Telstra 3G cut-off date extended with audio messages to play on outbound calls to remind users to switch

Telstra has announced it will push back the closure date for its 3G network by two months from June 30 to August 31. The service provider will also introduce a warning on phone calls for customers yet to move off the network. The short message will play on mobile phones when making an outbound call reminding them of the cut-off. Telstra is set to be the second major service to shut down its network after Vodafone closed its service over the summer. Optus’ 3G network is expected to be shut off in September. Telstra chief executive officer Vicki Brady said it was an important move. “Connectivity is becoming more and more important to the way we all live and work and we are excited to help all Australians transition to 4G and 5G mobile networks which are faster, more reliable and more resilient,” she said. “But we have to make sure everyone is ready to make this transition together and we know some of our customers are still working through the steps they need to take to upgrade their devices. “That’s why we’ve decided to provide more time and further support.” Mobile customers who are directly using the Telstra network or a provider that uses the Telstra network can check if their handset will be impacted by texting the number “3” to 3498.