At STRATA Networks, we’re always working behind the scenes to provide you with the best possible wireless experience, which is why, starting on December 31, 2022, we’re retiring our 3G service for all STRATA customers to make room for more improvements to our network. Transitioning to a 100% VoLTE network will mean a faster, stronger, more reliable experience for customers who currently use services on our 3G network.
However, to use our network once 3G services are retired, you will need a Voice Over LTE (VoLTE) capable device and VoLTE capable SIM card compatible with STRATA’s Voice network. Depending on what kind of phone you have, you may need to upgrade to continue using our network after December 2022.
If this sounds confusing, don’t worry! We are here to make this process as easy as possible. First, see if your current phone is compatible with our VoLTE network by checking the list of compatible devices below. If you need to upgrade, you can view our many VoLTE capable devices here. We have limited activation on phones that don’t support VoLTE since they won’t be compatible to work on our network when 3G shuts down.
We encourage you to make the transition soon as many other major wireless carriers are shutting down their 3G networks, which will affect your roaming service. To learn more about the change and why it is taking place, please continue reading.
VoLTE Capable Devices
Apple
- iPhone SE
- iPhone 6s
- iPhone 6s Plus
- iPhone 7
- iPhone 7 Plus
- iPhone 8
- iPhone 8 Plus
- iPhone X
- iPhone Xs
- iPhone Xs Max
- iPhone XR
- iPhone 11
- iPhone 11 Pro
- iPhone 11 Pro Max
- iPhone SE Gen 2
- iPhone 12 mini
- iPhone 12
- iPhone 12 Pro
- iPhone 12 Max
Samsung
- Samsung A02
- Samsung A10e
- Samsung A11
- Samsung A12
- Samsung A20
- Samsung A21
- Samsung A32
- Samsung S21 FE
- Samsung A42
- Samsung A50
- Samsung A51
- Samsung A52
- Galaxy S9
- Galaxy S9+
- Galaxy Note 9
- Galaxy S10e
- Galaxy S10
- Galaxy S10+
- Galaxy Note 10
- Galaxy Note 10+
- Galaxy S20
- Galaxy S20+
- Galaxy S20 Ultra
- Galaxy S20 FE
- Galaxy Note 20
- Galaxy Note 20 Ultra
- Galaxy S21
- Galaxy S21+
- Galaxy S21 Ultra
Sonim
FAQs
What is Voice over LTE?
Voice over LTE happens when you place a phone call over your LTE connection instead of the older legacy voice networks. For example, most wireless carriers traditionally use a different signal for all your voice calls, only relying on LTE for data. This is why phones can't simultaneously use voice and data.
Who will be impacted by this change?
Anyone using a 3G device or has a non-VoLTE compatible SIM card will be impacted. If you are unsure if this includes you, you can check your device on the list above or your SIM card at stratanetworks.com/checkmysim
Is STRATA the only one shutting down their 3G Network?
All of the nation’s major wireless network operators are saying goodbye to 3G. Since launching in 2002, 3G has played an important role, but will now be replaced by more capable technologies such as 5G. In fact, major carriers have already started this process which is why we encourage anyone who needs to upgrade to do so as soon as possible because you may experience degradation of service while roaming outside of our area.
Why is STRATA shutting down their 3G network?
We want to make sure you have the best possible experience with us. Over the past few years, mobile internet traffic on our wireless network has increased exponentially—and a more advanced network will be better equipped to handle it. Retiring 3G service will help make room for more improvements to our network, such as LTE and eventually 5G, and help customers have a better experience.
Why do some customers need to upgrade their phones?
Our upcoming VoLTE network will perform at a higher standard, offering better speed and higher-quality audio. However, it will only work with devices that are made for it. So if you have a phone designed for our 3G network and it isn’t compatible with our new VoLTE network, you will have to upgrade to enjoy it.
Here’s the good news: You may be eligible for special offers when you upgrade your phone. You can visit a STRATA retail location, contact customer support online, or by phone to learn more about available offers. And if you’re used to our 3G network, switching to a compatible VoLTE capable device will be a significant improvement in terms of speed and call quality.
What is a VoLTE capable device? How is it different?
A VoLTE device is able to use VoLTE wideband audio technology and noise cancelation, which sends a broader range of sound waves over the network.
In terms of performance, we like to say the difference is loud and clear: VoLTE makes phone calls crisp, clear, and easier to hear. Voices sound more natural, and you’ll hear much less background noise compared with standard voice calls. Also, you’ll be able to stream data at 4G LTE speeds during your call.
My current device isn’t VoLTE-capable. How do I get the best possible price on a new phone?
You may be eligible for special offers when you upgrade your phone. To find out, visit a STRATA store or contact customer support to learn what’s available. Be sure to come into a STRATA location before December 2022 to avoid disruption to your service.
What happens if I don’t upgrade my device or SIM card?
If your current phone or SIM card is not VoLTE-capable and compatible with STRATA’s network, you will lose service once the 3G network is retired, beginning in December 2022. Because other carriers are starting this process too, you may start to experience degradation of service while roaming outside of our service area.
Why do I need a new SIM card? How do I know if I need one?
Customers who are not using VoLTE-supporting SIM cards will need to update their SIM cards and will be made aware prior to December 2022. Using our most current SIM cards will ensure uninterrupted service once the 3G network is retired, but it will also make sure that all devices can take full advantage of STRATA’s LTE coverage in the Basin. Check if you need to upgrade your SIM card here: stratanetworks.com/checkmysim
How will shutting down 3G affect my voice and data service?
Talk and data services won’t work on a non-VoLTE device or SIM card after we shut down the 3G network. All voice and data devices will need to be VoLTE capable to continue working on STRATA’s network and other roaming networks. Not sure what kind of device you have, or if you’ll need to upgrade? Call our customer service team at 435-622-5007 or check your SIM card at stratanetworks.com/checkmysim
I have a compatible device, how do I make a call over LTE?
Once STRATA transitions to VoLTE, customers using compatible SIM cards and devices will need to make sure that they have a setting turned on in their phone that allows them to make phone calls over an LTE connection. For some, this setting may be turned on by default, but that might not always be the case.
To toggle this option:
Apple users will need to go to: Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Options > Voice & Data > VoLTE.
Android users will need to go to: Settings > Connections > Mobile Networks > VoLTE.
STRATA NETWORKS is the leading telecommunications provider in the Uintah Basin, providing advanced voice, broadband, television, and nationwide wireless services. The company is headquartered in Roosevelt, Utah, with a coverage area extending into a tri-state region, serving over 60,000 customers. STRATA celebrates over 60 years of technology expertise, exceptional customer relations, and a devout corporate social responsibility to its community. The company functions as a local cooperative, in which customers can also become member-owners of the company who may receive patronage dividends and participate in company voting processes. More information is available at www.stratanetworks.com.