Canadian providers are gradually disabling the 3G network to free up frequencies and invest in 4G/5G networks. These faster and more energy-efficient networks improve call quality (via VoLTE), internet speeds, and support new technologies (IoT, autonomous vehicles, etc.).
When will your provider disable 3G?
Rogers, Fido, and Chatr plan a complete network shutdown by July 31, 2025. A monthly $3 “legacy network” fee will apply to late adopters on Rogers and Fido.
Vidéotron, Fizz, and Freedom Mobile align their schedule with Rogers, with a progressive shutdown starting July 31, 2025 in Quebec and Eastern Canada.
Bell and Virgin Mobile will begin with Manitoba: October 31, 2025 for residential customers and December 31, 2025 for businesses. No dates have been confirmed for Quebec and the rest of Canada.
Telus, Koodo, and Public Mobile keep their timeline confidential but promise a 12-month notice.
What will happen when the 3G network is shut down?
As soon as the network is shut down, incompatible phones will no longer be able to dial 911. This critical situation also affects international visitors with 3G devices. Some providers remind that a free upgrade is often offered to vulnerable customers—especially those with medical devices.
Which devices are affected by the 3G shutdown in Canada?
Devices that are 3G-only (without 4G/VoLTE compatibility) will lose all mobile functions (calls, SMS, data, even 911!). Affected devices include:
Old models: Nokia 5110, BlackBerry 7210, Samsung Galaxy S III, iPhone 4/4S.
Recent basic phones: Alcatel Go Flip 3 (without VoLTE), some LG models (K41S), and 4G devices without activatable VoLTE like the Motorola Moto E6 or Samsung Galaxy A01.
Imported devices not compatible with Canadian frequencies (e.g., some Huawei P30 models).
Start by contacting your provider via their customer service or website. For phones, a simple method exists: dial *#06# to get your IMEI, then compare it to compatibility lists published by manufacturers.
Here are some compatible models:
| Brand | 4G/VoLTE (and 5G) Compatible Models |
|---|---|
| Apple | iPhone 6 and newer (iPhone 6/6S/7/8/X/SE/11/12/13/14/15/16) |
| Samsung | Galaxy S6–S25, Galaxy A10e/A12/A14/A21/A32/A50/A51/A52/A53/A54/A71/A90, Galaxy Note8–Note20 Ultra, Galaxy Z Flip/Fold (5G versions) |
| Pixel 6/6a/6 Pro, 7/7 Pro/7a, 8/8 Pro, (and likely Pixel 9) | |
| Motorola | Moto E6, G7 Play, G Pure, G100; Moto G 5G (2022–2025), Edge (2021–2025) |
What to do if my phone is incompatible?
- Enable VoLTE if possible: in settings, turn on VoLTE / LTE Calls, then restart your phone.
- Change your SIM card: ask your provider for an LTE/VoLTE-compatible SIM if yours is old.
- Replace your device: if your old phone doesn’t support VoLTE, you will need to switch to a 4G or 5G smartphone.
How to enable VoLTE to keep using my phone?
If your device is compatible but not configured, follow these steps:
iPhone (iOS 17+):
Settings → Cellular → Options → “Voice & Data” → Select “LTE”. Restart the device.Samsung (One UI):
Settings → Connections → Mobile Networks → “VoLTE Calls” → Enable.Google Pixel / Stock Android:
Settings → Network & Internet → Mobile Network → “VoLTE”.Get a phone for $0: Some providers offer mobile plans that include a device at no extra cost.
Note: iPhones starting with the 6S and Samsung Galaxy S10+ enable VoLTE by default with recent updates.
3G vs 4G vs 5G Comparison: What Changes with the 3G Shutdown
With 3G being retired by the end of 2025, its limited speed (a few Mbps with latency of 100 to 500 ms) can no longer meet current needs. In contrast, 4G/VoLTE offers 50–100 Mbps on average with reduced latency (~30–50 ms), and 5G, currently being deployed, can reach 250 Mbps up to several Gbps with ultra-low latency (1–10 ms).
| Aspect | 3G (phasing out) | 4G (LTE + VoLTE) | 5G |
|---|---|---|---|
| Status in Canada | Phasing out progressively. | Main network currently, preparing to cover all VoLTE devices. | Deployment ongoing since 2020 (Rogers, Telus, Vidéotron, etc.) |
| Why it’s changing | Frees spectrum, reduces costs, retires old equipment. | Uses reallocated 3G spectrum, improves service. | Enables future uses, massive IoT, VR/AR, very low latency. |
| Voice (calls) | End of service: no calls, SMS, or 911 access. | Calls via VoLTE or VoLTE/5G network, HD quality. Requires compatible device and SIM. | Calls also via VoLTE/5G, no voice impact if device compatible. |
| Data / Speed | ~3–5 Mbps, congested network, high latency (~100–500 ms). | 50–100 Mbps, latency ~30–100 ms, smooth HD streaming & video calls. | 250 Mbps to several Gbps peak, latency <10 ms, ideal for demanding apps. |
| Coverage & Reliability | Very good in rural/urban areas, but obsolete. | Very dense, stable, good indoor/outdoor coverage. | Expanding: very fast in urban areas, limited mmWave range, needs small cells. |
| Typical uses | Basic calls, SMS, simple browsing. | HD streaming, video conferencing, mobile gaming. | VR/AR, IoT, connected cars, telemedicine, fast downloads. |
Which phone should I choose to stay connected after the 3G shutdown?
Easily compare with Planhub.ca to find a cell phone plan that suits you, including a 4G/5G smartphone compatible with VoLTE.
