Alert: Programmable Wireless T-Mobile 2G and 3G Shutdown
T-Mobile USA, Twilio’s connectivity partner for Programmable Wireless in the United States and one the networks available on Super SIM, is phasing out its 2G and 3G networks. All major US network operators are in the process of shutting down legacy 2G and 3G networks now that most new devices support LTE (4G) and 5G networks are being rolled out.
What this means
All Programmable Wireless SIMs activated* or reactivated† after August 4, 2020 will not be able to use T-Mobile’s US 2G or 3G networks. Programmable Wireless SIMs activated before that date can continue to use T-Mobile’s 2G and 3G networks until they are shutdown. Super SIMs, including newly activated ones, can continue to use the T-Mobile 2G and 3G networks until they are shutdown.
We expect the 3G network to begin to be shutdown as early as January 2021. The timeline for the 2G shutdown has not been determined. We will provide an update once the date has been set.
This issue does not affect 2G and 3G devices roaming outside the US using Programmable Wireless SIMs. LTE is not affected.
What you need to do
If your devices in the US are capable of connecting to the LTE network, no action is required.
If your devices in the US do not support LTE and depend on 2G or 3G, they will be impacted. Depending on when they were activated/reactivated those devices will no longer be able to connect to either network now.
If you plan to deploy new devices dependent on 3G in the US, we recommend you switch to Super SIM so that you can control which networks your devices can connect to. You must ensure your Network Access Profile(s) include 3G networks other than T-Mobile. For example, 3G will continue to work on AT&T with Super SIM until early 2022.
We recommend you only deploy devices that support LTE in the US. Globally, you should expect ongoing 2G and 3G network shutdowns over time.
Please contact us if you have any questions or concerns about this change.
* Activation occurs when a Programmable Wireless SIM’s status is changed from new to either active or ready.
† Reactivation occurs when a Programmable Wireless SIM’s status is changed from deactivated to active.
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