Rhode Island State Police remind residents of 3G phaseout

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) – The Rhode Island State Police wanted to remind Rhode Islanders that 911 calls may not connect as mobile carriers phase 3G out of their systems.

“We want to make sure that all Rhode Islanders are aware that the 3G phaseout will impact their ability to call 911,” said Colonel James M. Manni, Superintendent of the Rhode Island State Police and Director of the Department of Public Safety. “If you have an older mobile phone, you may need to upgrade your device to ensure that you have coverage and access to 911.”

On January 1, 2022, carriers will begin to shut down all of their 3G services in exchange for more complex networking services. Older phones will be unable to use data, make calls, or texts, even calls to 911. This will effect all 3G phones, as well as some 4G phones that do not support voice over LTE.

Residents are advised to contact their mobile carrier about how their phone could be effect by the phaseout.