3G/HSPA service shut down - Virgin Plus

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3G/HSPA service shut down

3G / HSPA Service Discontinuation Overview

Starting February 2022, wireless carriers in the U.S. will begin phasing out their 3G / HSPA wireless network service in the U.S (including Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands). Here are the latest updates on Virgin Plus’ roaming partners’ 3G / HSPA network discontinuance:

  • AT&T has officially announced that its 3G / HSPA network service will be discontinued February 20221.
  • T-Mobile has officially announced that its 3G / HSPA network service will be discontinued as of July 20222.

The discontinuation of service will impact Canadian wireless subscribers (including Virgin Plus members) who are travelling in the U.S. and using devices that do not support 4G LTE data and Voice over LTE (VoLTE) roaming for voice services.

For questions regarding the 3G / HSPA service discontinuation in the U.S. or to upgrade your device click here.

1 When the AT&T 3G / HSPA network is discontinued, customers will have access to T-Mobile’s 3G / HSPA network or another available roaming partner in the U.S. until it has been discontinued.
2 After T-Mobile discontinues service, customers will continue to be able to roam in the U.S where 3G / 2G service is available on another roaming partner but there is no guarantee of roaming coverage for impacted devices.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • Domestic 3G/HSPA network shut down

    Upcoming service changes in Manitoba

    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 members with non-VoLTE (Voice over LTE) capable devices.

    Members will have until October 31, 2025, to upgrade to a 4G/LTE, 5G or 5G+ device in order to make phone calls (using VoLTE), send texts or use data services (e.g. connecting to the Internet, using mobile apps and email).

    Note: If you don’t upgrade your device, you won’t be able to make emergency calls to 9-1-1 beyond this date.

    Evolution of 3G/HSPA and its impacts

    Technology, devices and usage have changed significantly since Virgin Plus launched our 3G/HSPA network. In an ongoing effort to improve the customer experience, Virgin Plus is upgrading our wireless network across the province of Manitoba.

    As part of this process, parts of our 3G/HSPA network will be upgraded to 4G/LTE, which will improve network speed and capacity.

    This will affect older wireless devices that rely solely on 3G/HSPA technology, resulting in the loss of data and/or voice connectivity services (including access to 9-1-1 emergency services).

    To ensure proper service continuity, we recommend you upgrade to a device that supports 4G/LTE or 5G and, at minimum, 4G/LTE VoLTE capabilities for phone calls.


    Frequently asked questions

    1. Since Rogers is retiring their 3G network, will Virgin Plus discontinue 3G/HSPA services in Canada?

      We continue to examine opportunities to upgrade our networks. At present, Virgin Plus plans to discontinue our 3G/HSPA services in Manitoba.

      As other opportunities for network upgrades arise, we’ll notify impacted customers to ensure proper service continuity and to avoid any service disruptions.

      We strongly encourage all our members to begin planning their migration to next-generation 4G/LTE VoLTE and 5G devices – including smart phones, modems, dongles, tablets and Internet of Things (IoT) devices – to benefit from faster speeds and the next generation of services.

    2. Are 3G/HSPA services available globally?

      Major mobile operators worldwide, including Verizon and AT&T in the United States and the United Kingdom, have either already shut down or are actively transitioning away from 3G/HSPA services.

      This shift in the industry is driven by the need to provide subscribers with improved network performance, increased reliability and access to a broader range of applications that demand higher bandwidth.

      Depending on the device type, members may be impacted when travelling in the U.S. or globally.

      To avoid any connectivity issues while travelling, we recommend confirming that your device supports access to the latest networks. Explore our selection of the latest devices.

    3. What devices or services will be impacted once 3G/HSPA services are shut down?

      3G/HSPA-only devices
      • Voice (including emergency calls to 9-1-1) and text services will no longer work if you’re travelling in areas where 3G/HSPA services are no longer offered.
      • Data services (e.g. connecting to the Internet, using mobile apps and email) will no longer work if you’re travelling in areas where 3G/HSPA services are no longer offered.
      • IoT devices operating on the 3G/HSPA network (including modems, sensors and other devices and solutions – e.g. alarm panels, point of sale machines, vending machines, fleet and tank monitoring solutions etc.) will no longer work in areas where 3G/HSPA services are no longer offered.
      4G/LTE devices that do not support VoLTE services
      • Voice (including emergency calls to 9-1-1) and text services will no longer work if you’re travelling in areas where 3G/HSPA services are no longer offered.
      • Data services (e.g. connecting to the Internet, using mobile apps and email) however, will continue to work if you’re travelling in areas where 3G/HSPA services are no longer offered.

    4. How do I determine what type of device they have?

      Visit the Get To Know Your Phone or Tablet page to determine your device capabilities.

    5. What are the benefits of Virgin Plus 4G/LTE VoLTE technologies?

      Upgrading to 4G/LTE VoLTE or 5G/5G+ devices offers numerous advantages, including:
      • Faster data speeds for browsing and video/live streaming, enabling high bandwidth demanding applications and IoT use cases/li>
      • Access to a wider range of advanced mobile applications and services/li>
      • Enabling IoT use cases for business applications that require consistent monitoring of equipment

      The 5G/5G+ network offers unparalleled connectivity speeds. Having the latest compatible devices allows you to be ready for what’s to come.

      Explore the latest 4G/LTE, 5G and 5G+ devices from Virgin Plus.
  • Will the US 3G / HSPA network discontinuance affect my service in Canada?

    No. Coverage on the Virgin network is not impacted by the US 3G / HSPA network discontinuance. Your phone can still be used as normal when in Canada.

  • What is a 3G / HSPA wireless network?

    3G / HSPA refers to a third generation of wireless access standards that allows devices to connect to the internet and to place and receive voice calls. 3G / HSPA was introduced in the early 2000s and has been followed by 4G LTE and, most recently, by the newest generation of wireless standards, 5G.

  • What is Voice over LTE (VoLTE) Roaming?

    Voice over LTE (VoLTE) is the next generation of voice calling which enables faster call connection times and improved voice quality service.

    VoLTE capable smartphones will enable you to make and receive calls when in a 4G LTE coverage area.

    Visit VoLTE U.S. Roaming for further details.

    If you have an older 4G LTE device you may need to update your device software. Click here for more details on the latest software your device supports and how to download if required.

  • How will my service be impacted once AT&T and T-Mobile discontinues their 3G / HSPA network in the U.S?

    As a Virgin Plus Member travelling to the U.S. your device must be able to support 4G LTE data, as well as, be able to support Voice over LTE (VoLTE) and VoLTE roaming in order for voice calls to continue to be supported in the U.S. after the 3G / HSPA service discontinuation dates.

    If your device only supports 3G / HSPA network access, you will not be able to use voice services (including 9-1-1), connect to the internet, or use mobile data services on AT&T and T-Mobile networks once their 3G / HSPA network services are discontinued.

    In addition, if you have a 4G LTE device, you will also be impacted, as you will not be able to use voice services in these areas. Data services will still be accessible when in a 4G LTE network area on AT&T or T-Mobile.

  • Based on my device type, what services are impacted by the 3G / HSPA US network service discontinuation?

    3G / HSPA Only

    Voice (including emergency calls to 9-1-1) and data services will no longer continue to be supported on AT&T and T-Mobile starting as of the dates above.

    Data services (e.g. connecting to the internet, using mobile apps and email) will no longer be supported on AT&T and T-Mobile starting as of the dates above.

    Validate if your device is a 3G / HSPA only impacted device.

    Important: the following devices (but not limited to) will be affected by the changes to the 3G / HSPA network:

     

    iPhone 3G
    iPhone 3GS
    iPhone 4
    iPhone 4S
    9000
    9700
    9780
    Bold (9700)
    Bold (9780)
    Bold (9790)
    Bold (9900)
    Curve (9300)
    Curve (9320)
    Curve (9360)
    Curve (9380)
    Pearl (9100)
    Torch (9800)
    Torch (9810)
    Torch (9860)
    W35 Turbo Hub
    Incredible S
    Legend
    PC10120
    PD29130
    PJ40110
    PK76110
    PL01130
    PM59110
    Wildfire S
    Z710a Sensation
    Ascend Y300
    Ascend Y530
    E 182
    Y201
    AD600
    C440
    Eclipse
    Electronics LG-T320g
    F4Nr
    GR500R,GR500B,GR500FD
    Nexus 4
    Optimus
    Optimus L1 II
    Optimus L5
    Optimus L5 II
    Optimus Net
    Optimus Quantum
    Rumor Plus
    Bullet 3G
    Atrix
    Dext
    Elway
    Moto G
    Motoluxe
    RAZR V
    Solana
    2730c-1b
    6350-1d
    7130-1c
    7230-1c
    C2-01
    C6
    C6-01
    N97
    Expedite E371
    MiFi 2372
    U547
    U950D (USB)
    U998
    X950D (ExpressCard)
    GTM689W
    Callisto
    G3 (Virgin)
    Galaxy
    Galaxy Ace II X
    Galaxy Discover
    Galaxy Gear S
    Galaxy Gio
    Galaxy Nexus
    Galaxy Rugby
    Galaxy S
    Galaxy SII
    Galaxy Tab 10.1
    Galaxy Tablet
    Galaxy W
    Galaxy with Google
    Gravity Touch
    GT-I9020A
    Impact
    Momo
    Omnia 2
    Omnia Pro
    Rugby 3
    Rugby 4
    Rugby II
    S275
    Wave
    MC7700
    MC8700
    MC8704
    MC8705
    MC8790
    MC8790V
    SL8090
    XP1520 BOLT SL
    XP5520-A-R1/Sonim XP5520-A-R2/Sonim XP5560-A-R1/Sonim XP5520-A-X2 (P35F008AA)
    XP5560 BOLT 2 IS
    XP5560-A-R4(P35F009AA)
    XP5560-A-R5 (P35F008BA),Sonim XP5560-A-R6 (P35F008BA)
    XP5560-A-R5(P35F008BA)
    Xperia E1
    Xperia J
    Xperia M
    Idol Mini
    Idol X
    One Touch P310A
    H24 NA DB/2100 (formerly known as Motorola H24 NA DB/2100)
    H24 NA TRI (formerly known as Motorola H24 NA TRI)
    HE910-D
    Grand X
    WF721

    4G LTE

    Voice services (including emergency calls to 9-1-1) will no longer continue to be supported on AT&T and T-Mobile starting as of the dates above.

    Data services (e.g. connecting to the internet, using mobile apps and email) will continue to be supported when in 4G LTE network coverage on AT&T and T-Mobile (standard roaming data charges apply).

    Validate if your device a 4G LTE impacted device.

    Important: the following devices (but not limited to) will be affected by the changes to the 3G / HSPA network:

     

    A30 Tablet (8")
    Alcatel 1
    Link Hub
    LinkKey
    U50
    iPad (8th generation)
    iPad 4
    iPad 5
    iPad 6
    iPad 7
    iPad Air
    iPad Air 2
    iPad Air 3
    iPad Air 4
    iPad Mini
    iPad Mini 2
    iPad Mini 3
    iPad Mini 4
    iPad Mini 5
    iPad Pro
    iPad Pro 10.5
    iPad Pro 11-inch
    iPad Pro 11-inch (2nd generation)
    iPad Pro 11-inch (3rd generation)
    iPad Pro 12.9
    iPad Pro 12.9-inch (4th generation)
    iPad Pro 12.9-inch (5th generation)
    iPad Pro 12.9-inch 3rd generation
    iPad Pro 9.7
    iPhone 5
    iPhone 5C
    iPhone 5S
    iPhone 6
    iPhone 6 Plus
    Classic
    DTEK50
    KEY2
    KEY2 LE
    KEYone
    Leap
    Motion
    Passport
    PlayBook 4G LTE
    PRIV
    Q10
    Q5
    Z10
    Z30
    824
    824C
    L850-GL
    Pixel
    Pixel 2
    Pixel 2 XL
    Pixel 3
    Pixel 3 XL
    Pixel 3a
    Pixel 3a XL
    Pixel 4
    Pixel 4 XL
    Pixel 4a
    Pixel XL
    0PJA110_B
    10
    Desire 510
    Desire 601
    Desire 626s
    One
    One M8
    PM23300
    Raider 4G LTE
    B882
    E397
    E8372
    MediaPad T3 10
    Nexus 6P
    Nova Plus
    P10
    P10 Lite
    P20
    P20 Pro
    P30 lite
    Duraforce
    DuraXE
    G2
    G3
    G4
    G4 Vigor
    G5
    G6
    G8X ThinQ
    K30
    K4
    K4 2017
    Nexus 5
    Nexus 5X
    Optimus 4G LTE
    Optimus G
    Q Stylo+
    Q6
    Q60
    Q70
    Stylo 3 Plus
    V20
    V30
    X Power
    X Power 2
    X Power 3
    LARA-R202
    Atrix HD LTE
    Moto E
    Moto E5 Play
    Moto E6 Play
    Moto G Fast
    Moto G3
    Moto G4 Play
    Moto G4 Plus
    Moto G5
    Moto G6 Play
    Moto G7 Play
    Moto One Vision
    Moto X Play
    Moto Z, VE12657645
    Moto Z2 Play
    Moto Z3 Play
    Nexus 6
    One Hyper
    763 Turbo Hotspot 4G LTE
    Arlo Go
    Orbi 4G LTE Advanced Tri-band Router
    Lumia 830
    MiFi 2
    MiFi 6630
    MiFi 7000
    U679 4G LTE
    EC25-AF
    ATIV S 4G LTE
    Galaxy A5
    Galaxy A5 (2017)
    Galaxy A8 (2018)
    Galaxy Alpha
    Galaxy Core LTE
    Galaxy Grand Prime
    Galaxy J3
    Galaxy J3 (2018)
    Galaxy J3 Prime
    Galaxy Mega
    Galaxy Note 3
    Galaxy Note 4
    Galaxy Note 5
    Galaxy Note 7
    Galaxy Note 8
    Galaxy Note 8.0
    Galaxy Note Edge
    Galaxy Note II
    Galaxy Rugby LTE
    Galaxy S3
    Galaxy S4
    Galaxy S4 Mini
    Galaxy S5
    Galaxy S5 Active
    Galaxy S5 Neo
    Galaxy S6
    Galaxy S6 Edge
    Galaxy S6 Edge+
    Galaxy S7
    Galaxy S7 Edge
    Galaxy S8
    Galaxy S8+
    Galaxy SII HD LTE
    Galaxy Tab 8.9 LTE
    Galaxy Tab A
    Galaxy Tab A 10.5
    Galaxy Tab A 8.4
    Galaxy Tab Active 2
    Galaxy Tab Active 3
    Galaxy Tab Active PRO
    Galaxy Tab E
    Galaxy Tab S
    Galaxy Tab S 8.4
    Galaxy Tab S2
    Galaxy Tab S2 VE
    Galaxy XCover Pro
    Note 4G LTE
    SM-J120W
    Tab A 8.0
    XCover4
    AC313U 4G LTE
    AirLink LX60
    MC7354
    MC7455
    U330 4G LTE Turbo Stick
    EX02
    Smart-Ex 01(L12V012BB)
    XP3
    XP5
    XP5S
    XP7700 XP7
    XP8
    Xperia E1
    Xperia E3
    Xperia M4 Aqua
    Xperia SP
    Xperia T
    Xperia T3
    Xperia X Performance
    Xperia XA
    Xperia XZ1
    Xperia XZ2
    Xperia Z
    Xperia Z Ultra
    Xperia Z1
    Xperia Z2
    Xperia Z2 Tablet
    Xperia Z3
    Xperia Z3 Compact
    Xperia Z5
    Xperia Z5 Premium
    Xperia ZL
    10L
    10Pro
    A50
    Alcatel 1B
    Alcatel 1X
    Go Flip
    Idol 3
    Idol 4
    Pixi (4.5)
    Pixi 4
    Pop7 LTE
    Idol 2 S
    LE910-NA v2
    LM940
    LN930
    UV350
    Axon 7 Mini
    Blade A3 L
    Cymbal 2
    Grand X View
    Grand X View 2
    Grand X View 3
    Grand X2 Z850
    MF275R
    MF288
    MF993C
    WF723CA
    Z557BL

     

    4G LTE (with VoLTE roaming capability)

    No impact on data services or voice calling when in 4G LTE network coverage on AT&T and T-Mobile (Standard roaming charges apply).

  • What do I need to do in order to ensure I am able to access VoLTE on my VoLTE roaming compatible device?

    Some devices will default automatically to having the 4G LTE and VoLTE service selected; however, on other devices you may need to ensure that the 4G LTE and VoLTE service are set to on.

    For details on how to check the settings on your device to ensure both 4G LTE and VoLTE service are turned on, check out Enabling VoLTE on your phone.

  • How can I determine if I am on AT&T or T-Mobile's 3G / HSPA network when roaming?

    Near the battery icon on the display on the device there will be a 3G / HSPA network identifier.

  • How can I tell if I have a 3G / HSPA only device or a 4G LTE device that supports VoLTE?

    There are a number of ways to determine what network standards your device supports.

    1. In your device settings look for your mobile network connection details. Depending on your device and the applicable operating system, you should be able to see a list of which type of network connections your device supports.
    2. You can check the specifications for your device on your device manufacturer's website or device documentation to determine what network connections it supports and whether it also supports VoLTE.
    3. To check for network compatibility, head to Get To Know Your Phone or Tablet.
    4. To check if your phone is VoLTE roaming compatible, head to VoLTE Roaming Eligibility.
  • Will I still be able to make / receive voice calls while roaming in the U.S. on AT&T and T-Mobile after they discontinue their 3G / HSPA network?

    Voice calls will no longer be supported on AT&T's and T-Mobile's 3G / HSPA network after the 3G / HSPA service discontinuation dates.

    Voice calls will be supported on AT&T and T-Mobile's 4G LTE network on Virgin Plus devices that support both VoLTE and VoLTE roaming. To continue roaming in the United States, it is recommended that you switch to a VoLTE roaming compatible device with Virgin Plus.

    Check out VoLTE Roaming Eligibility for supported devices.

  • Will I still be able to make emergency calls to 9-1-1 while roaming in the U.S. once AT&T and T-Mobile have discontinued their 3G / HSPA network?

    Emergency calls to 9-1-1 will no longer be supported on AT&T and T-Mobile after the 3G / HSPA service discontinuation dates.

  • What should I do if my device is no longer supported on AT&T and T-Mobile's 3G / HSPA network in the U.S?

    In order to continue using your device for voice services when travelling in the U.S. on AT&T and T-Mobile's 4G LTE network, you will need a Voice over LTE (VoLTE) roaming compatible device.

    Head to VoLTE Roaming Eligibility for more details on VoLTE roaming compatible devices.

    Click here for more details on device availability.

  • Will I still be able to use my device and connect to Wi-Fi when travelling in the U.S. even though my device is no longer supported on AT&T and T-Mobile 3G / HSPA networks?

    The AT&T and T-Mobile 3G / HSPA network service discontinuation should not impact your ability to use your device's Wi-Fi capabilities when connected to a Wi-Fi network.