Today the Telecommunications Forum and mobile operators have launched a series of new factsheets in a range of languages to help support a wider range of Kiwis in preparation for the 3G shutdown.
With the first shutdown less than 3 months away, the updated 3G resource toolkit is aimed at providing accessible information and support resources for our most vulnerable communities, says TCF chief executive Paul Brislen.
“Most Kiwis are aware of the shutdown, but we want to make sure the details around what customers need to do is freely available and accessible.”
This information is now available in New Zealand Sign Language as well as Māori, Samoan, Tongan, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Hindi, Arabic and Spanish. A visual guide for ‘how to check’ your device is also included, along with instructions for changing your mobile phone settings.
“If you need help in person, you can visit your provider’s store or call their support team. Mobile operators have teams of knowledgeable staff ready and waiting to assist with technical updates and affordable device options for customers who may need extra assistance. But the first step is ensuring everyone knows whether they need to take any action,” says Brislen.
Non-phone devices
It’s not just consumers using mobile phones, but also those customers or businesses using other devices reliant on 3G networks who are being reminded to check their devices. These devices include tablets, medical alarms, security alarms and business equipment i.e. vehicle trackers and other connected IoT devices. It also includes any devices still using the 2G network which is also being shutdown by One NZ from the 31st December.
“Vendors have been working through an upgrade programme directly with mobile operators, to ensure key devices such as medical alarms have been upgraded in time to ensure vulnerable consumers remain connected in case of an emergency,” says Brislen.
Recycling old devices
If you are replacing your mobile phone, make sure you recycle your old device through New Zealand’s RE:MOBILE mobile phone recycling programme. You can bring in any phone to over 500 locations, including any Noel Leeming or Resene paint stores, and at all 2degrees, One NZ and Spark retail stores (regardless of which provider you’re with). For more details, visit www.remobile.org.nz.
For more information about the shutdown, FAQs and support resources visit www.3Gshutdown.co.nz or reach out to your provider today for help with the transition.
