March 1st, 2027 3G/HSPA network shutdown

[Lake]

What happens on March 1, 2027 when network shuts down?

[VirginPlusAntonie · Accepted solution]

Hey there @Lake , 

Welcome to the community and great question. 

In an ongoing effort to enhance the customer experience, Virgin Plus is discontinuing our 3G/HSPA network.

To learn more about this change, check out 3G/HSPA network discontinuation on VirginPlus.ca. 

Within the link you will find various help tools like: Device Connectivity Checklists, Quick links, Frequently asked questions, etc. 

Let the community know if you have more questions. 

[Giggitti]

I was very disappointed to see the latest mail out regarding the phase out of the 3G network went straight to telling me I needed to replace my iPhone 14 before March 1, 2027.  No mention was made that it might just be that the SIM card itself was old and needed to be replaced, which is in fact the case.  Its a shameful marketing ploy to get people to upgrade without informing them of the facts.  The proper way to handle this would have been to mention they have no way of determining if it's the device or the SIM so check the SIM card for compatibility first.    

[VirginPlusKris]

Hi there, @Giggitti. Thanks for reaching out.

We do apologize for any misunderstanding in the communications received; the language used is meant to be generic enough to cover any bases in which our back-end could perceive someone as being at risk of being impacted by the upcoming 3G/HSPA shutdown. Whether this was because of an outdated SIM, an old phone, or any other older device that doesn't have compatibility beyond 3G/HSPA.

As the wide majority of these cases are outdated phones, an upgrade offer is included as courtesy, but is not mandatory.

Let us know if you have any further questions. Best wishes.

— Kris