IVEL, Ky. — After many months of preparation, Appalachian Wireless, an East Kentucky Network company, expects to complete the shutdown of its 3G/CDMA network this month.
Data service was fully transitioned to 4G/LTE in December.
Throughout 2022, Appalachian Wireless has been preparing customers for this transition and encouraging customers to ensure they have a device that is set up for Voice over LTE (VoLTE) service. The few remaining customers who have not upgraded to a VoLTE capable device will be unable to make or receive voice calls (including calls to 911), send or receive text messages, or use data services until replacing devices. Appalachian Wireless again encourages these customers not to delay replacing devices. Appalachian Wireless has good inventory of affordable devices, including flip phones.
Most customers have VoLTE capable devices and should see minimal change in their service when 3G/CDMA service is retired. In fact, some newer devices do not function with 3G networks, therefore customers with these newer devices have already been relying exclusively on the 4G/LTE network for service. Devices that support both technologies will no longer be alternating between 1X data and LTE, so they can be expected to function better in low signal areas without the need to switch airplane mode on and off.
The 4G/LTE footprint, or coverage area, is somewhat smaller than the 3G/CDMA footprint. Therefore, customers may find they have to adjust to the new experience and become familiar with lower signal areas. Where WiFi is accessible, WiFi calling can help fill in gaps. WiFi calling is available to customers with a SIM card linked to the EKN/Band 12 network. WiFi calling for customers who utilize the Band 13/LRA network is in final stages of development and is expected to be available by Spring 2023.
The top three nationwide wireless providers have already completed their 3G shutdown. Providers must shut down the outdated 3G networks in order to have capacity to expand 4G/LTE and 5G service.
In September 2022, Appalachian Wireless announced that work is underway to deploy 5G service for its subscribers. Retiring the 3G/CDMA service is a necessary step in advancing to 5G.
Full details concerning the 3G/CDMA shutdown may be found at www.appalachianwireless.com.
