STRATA announced that they will be decommissioning its 3G CDMA wireless network on December 31, 2022, to make room for next-generation technologies, including 5G. Like all other major wireless carriers, STRATA is transitioning to a 100% Voice over LTE (VoLTE) network which will require all customers to be using a VoLTE-capable device and supporting SIM card to continue receiving mobile voice service. This public notice is being made to give customers every effort to minimize disruptions in service as movement towards newer and more advanced technologies is made.
STRATA has already taken the first steps to decommission their network by limiting 3G devices from being activated on their network, so the focus now is smooth migration of the remaining 3G devices onto LTE capable products. Approximately 80% of STRATA’s customer base is already using devices that support VoLTE. Others still using 3G devices are strongly encouraged to transition to newer devices well in advance of the shut-off date to maintain working service.
Most other wireless providers have already begun turning down their 3G networks and customers who are still accessing 3G networks will experience a degradation or complete loss of voice service while roaming, and STRATA technicians can only provide limited troubleshooting support for these older devices. For details on which devices are not compatible with LTE or later technologies, customers can visit stratanetworks.com/sunset3G or contact STRATA at (435) 622-5007.
As STRATA and other providers make this change, voice service will also be affected for customers who are not using VoLTE-supporting SIM cards. STRATA will make efforts to communicate with those specific customers prior to December 2022 to make them aware of the need to update their cards. Use of the most current SIM cards will not only ensure uninterrupted service once the 3G network is retired, but it will also make certain that all devices are equipped to take full advantage of STRATA’s LTE coverage in the Basin, which now encompasses nearly 75% of Uintah and Duchesne counties. Those who are unsure what SIM card is in their device can find out online at stratanetworks.com/checkmysim.
“Wireless technology is evolving quickly, and with that evolution comes necessary changes to legacy technology,” said Bruce Todd, CEO/General Manager of STRATA Networks. “Phasing out some of these older technologies will make room for more capacity to deliver LTE and eventually a 5G network here in the Basin.”
For details about the decommissioning efforts, devices that will no longer work, and what customers can do to move to newer technology, customers are encouraged to visit stratanetworks.com/sunset3G or reach out to STRATA.
For more information, contact Tyler Rasmussen at 622-5007, or email trasmussen@stratanetworks.com.
