SINGAPORE – 7 December, 2016: The Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) will de-register 2G-only mobile devices for sale for use in Singapore from 1 January 2017.
Retailers and equipment suppliers will not be allowed to sell 2G-only mobile devices to consumers for use in Singapore from the date. Those with a Dealer’s Individual Licence (DIL) may continue to sell 2G-only1 mobile devices2 for export purposes and/or overseas use only.
This is a continuation of the process towards the cessation of 2G networks and provision of 2G mobile services by Mobile Network Operators (MNO) with effect from 1 April 2017. The retirement of the legacy 2G networks will allow IMDA to re-allocate scarce radio frequency spectrum to meet the increasing demand for higher-speed mobile data and more advanced mobile services with rich multi-media content for consumers.
IMDA will work with the three MNOs – M1, Singtel and StarHub – to continue to facilitate the migration of 2G users to 3G or 4G networks. Customers with 2G mobile phones may upgrade their devices while still maintaining their current plans and prices with no additional subscription costs. All MNOs currently offer low-cost 3G mobile phones, and affected users are advised to call or approach their MNOs for further assistance.
IMDA strongly encourages consumers and enterprises to replace their 2G-only mobile devices with 3G or 4G-capable mobile devices before 1 April 2017 to avoid disruption to their mobile services.
Retailers and equipment suppliers who are found to be in breach of its DIL licence condition for selling unregistered 2G-only mobile devices for local use could face a financial penalty.
12G-only mobile devices refer to mobile devices which operate in the 880-915MHz/925-960MHz (GSM900) and 1710-1785MHz/1805-1880MHz (GSM1800) frequency bands only.
2Mobile Devices can include mobile phones, point-of-sales terminals, machine-to-machine equipment etc.
ISSUED BY THE INFOCOMM MEDIA DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
About Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA)
The Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) will develop a vibrant, world-class infocomm media sector that drives the economy, connects people, bonds communities and powers Singapore's Smart Nation vision. IMDA does this by developing talent, strengthening business capabilities, and enhancing Singapore's ICT and media infrastructure. IMDA also regulates the telecommunications and media sectors to safeguard consumer interests while fostering a pro-business environment. IMDA also enhances Singapore’s data protection regime through the Personal Data Protection Commission. For more news and information, visit www.imda.gov.sg or follow IMDA on Facebook IMDAsg and Twitter @IMDAsg.
For media clarifications, please contact:
Adrian CHAN (Mr)
Manager, Regulatory Communications, IMDA
DID: (65) 6211 1510
Email: adrian_km_chan@imda.gov.sg
Eugene NEUBRONNER (Mr)
Manager, Regulatory Communications, IMDA
DID: (65) 6211 1182
Email: eugene_neubronner@imda.gov.sg
Winston CHAI (Mr)
Deputy Director, Regulatory & Corporate Communications, IMDA
DID: (65) 9726 3238
Email: winston_chai@imda.gov.sg
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