In context: 5G is on the style and 4G has been the standard for years, just there's however plenty of people out in that location with older 3G cell phones. While the slower network has been on the chopping block for years, information technology'due south survived by the skin of its teeth thanks to repeated stay-of-executions from prison cell service providers.

Verizon's 3G network was set to shut down by the end of 2022. Nonetheless, that borderline has passed and the network is however live: Verizon is giving 3G users one more (perhaps final) chance to switch over to newer technology. According to a argument provided to Calorie-free Reading, Verizon's 3G network remains "operational," and it does not have whatsoever plans to close information technology downwardly "at this time."

The company goes on to state that it will work with customers to move them to newer technology, whatever that might mean.

Remember the 3G iPhone?

To exist clear, this does non mean Verizon volition proceed operating 3G for several more years. For all nosotros know, the network might only survive for a few more than months (that'due south merely a judge, though).

Verizon executives still maintain that they desire to close the network off "as soon equally possible," Light Reading reports -- all today's news means is that we don't take an updated borderline for when that day will come.

Perhaps Verizon is hoping a niggling dubiety might exist simply the push whatever remaining 3G holdouts need to snag a newer device, though, of course, it'south not that easy for everyone. There are however portions of the The states that aren't adequately covered by 4G, much less 5G, leaving consumers with no choice but to continue relying on older tech.