Why is Ncell shutting down 3G?

With Ncell already expanding the modern network 4G nationwide, the shutting down of 3G will enable consumers to get connected with better network and technology, giving greater experience in both data and voice services.
After this change, Ncell’s 3G technology-based services will move to Voice Over Long Term Evolution (VoLTE) based on 4G technology. It is a new technology that provides clearer and better-quality high-definition voice calls along with quicker call connections. With VoLTE service, customers can make voice calls and use 4G data at the same time. 

To check and activate VoLTE service, please dial *123*11#. Once activated, please toggle ‘On’ VoLTE Settings in handset as mentioned in the video  

FAQ
1.    Why is Ncell shutting down 3G?
Closure of the 3G services provides customers with an opportunity to upgrade to 4G technology-based services. 3G is an older technology that limits bandwidth and is less efficient than 4G or higher services. Shutting down of 3G enables Ncell to develop 4G further with VoLTE and eventually move to 5G in the future.

2.    Will I be affected by the 3G shutdown?
No. Most customers will not be impacted by the shutdown. This shutdown will not impact customers using voice services at all. Voice services will work with the same quality in all networks, i.e. 2G and 4G. 

2.1 Customers with 4G SIM and VoLTE enabled handsets
If you have a VoLTE supported handset with a 4G SIM (USIM), your data services will not be impacted. To activate VoLTE, please dial *123*11# and toggle ‘On’ VoLTE in your phone settings. 

2.2 Customers with 3G SIM and VoLTE enabled handsets
If you have a VoLTE supported handset with a 3G SIM, you will need to visit nearby authorised Ncell POS, or Ncell Centre to upgrade to 4G for FREE. You will also receive 2GB data in the 4G network valid for 7 days. 

2.3 Customers with 3G SIM without VoLTE enabled handsets
If you have a 3G SIM without a VoLTE enabled handset, your voice services will not be affected. However, you will be unable to enjoy Ncell’s data services, unless you upgrade to 4G SIM and a VoLTE enabled handset. 

Please find the list of VoLTE enabled handsets in the attached link. (https://www.ncell.com.np/en/individual/offers/volte)

3.    I have an older device, will I be impacted?
If your device does not support the 4G LTE network, your device will support data services, until 3G shutdown is completed in your region. Even after the complete shutdown, your voice services will not be impacted at all. However, to enjoy Ncell’s 4G data services, you will have to move to a 4G compatible device.

4.    How do I swap my old 2G/3G SIM card to a 4G SIM?
To swap or upgrade SIM cards to the latest generation in Nepal, you need to visit any Ncell authorised POS or nearby Ncell Centre. More information can be obtained via 9005. 

5.    What is the benefit for me to move to 4G or VoLTE network? 
The following are the benefits of 4G or VoLTE:
- HD Voice: High-definition voice calls significantly improve voice clarity, and better quality compared to standard calls in 2G and 3G.

- Better coverage: Your phone network will have increased coverage and better connectivity. It means there will be less dropped call issues. 

- Simultaneous usage of data and voice: You can use Ncell 4G data without any interruption while simultaneously talking to someone on your phone. This was previously not possible. 

- Stay Sadhain ON!: Ncell’s improved VoLTE services will help you enjoy our product, Sadhain ON in more places across Nepal without much interruption!

6.    Where can I use Ncell VoLTE? 
Ncell VoLTE services can be used everywhere in Nepal. 

7.    How do I toggle ‘On’ VoLTE services on my device?
Firstly, you will have to activate Ncell VoLTE by dialing the USSD *123*11# or clicking on HD Voice >> Activate on your Ncell App. Once complete, you can toggle ‘On’ VoLTE on your device by: 

- For Android: 
Go to Settings > Network or Internet > Mobile Network > SIM and Network Settings > VoLTE or Enable VoLTE

- For iOS:
Go to Settings > Mobile Data (Cellular in some regions) > Mobile Data Options (Cellular data options) > Voice & Data > VoLTE ON. 

*You may need to restart your phone after toggling ‘On’ for both Android and iOS.