The Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) of Singapore has unveiled plans to discontinue the registration and sales of 3G-only mobile terminals and Non-VoLTE capable mobile/smartphones.
Key milestones and events in the cessation process outlined by IMDA include:
- July 26th, 2023: Suppliers must inform customers of the cessation of 3G services when selling 3G-only devices. After February 1st, 2024, unregistered 3G-only devices may be sold for overseas use only, under specific conditions.
- November 1st, 2023: IMDA will cease accepting new registrations and renewals of 3G-only mobile terminals and Non-VoLTE capable mobile/smartphones.
- February 1st, 2024: IMDA will deregister approved registrations of 3G-only devices, prohibiting their sale. Only licensed dealers may import these devices strictly for export or overseas use.
- July 31st, 2024: Full cessation of Mobile Network Operators’ (MNOs) 3G networks and services, including Singtel Mobile Singapore Pte Ltd, StarHub Mobile Pte Ltd, and M1 Limited.
Furthermore, IMDA encourages suppliers to ensure that VoLTE is enabled for 4G or 5G mobile/smartphones. With the discontinuation of 3G networks, voice call services, including emergency calls, will rely on VoLTE.
While this decision does not directly impact type approval processes or spectrum allocation, it does affect imports and product availability. All 3G-only mobile terminals and Non-VoLTE capable mobile/smartphones will be impacted by these changes.
Through this initiative, IMDA aims to modernize telecommunications infrastructure and encourage the adoption of advanced technologies, ultimately enhancing connectivity and ensuring efficient use of resources within Singapore’s digital ecosystem.