AT&T tricked some of its customers by sending emails to warn them that they will need to get a new phone because their older phone will no longer work on the AT&T voice and data network. However, the message is misleading because these phones will continue to work for another 18 months or until 2022. Some of these phones have the technological capabilities to connect to the network even after 2022. AT&T has apologized, but now T-Mobile has some A similar message to convey to your customers.
T-Mobile internal documents that were obtained by AndroidPolice reveal that as of August 4, T-Mobile will require that all new devices running on its network support VoLTE (Voice over LTE). While subscribers to the wireless provider will still be able to use their non-VoLTE-compatible phone for the remainder of this year, starting in January 2021 those phones will not work on the T-Mobile network.
The document, written for T-Mobile representatives, says customers with an unsupported device will receive text messages suggesting they purchase a new phone with VoLTE capabilities. The document also says that T-Mobile representatives should direct customers with a non-VoLTE phone to a new device from the operator’s current line. The operator says, “The change benefits customers by ensuring that they are using a device that will provide them with the best network experience on our nationwide 4G LTE and 5G networks.”
T-Mobile internal note on VoLTE leaks
The change not only affects T-Mobile subscribers, but will also affect all MVNOs using the T-Mobile network, such as Metro by T-Mobile, Ting, Consumer Cellular, and Mint Mobile. In addition to affecting older phones, some imported Huawei and Xiaomi models do not offer VoLTE. The good news is that most unlocked phones support T-Mobile’s VoLTE, even older models like 2013 LG G2.
There is some bad news and good news to report here. The good news is that all phones in the current T-Mobile line are compatible with VoLTE. The bad news is that with unemployment shaking the United States thanks to the pandemic, those who have to decide between feeding their family or buying a new phone from T-Mobile are going to select the first one (almost) every time.
