How to Prepare for AT&T’s Shutdown of 2G Network

Posted by Peter Hilliard on April 21st, 2016

How to Prepare for AT&T’s Shutdown of 2G Network

AT&T is currently in the process of shutting down its GSM-based 2G network in order to boost capacity for its 3G and LTE networks. It plans to have its 2G network closed by January 2017 – paving the way for more advanced wireless infrastructures and added capacity.

If you’re currently using AT&T’s 2G network to power your handheld POS terminals, what will these changes mean for your business?

What Does the Shutdown Mean for Tour Operators?

Due to the shutdown – which is being completed in stages – Vx670 and some Vx680 terminals with AT&T SIMs might experience periods of connectivity loss.

To confirm the status of your Vx680 devices, look on the back for their:

  • Model numbers.
  • A label identifying them as G/2G or 3G devices. Please note that is the terminal is labelled “G,” it is a 2G unit.

AT&T’s Machine-to-Machine (M2M) customers will be particularly affected by the closure of its 2G network, as they generally use the same equipment for 10 years or more.

Preparing for AT&T’s 2G Network Shutdown

If you are currently running on AT&T’s 2G networks, consider these short- and long-term solutions:

  • Short-Term Solution: We suggest that all terminals currently running on AT&T 2G SIMs (Nurits, Vx670, and some Vx680) be switched to T-Mobile SIMs.
  • Long-Term Solutions: Customers should begin looking into other 3G hardware options, including Verifone Vx680, Pidion 1300, Pidion 1500, and Pidion 1530.

Taking steps to upgrade your technology early will ensure a seamless transition for your business.

Why Is AT&T Shutting Down its 2G Network?

AT&T is making these sweeping infrastructural changes to its networks to keep up with consumer demand. Mobile data has taken a massive leap in the US, growing 75,000% between 2001 and 2006. Between 2007 and 2014, mobile data traffic on AT&T’s national wireless network ballooned – increasing 100,000%.

AT&T isn’t the first carrier to shutter one of their wireless networks in light of changing demand. In 2013, Sprint shut down its 800 MHz iDEN network. AT&T is, however, is one of the first to close its 2G network. Other wireless networks – including T-Mobile – have confirmed that they will continue supporting 2G through at least 2020.

Our handheld mobile booking terminals make it easy to manage ticketing from the palm of your hand and feature built-in printers, keypads, touch screen technology, and more. Contact us today to learn more about DataTrax’s hardware options! 

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Peter Hilliard

About Peter Hilliard

Peter Hilliard is the Founder, President, and CEO of DataTrax. He began his career as a tour bus operator with a single bus, until he realized that a better solution was needed for automating and tracking ticket sales. Led by Peter’s expertise in the tour industry and ticketing automation technologies, DataTrax has grown over the past 20+ years into an international leader in ticketing solutions.