Telus and Bell Plan to Shut Down 3G Networks in Manitoba, More Closures Likely Across Canada
Telus and Bell have both announced they will start shutting down their 3G networks in parts of Manitoba. This could mean a full shutdown across Canada is coming soon.
Bell (Also Affects Virgin Plus and Lucky Mobile)
Bell recently posted an update on its website saying it will begin shutting down its 3G (also called HSPA) network later this year. The company says the change is meant to improve its 4G/LTE and 5G networks.
For people in Manitoba, Bell will shut off its 3G service on December 31, 2025. After that date, anyone using older phones that don’t support Voice over LTE (VoLTE) will lose service. Some phones may also lose access to 9-1-1 emergency calls, even if they support LTE.
Bell recommends that customers upgrade to a VoLTE-compatible device. You can check if your phone works with Bell’s newer networks using their VoLTE compatibility tool online.
Bell hasn’t officially said when it will shut down 3G in other provinces, but it is warning all customers to start planning for the switch to 4G/LTE or 5G devices.
Also, Bell will charge $3 per month for some customers who still need to stay on 3G service.
Telus (Also Affects Koodo and Public Mobile)
Telus will shut down its 3G network in two phases:
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Phase 1: Rural areas near Winnipeg and Brandon will lose 3G on December 31, 2025
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Phase 2: The cities of Winnipeg and Brandon will lose 3G on March 31, 2026
Just like Bell, Telus is telling customers to switch to phones that support VoLTE. You can check if your phone is compatible using the Telus VoLTE tool, but you’ll need your phone’s IMEI number to do it.
Telus says that most phones sold in Canada after 2018 should work fine on their newer network.
Other Things to Know
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Rogers and Freedom Mobile have already started shutting down their 3G networks this summer.
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In the United States, most carriers have already turned off 3G service.
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The CRTC (Canada’s telecom regulator) has a fact sheet on its website with more info.
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Some OnePlus phones and other older models may not work well after the 3G shutdown, especially if they weren’t sold by Canadian carriers.
