3G network shutdowns affect more than cellphones

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Cellphones that operate only on 3G networks have not been manufactured in more than a decade.
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Alarm systems, other devices may use the old technology

Old cellphone networks are being shut down and more than old phones will be affected.

On Tuesday, AT&T switched off its old mobile technology known as 3G. Other carriers including T-Mobile and Verizon plan to follow suit later this year.

While there may not be a lot of old 3G-only phones still in use, experts warn that home alarm systems, e-book readers and other devices that use cellular modems may need to be upgraded or replaced.

WAMC’s Pioneer Valley Bureau Chief Paul Tuthill spoke with Tom Kamber, Executive Director of Older Adults Technology Services.

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The record-setting tenure of Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno. The 2011 tornado and its recovery that remade the largest city in Western Massachusetts. The fallout from the deadly COVID outbreak at the Holyoke Soldiers Home. Those are just a few of the thousands and thousands of stories WAMC’s Pioneer Valley Bureau Chief Paul Tuthill has covered for WAMC in his nearly 17 years with the station.