3G/HSPA network discontinuation
As a result of this change, customers with devices that rely solely on 3G/HSPA technology will need to upgrade their device. Below, you’ll find information to help you determine if your phone is affected.
Network service discontinuation dates
3G/HSPA network changes across Canada
As part of this change, our 3G/HSPA network will no longer be available as of the following dates:
- Manitoba: December 31, 2025.
- Nationally: March 1, 2027.
Discontinuation of the 3G/HSPA network will affect mobile and IoT devices that rely on 3G/HSPA technology for any services, resulting in the loss of data, text and/or voice connectivity (including access to 9-1-1 emergency services). This includes 4G LTE devices that do not support voice over LTE (VoLTE).
To ensure proper service continuity, you need to upgrade to a device that supports 4G LTE or 5G/5G+ and, at minimum, has 4G LTE VoLTE capabilities for phone calls.
3G/HSPA network discontinued in the U.S.: AT&T and T-Mobile shut down their 3G/HSPA networks in 2022. Bell customers visiting the U.S. need a phone that supports VoLTE roaming.
To connect to the 4G LTE/5G/5G+ network and avoid service disruptions, you require the following:
- 4G LTE for data
- VoLTE for calls
- VoLTE roaming for calls in the U.S.
If necessary, you can purchase a new device online or at a Bell store. See a list of VoLTE-compatible and VoLTE roaming-compatible devices. Business customers should contact their Bell Business Client Executive.
What is 3G/HSPA?
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 by the newest generation of wireless standards, 5G/5G+.
VoLTE (Voice over LTE) allows you to make voice calls over the LTE network, which is essential since 3G/HSPA networks are being phased out across Canada by all carriers.
Make sure VoLTE is enabled on your phone
Select your device type to learn how to enable VoLTE.
How to check if VoLTE is enabled on iPhone
Seeing 4G/LTE or 5G on your screen doesn’t mean VoLTE is active. You must check your settings to confirm.
iPhone 6 and newer
- Scroll to and select Settings.
- Select Cellular (or Mobile Data).
- Select Cellular Data Options.
- Select Voice & Data.
- Make sure LTE is selected and VoLTE is turned ON.
If you see options like “5G Auto,” “5G On,” or “LTE,” choose LTE and ensure VoLTE is enabled.
iPhone 5s or older
- These models do not support VoLTE and will not work for voice calls once the 3G network is phased out.
- You’ll need to upgrade to a newer device that supports VoLTE and is certified for use on Bell’s network. Upgrade your phone.
How to check if VoLTE is enabled on your Android Smartphone
Seeing 4G/LTE or 5G on your screen doesn’t mean VoLTE is active. You must check your settings to confirm.
Devices running on Android 10 and above
- Scroll to and select Settings.
- Select Connections or Network & Internet.
- Select Mobile networks.
- Select your SIM card (if applicable).
- Look for VoLTE calls or Enable VoLTE.
- Make sure the toggle is turned ON
Devices running on Android 6 to 9
- Scroll to and select Settings.
- Select More > Mobile networks or SIM settings.
- Look for VoLTE or Use LTE for calls.
- Turn it ON if available.
If you don’t see the VoLTE option, your device may not support it or may not be certified for Bell’s VoLTE network.
Note: Even if your phone supports VoLTE, it must be certified by Bell to guarantee it will work properly on our network. Devices not on Bell’s VoLTE-compatible list may still be able to make VoLTE calls, but we cannot guarantee full performance or support.
Does your phone or SIM card need an upgrade?
Use this checklist to see if you need to upgrade your mobile phone or SIM card
What happens when the network is discontinued
Stay connected with Voice over LTE (VoLTE)
VoLTE capable phones enable you to make and receive calls over the 4G LTE network. VoLTE enables faster call connection times and improved voice quality service.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Legacy Network Fee?
A $3/month Legacy Network Fee will be added to your bill if you use a 3G device or 4G device without VoLTE capabilities. This covers the high cost of maintaining older networks until they’re retired.
To avoid this fee, upgrade to a 4G LTE, 5G, or 5G+ device capable of VoLTE. Once you upgrade, the fee will be removed. Upgrade your phone online or visit a Bell store.
Is my phone from outside Canada affected?
Phones bought outside Canada may not work properly on Bell’s network. This can limit voice, text, or data capabilities, especially if your device uses older technology like 3G/HSPA instead of 4G LTE or 5G.
To ensure proper performance, your device must support:
- Bell’s LTE frequency bands Learn more
- VoLTE for voice calls Learn more
Why is VoLTE available on some devices with certain Canadian carriers, but not others?
Not all phones work the same way with every network. Each carrier tests and certifies devices for its own VoLTE network. Even if your device supports VoLTE, if Bell hasn’t certified it, VoLTE won’t work on our network – even if it does on another carrier.
This could be due to:
- Different settings: VoLTE configurations vary by carrier, so compatibility isn’t guaranteed without approval.
- Launch timing: Phones released before a carrier launched VoLTE may not be included in certification.
- Limited certification window: Certification usually happens near a phone’s release; updates later are rare.
Bell Community forum
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Bell Community forum
Find even more support by searching topics or posting questions in our forum.
Visit our community forum
Join the conversation by scanning the QR code.