New Zealand’s 3G mobile network is being retired in early 2026 by all telecommunications providers including 2degrees, One NZ and Spark.
Many countries are implementing this change to enable the rollout of faster, more reliable 4G and 5G services. Importantly, 3G devices cannot be upgraded to work on 4G or 5G, so they will stop working when the network is shutdown. For more information visit https://www.3gshutdown.co.nz/
This change may impact some older survey and machine control systems, so if you have a device using 3G please contact Aptella as soon as possible to avoid disruption. Please note that all new Topcon and Sokkia products use the 4G network. Additionally, Topcon offers 4G upgrades for almost all its machine control systems to ensure full functionality. Systems up to 15 years old can be upgraded so please get in touch with your account manager.
The following solutions require an external modem that supports 4G. Please get in touch with your local dealer to discuss next steps:
AGI-4 RTK NTRIP, receiverAGI-3 RTK NTRIP, receiver.
If you have one of these products, please get in touch for further advice:
Additionally, some older Senceive monitoring sensors may be impacted.
The hardware affected and estimated cost and upgrade paths are details below.Â
Machine Control:
Excavators
MC-i3 based > POA
MC-i4 based > $1,100.00 + GST (fixed cost – parts, labour and return freight)
Dozers / Graders
MC-R3 with SL-100 > $1,100.00 + GST (fixed cost – parts, labour and return freight)
Survey Equipment:
FC-5000 / SHC5000 tablets > $550.00 + GST (fixed cost – parts, labour and return freight)
Note: If a field technician visit is required or rental equipment provided, this can be quoted on a as per request basis.Â
