoLTE and VoLTE Roaming. To avoid any service disruptions, we strongly recommend upgrading to a newer device that supports these features

What This Means for You

To keep using voice, messaging, and data services without interruption while in the province of Quebec, as well as Ottawa, and it's surrounding areas , your device must support VoLTE and VoLTE roaming. Learn more About: VoLTE

How the 3G phase-out may impact your service will depend on your device:

  • 3G-only Devices: If you are using a device that only supports 3G, you will lose access to use voice, messaging, or data services.

  • 4G LTE Devices: If your 4G LTE device does not support VoLTE and VoLTE Roaming, you will no longer be able to use voice and messaging services, though data services will still work.


You can dial #TEST (#8378) to check if your device is impacted. If you hear a success message, no action is needed. If you hear that your call cannot be completed, it means your device cannot make or receive calls on LTE+ networks, and you'll need to upgrade your device and SIM to continue using voice services.

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How to Ensure Uninterrupted Service

To ensure uninterrupted service, we recommend the following:

  • Use our device compatibility tool to confirm your device supports VoLTE and VoLTE Roaming on the Freedom and Nationwide networks.

  • Make sure your device is running the latest software. For instructions, refer to your device manufacturer’s user guide.

  • Verify that VoLTE is enabled on your device. Newer devices may have VoLTE enabled as default.
    Ensure you’re using a newer SIM Card. Learn more About: Your SIM Card

  • To use VoLTE Roaming you will also need to activate Nationwide, US Roaming, International Roaming and International Calling on your line. Sign into MyAccount and navigate to the Manage Features section to activate these features.

Important: If your device is not compatible with VoLTE and VoLTE Roaming, you’ll need a newer device and SIM card to continue using service while in the province of Quebec, as well as Ottawa, and it's surrounding areas .

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