The announced shutdown of Telstra’s 2G (GSM) network at the end of 2016 has many of our customers asking about the future of the 2G Telematics devices installed in their vehicles and equipment.
At present the Australian Cellular Carriers support a range of GSM technologies including 2G, 3G and more recently 4G (LTE) networks. The announcement that Telstra will shut down its 2G network on the 1st of December 2016, and Optus on the 1st of April 2017 has got the market talking about the future of 2G in Australia.
So what is the future of 2G?
2G GSM provides support for thousands of ATM’s, Telematics, Parking Meters and other infrastructure telemetry applications. Whist owners of these assets will be looking to migrate to 3 or 4G in the future they expect 2G coverage over the next 3-5 years to support their migration plan.
Vodafone have stated that they will continue to operate the 2G network. Vodafone have recently invested in upgrading their cell towers nationally. These cell towers deliver all three bands of cellular technology. At the time of writing Vodafone do not have any plans to shut down 2G GSM and if they did they would provide 24 months’ notice to their customers.
Telstra will shut down their 2G network in the 1st December 2016.
Optus will shut down on the 1st April 2017
What if I have a Telematics IVU with a Telstra or Optus 2G SIM?
We are more than happy to work with you on planning the replacement/upgrade of your existing telematics hardware. The IVU in your vehicle will become redundant once Telstra and Optus shut down the 2G network, contact our support team on 1300 728 882 to find out how and if this affects you.
Do I have an upgrade option?
Pinpoint have a range of GPS Tracking and Telematics devices that support 3G networks. If you are interested in upgrading your Telematics hardware, Pinpoint are offering a wide range of 3G products, from our low cost TRK130, advanced TRK604, high end TRK2004, and our TRK130TT vehicle/trailer tracker.
Call one of our helpful team to learn more about our GPS and Telematics systems
