Freedom Mobile users in Quebec and the Ottawa area should prepare for the first 3G network shutdown phase starting July 31, 2025, according to Freedom’s parent company, Videotron.
The move is part of a broader plan to phase out older 3G technology in Canada to make way for faster LTE, 5G, and 5G+ networks. Videotron says shutting down 3G will free up resources to improve speed and performance, and that this shift follows what many other countries—including the U.S., Australia, and parts of Europe—have already done. Halifax-based Eastlink shut down their 3G network in 2020.
“The 3G network was the one that really drove mobility at Videotron in its early days, in 2005,” the company writes. “Since then, the company has continually invested in improving its network… This enables Videotron to meet consumers’ growing needs in terms of speed and performance.”
If you’re still using a 3G-only phone, you’ll lose calling, texting, and data services entirely in affected regions. Even some 4G LTE phones won’t work for calls unless they support VoLTE (Voice over LTE) and VoLTE Roaming.
Videotron warns: “When 3G is shut down, you will no longer be able to call 911 if you use a mobile phone or a SIM card that is not VoLTE compatible. This is already the case when you are travelling in the United States.”
How to check your phone
Freedom Mobile recommends dialing #TEST (#8378). If the call goes through, your phone is VoLTE-ready. If it doesn’t, you’ll need a newer phone and SIM card to stay connected.
To avoid losing service:
With Rogers shutting its 3G network on July 31 too, it’s likely that Freedom Mobile and Videotron’s 3G shutdown is related, since its wireless customers also roam on Rogers. “Starting July 31, 2025, one of our Canadian partners will begin shutting down their 3G network, beginning with the province of Quebec, as well as Ottawa, and it’s surrounding areas,” says Freedom Mobile.
Recently, Rogers and Fido have already started cutting off working phones that were using its 3G networks, in what was deemed accidental. Rogers is also charging a $75 network fee if users continue to use 3G networks.
We previously told you Telus will begin its first 3G network shutdown starting at the end of this year.
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