The Jackson County Central Dispatch (JCCD) wants to inform the community and persons we serve that the end of 3G wireless connection is rapidly approaching. Wireless carriers will discontinue support of 3G devices in December 2022. Older style 3G models of Tracfones, flip phones, Jitterbugs, etc. are going to start falling off networks sooner than later. 3G devices will not only be disabled from normal use – they will also be unable to dial or call 9-1-1. So even if you or a loved one has been keeping a 3G device for 9-1-1 purposes only, eventually it will no longer work at all.
Jackson County Central Dispatch/9-1-1 asks everyone to check their device and/or help loved ones to ensure you remain connected to each other and so you’ll always be able to reach 9-1-1 in the event of an emergency.
How do you identify if you have a 3G device
Locate your phone’s IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number
Every mobile phone, GSM modem or device with a built-in phone / modem has a unique 15 digit IMEI number. Your phone's IMEI number can be identified one of two ways:
1. On a smartphone in the “About” tab of settings
2. From the phone’s keypad by pressing *#06# This will display a Device Info, where you can retrieve your IMEI number
Use the IMEI Number to Identify Device
Visit https://www.imei.info This site will provide details on the phone and the network it is set up for. 3G networks use frequencies at 900Mhz or 2100Mhz.
Additional information from Carriers
- AT&T - https://bit.ly/3E3DVsL
- When AT&T will be decommissioning its 3G network (which will be February 2022).
- Other relevant information related to AT&T’s decommissioning of its 3G network.
- A list of supported and unsupported devices after AT&T decommissions its 3G network.
- Verizon - https://bit.ly/2X2Ien8
- When Verizon will be decommissioning its 3G network (which will be December 31, 2022).
- Other relevant information related to Verizon’s decommissioning of its 3G network.
- T-Mobile - https://bit.ly/3yWNqWR
- When Sprint will be decommissioning its 3G network (which will be January 1, 2022).
- When Sprint will be decommissioning its LTE network (which will be June 30, 2022).
- And per the link, no date has been set for the decommissioning of T-Mobile’s 3G network.
- Other relevant information related to Sprint’s/T-Mobile’s decommissioning efforts.
News Coverage on Being Prepared For 3G End
On August 26, 2021 the Detroit Free Press published a story informing how to stay prepared, and to ensure the safety net people have in place will continue after 3G's end. For more details: https://www.freep.com/story/news/2021/08/26/3-g-networks-phase-out-911-emergency-calls-what-to-do/5583777001/
