TORONTO — Some customers of Rogers Communications Inc. will soon encounter a new monthly fee due to the impending retirement of the company's older network technologies. As part of its aim to enhance its LTE and 5G networks, Rogers plans to phase out its 3G network, with a shutdown date set for July 31, 2025.
According to information provided on Rogers' official website, customers using devices that depend on the 3G and older 2G networks may begin to experience interruptions in basic services such as calling, texting, and data usage leading up to the complete cessation of these functionalities. This transition reflects Rogers’ ongoing efforts to streamline its network operations and focus resources on more advanced technologies.
Beginning in May 2025, Rogers will implement a new "legacy network usage" fee of $3 per month for those customers who continue relying on the outdated 3G and 2G networks. The purpose of this charge, as stated by the company, is to recoup some of the costs associated with maintaining these legacy systems, which are becoming less sustainable as technology advances.
To avoid this upcoming charge, Rogers encourages its customers to upgrade to devices capable of operating on the more modern 4G or 5G networks. The company assures customers that they will receive a notification via text message when the fee takes effect, which will appear on their bills approximately 60 days after it is introduced.
This operational change reflects a broader trend across the telecommunications industry, where companies are increasingly moving towards newer technologies while phasing out older, less efficient systems. As consumers transition to more advanced mobile technologies, issues related to service disruptions for those relying on legacy networks will become more common.
The shutting down of the 3G network represents a significant shift in Rogers’ service offerings as it aims to position itself competitively in an era dominated by high-speed networks, catering to an increasing demand for better connectivity and faster data services.
The implementation of the new fee structure has begun to raise questions among customers regarding its necessity and the impact it may have on those still using older devices. As Rogers moves forward with this initiative, it highlights the critical importance of upgrading technology in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
