At Zeronet, we’re all about keeping you connected with the latest mobile technology. Each generation of mobile has unlocked new ways to call, text, browse, and stream. Here’s what it all means for you.
The Generations of Mobile
- 2G: The basics – calls and texts.
- 3G: Introduced mobile internet, giving smartphones their smarts.
- 4G: Faster speeds, smooth browsing, and HD streaming—even when you’re on the move.
- 5G: Super-fast downloads, lower lag, and more reliable performance, even in busy areas.
Important Update: 3G Shutdown ⚠️
- Our 3G network access will be switched off from January 2026 to focus on faster, more reliable 4G and 5G services.
- Older devices that only support 3G will no longer be able to make calls, send texts, or use mobile data after the shutdown. If you are a vulnerable caller under the 111-code, please contact your home phone service provider to ensure you are provided for in an emergency.
- To continue enjoying seamless service, ensure you have a 4G or 5G capable device. Most smartphones released since 2015 support 4G. You can check your device’s compatibility on the manufacturer’s website or contact our Care team.
- If you currently use a 3G-only device, we recommend upgrading before the shutdown to avoid service interruptions.
- We’ll send reminders closer to the shutdown date, and our Care team will help with any questions or device upgrades.
Things to Know About 4G
- What is 4G? 4G (also called LTE) is up to 10x faster than 3G, making it perfect for streaming, browsing, gaming, or scrolling on the go.
-
How to Get 4G on Zeronet ✅
- A 4G-capable phone or device.
- Zeronet 4G coverage in your area.
- Most phones released in NZ since 2020 support 4G (except some parallel imports).
Things to Know About 5G
- What is 5G? 5G builds on 4G with greater speed, lower latency, and more capacity. Imagine adding new lanes to a motorway—everything moves faster and smoother, even at peak times.
-
How to Get 5G on Zeronet ✅
- A 5G-capable phone or device.
- Zeronet 5G coverage in your area.
Switching on VoLTE in your settings
After updating your phone software, you may still need to manually enable VoLTE (Voice over LTE) in your device settings.
iPhone
Go to Settings
Select Mobile
Tap Mobile Data Options
Choose Voice & Data
Ensure 5G or 4G is selected (depending on your device)
Make sure the VoLTE toggle is enabled
Samsung
Go to Settings
Select Connections
Tap Mobile networks
Set Network mode to 5G / 4G auto connect (depending on device capability)
Ensure VoLTE calls is enabled
Xiaomi
Open the Phone app and dial:
*#*#86583#*#*
(This disables the VoLTE carrier check)Go to Settings
Select SIM cards & mobile networks
Choose your active 2degrees SIM
Toggle Use VoLTE ON (if not already enabled)
Confirm activation by checking that the VoLTE icon appears in the status bar
Other Android devices
Go to Settings
Select Mobile networks
Choose your active SIM
Set Network mode to 5G / 4G auto connect (depending on device capability)
Enable VoLTE calls
How to confirm VoLTE is working
Most phones will display VoLTE near the signal bars at the top of the screen.
During a call, if your phone stays on 4G or 5G, VoLTE is active.
If the phone drops to 3G, VoLTE may not be enabled or supported on your device.
Supported devices
VoLTE is supported on iPhone XS and newer, as well as most recent Samsung, OPPO, TCL, and other modern Android devices running the latest software.
We’re Here to Help
If you’re not sure whether your device supports 4G or 5G, or you have questions about our network, our Care team is here for you:
- Email:care@zeronet.co.nz
- Chat: Available at zeronet.co.nz/contact
- Hours: Monday to Saturday, 8AM–8PM (Closed Sundays & Public Holidays)
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