Notice of 3G Upgrade
The process of upgrading the An Post Mobile network to a more suitable and energy efficient 4G service has begun. The upgrade includes the closure of the existing 3G network (a wireless technology that is over 20 years old) and a phased programme to move the An Post Mobile service to our 4G Service.
Limerick City was successfully upgraded in February 2023. The next Phase of the upgrade programme will continue with the closure of the 3G network in Cork City and Galway City. The majority of An Post Mobile customers are already using the 4G service, so they will not be impacted by the move from 3G. The 2G network, which provides voice coverage, is not part of the upgrade and will remain in full usage.
When will this happen?
From the 12th September, the 3G network in Cork City and Galway City is being upgraded to 4G, and the 3G Network in these areas will no longer be available. If you are in these areas and your current phone is using our 3G network for calls and texts, it will switch over to 2G and you will still be able to make and receive calls and texts. However, your data experience will be impacted. Below you will find further information on how this change may impact you. As always our customer support services will be there to provide help and advice on this change.
An Post Mobile will make the best efforts to provide advance notice to customers of the closures as the schedule evolves. This nationwide network modernisation programme is set to be completed over an 18-month period.
Why is this necessary?
The transition for 3G to 4G is necessary in order to futureproof our services, make it more sustainable and energy efficient, and to increase levels of network performance and resilience. Similar programmes are in progress across the world (UK, Italy, Netherlands, USA and many other countries).
What does it mean for An Post Mobile customers?
While we expect that the move from 3G to 4G will not affect the majority of our customers, if you have an older ‘legacy’ device, including handsets, tablets and IOT/M2M (Machine to Machine communication devices), you may find these devices are not compatible with our network once the 3G network service moves to 4G. Below you will find a list of the devices that could be affected. Some customers will also need a 'Settings' update.
Customers with older ‘legacy’ devices may wish to consider upgrading to a 4G device to enjoy enhanced coverage and improved connectivity, rather than falling back to the slower 2G network.
How do I know if my handset only has access to the 2G/3G Network?
On Android (some phones may vary)
- Go to Settings > Network > Mobile Network.
- Look for a dropdown menu of mobile standards such as 2G, 3G or LTE (4G).
- If you don't see 4G or LTE, then your smartphone doesn't support the standard.
On iPhones
- First, go to settings on your iPhone.
- Scroll and go to the General Section. Tap the Cellular option.
- Here you will see 'Enable 4G LTE' if your phone supports the network.
What support can customers expect?
Our dedicated customer care team will be on hand to provide support and assistance to ensure a smooth transition from 3G to 4G for all An Post Mobile customers.
How do I contact An Post Mobile?
You can contact Customer Care by email: Care@anpostmobile.ie or by calling 0818 789 789.
What support will older and more vulnerable customers get?
Some customers may need additional support with the move from 3G to 4G. Our dedicated customer care team will provide extra support to ensure older and more vulnerable customers get the assistance they need.
Customers can also contact Hi Digital, a free programme offered by charities ALONE and Active Retirement Ireland. It offers training on how to use smartphones and the internet. Support is available online or in person: Go to www.hidigital.ie or call 1800 203030 .
What will happen if I don’t upgrade to 4G or 5G?
If you have a 3G only phone, and haven’t made the switch to 4G, when the upgrade is activated your phone will switch over to the 2G network. An Post Mobile will do everything possible to ensure you benefit from the best possible service connection. Our expert customer service team will be ready to answer any questions you may have and will ensure you find the right solution. As mentioned earlier, customers with older ‘legacy’ devices may wish to consider an upgrade to a 4G device and enjoy enhanced coverage and improved connectivity, rather than falling back to the slower 2G network.
What devices other than handsets may be impacted?
Some older legacy devices may be 3G only and will need to be updated/replaced, or may need a new SIM. Customers may need to contact the manufacture to check this. The list below is not exhaustive, and is provided for guidance only:
- Medical alert devices (fall detectors, communicators, etc.)
- Fire alarms
- Inventory trackers
- Smartwatches
- E-readers (Kindles, Nooks, etc.)
- GPS trackers (including for pets)
- Safety devices
- Water features/fountains
- Traffic lights
- Handheld devices
- Heating systems
- Payment devices