With AT&T’s plans to shutter its 2G network set for year-end, T-Mobile is offering free SIM cards and service in attempt to lure connections
T-Mobile US is looking to exploit AT&T Mobility’s upcoming plans to shutter its 2G network in an attempt to bolster its own “internet of things” initiatives.
The move has T-Mobile US offering current AT&T Mobility IoT customers a free SIM card and free 2G service through the end of the year to make the switch. Details include up to 50 megabytes of 2G connectivity per device each month through 2016, with the SIM cards available as needed.
The carrier notes its “new spectrum-efficient 2G GSM optimization” will allow it to continue supporting Global System for Mobile Communications-based 2G services through 2020, though it also will offer customers its newly approved Category 1 LTE modules should they seek longer network support.
AT&T Mobility is on track to shut down its 2G network by the end of this year, something it has been planning for several years. The carrier is looking to repurpose the 850 MHz and 1900 MHz spectrum supporting those GSM/GPRS/EDGE services for its High Speed Packet Access-based 3G and LTE-based 4G operations.
“We are shutting down our 2G network by the end of 2016,” the carrier notes on its transition page. “AT&T wireless customers using this network will need to upgrade their devices as they will be unable to make or receive calls, including emergency calls, send or receive text messages, or use data services after Dec. 31, 2016.”
AT&T does note customers impacted by the move could be eligible for “special offers” related to new devices or rate plans. The carrier has been testing IoT devices on its LTE network.
“If you are currently using a device that only works on our 2G network, we’ll help you upgrade it,” the carrier adds. “You’ll receive text messages and other communications with details on how to complete your upgrade before the end of the year.”
Verizon Wireless also is said to be on track to shutter its CDMA-based 2G network by the end of 2019, which might be dependent on the migration of voice traffic to its LTE-based voice-over-LTE service. AT&T Mobility and T-Mobile US both offer VoLTE services, but also can support voice traffic on their HSPA-based 3G networks.
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