What THIS Means for Businesses and Connectivity
In January, Telstra and Optus switched off their 3G networks to reallocate spectrum for 4G and 5G services with the goal of faster speeds, better call quality, and enhanced mobile coverage.
In theory, any area previously covered by 3G should now have an equivalent 4G or 5G service. On the ground, however, the recent changes have engendered numerous regional connectivity disruptions, affecting businesses and communities across the country.
Businesses and Regional Users Are Struggling
Since the 3G shutdown, reports of unreliable mobile reception have surged. While telcos insist coverage remains the same, customers in rural and remote areas are experiencing the opposite.
Farmers, small businesses, and enterprise teams working outside major cities are struggling with mobile blackspots, phones stuck in SOS mode, and dropped calls. Without reliable connectivity, businesses that depend on mobile communication for operations, logistics, and customer service are now facing serious disruptions.
How This Impacts Business Operations
For businesses in affected areas, the loss of 3G service isn’t just inconvenient — it’s costly. Some of the biggest challenges include:
- Communication breakdowns: The recent 3G shutdowns have led to calls dropping mid-conversation, staff struggling to reach clients, and remote teams unable to coordinate efficiently.
- Security concerns: Businesses relying on mobile-connected security systems may experience lapses in monitoring and response times.
- Reduced productivity: Employees relying on mobile data for work are now dealing with unreliable internet access.
- Customer frustration: Missed calls and patchy service can impact customer satisfaction and business reputation.
What Businesses Can Do To Regain Reliable Connectivity
If your business is dealing with mobile network issues after the 3G shutdown, there are ways to adapt and ensure consistent connectivity:
- Assess your current telecom setup: Identify devices that still rely on 3G and upgrade to 4G- or 5G-compatible alternatives.
- Explore carrier alternatives: If your current provider isn’t delivering reliable service, consider switching to a carrier with better coverage and connectivity technologies in your area.
- Implement a failover solution: Businesses can use dual-SIM or multi-network services to ensure coverage, even when one provider has outages.
- Use Mobile Device Management (MDM) tools: MDM solutions help businesses track connectivity issues and enforce policies to ensure employees always have access to working devices and networks.
How VoicePlus Can Help Businesses Stay Connected
The 3G shutdown highlights the importance of independent, business-focused telecom solutions. VoicePlus helps enterprises manage mobile networks, avoid unnecessary downtime, and stay ahead of connectivity challenges with:
- Atrium Platform: A centralised dashboard that allows businesses to monitor mobile service performance, track devices, and optimise costs.
- Expert Support: VoicePlus provides human-based support to help businesses navigate carrier changes, identify alternative solutions, and keep operations running smoothly.
- Lifecycle Management: From procurement to retirement, VoicePlus ensures all business devices remain functional, secure, and compatible with the latest networks.
Don’t Let Mobile Connectivity Issues Disrupt Your Business
If your business has been affected by the 3G shutdown, now is the time to reassess your telecom strategy. VoicePlus offers independent solutions to keep your workforce connected, even in challenging areas.
Get in touch today to explore your options.