Canadian telecoms are shutting down their 3G wireless networks

Telus and Bell have separately shared plans to shut down 3G service in parts of Manitoba, which suggests a full Canada-wide shutdown is coming.

Bell has a new support page on its website that says that "Later this year, we'll take the first steps towards discontinuing our 3G/HSPA network in order to improve our 4G/LTE and 5G networks. These updates will affect service for 3G/HSPA device users as well as customers with non-VoLTE (Voice over LTE) capable devices."

According to the company, Manitoba customers will lose access to 3G on December 31, 2025. Customers will need to update to a newer device that supports VoLTE. The telecom also notes that devices that don't support LTE will lose access to 9-1-1.

You also need to be aware that LTE support doesn't necessarily mean VoLTE support. Moreover, not all devices with VoLTE will work with all networks. OnePlus phones had issues with Rogers' 3G shutdown.

You can use Bell's VoLTE web tool to check if your device is compatible with its network.

While Bell never outright said that it plans to shut down its 3G service across Canada, it did say "We strongly encourage all our customers to begin planning their migration to next-generation 4G/LTE VoLTE and 5G/5G+ devices."

Like Rogers, Bell will charge select customers who need to stay on 3G a $3 monthly fee.

Telus/Koodo/Public Mobile 3G Shutdown

The shutdown at Telus is very similar to Bell's, but it will occur in two phases: The first phase will take place in rural Manitoba around Winnipeg and Brandon, which will happen on December 31, 2025. The second phase will take place in Winnipeg and Brandon, and is set for March 31, 2026. Telus has a full breakdown and maps of the areas on its website. 

Once the rollback of 3G begins, you'll need a new device that supports VoLTE. You can see if your device is able to use the service on Telus' VoLTE website. You'll need the IMEI number of your device to use this site.

You can learn everything about Telus's 3G shutdown on its support page. The carrier says, "All new devices sold by TELUS in 2018 or later and most sold in Canada will work on the TELUS VoLTE network."

Other facts

Rogers and Freedom have already begun shutting down their 3G networks this summer, too. Many carriers in the U.S. have done the same.

The CRTC has a fact sheet regarding the 3G shutdown on its website.

Some OnePlus phones had issues with Rogers' 3G shutdown, so be aware if you have an older phone from that company, or a phone from other manufacturers that aren't sold by Canadian carriers.