3G shutdown

[Cymraeg24]

I did not get any notification about 3G shutting down. I have been happily sending texts but today discovered I can no longer call out or receive calls. I texted "handset" to 150 and was told that my handset does support 4G - but it's been working on 3G ever since I had it and I have no idea how - or if - I can change it. I've looked at various suggestions online but I can't seem to find the options they suggest. I need to know if my phone is compatible with 4G or if I have to get a new phone. I have a 5G compatible sim card from when I took out a new contract a couple of years ago. 

Any help would be great.

[Cymraeg24]

I'm on a monthly contract.

[bristolian]

Can you be more specific what "It just says something about re-directing" means - what is the exact wording? And is this an on-screen warning or an audible announcement?

Same question for "congestion when I try to call"

The Blackberry Curve 8520 is a 2G-only device - https://www.gsmarena.com/blackberry_curve_8520-2889.php 

[Cymraeg24]

On the screen. "Call forwarding conditional!" appears followed by
"Congestion!"

[bristolian]

The "Call forwarding conditional" on-screen popup is a side-effect of how older phones manage the call divert service, it should not cause any concern.

The "congestion" popup is an odd one though, I suspect it's the Curve mismanaging the failed call or potentially a network busy tone. But I wouldn't expect it permanently, by any stretch of the imagination. Do you get this message at all times, or just particular call attempts?

Ultimately the phone is from 2009, so 15 years old is almost an antique by current standards! You'd certainly do well to look for a newer 4G phone.

[Chris_B]

@Cymraeg24  If you just want calls/texts then my I suggest THIS  it’s a cheap phone but it’ll get 4G on it.   There are others you could choose from also.  

[Schockwave]

@Cymraeg24 , you may need a new SIM card, so I would suggest getting a replacement SIM card, which you can get free of postage by going to a high street EE store with ID, or ordering it online or via the EE app for a small fee, which will be sent via second class post..

[bristolian]

I have doubts that replacing the SIM is necessarily the solution, it allows authentication to the network which is evidently working if you can send texts. A 2way SIM-swap with a known working EE phone would be the acid test.

Going to an EE shop to test would be a wise move, they can also advise on budget 4G phones in stock, and replace your SIM with a new-size one if necessary.

[Cymraeg24]

The sim card is new. It's a 5G ready one.

[Cymraeg24]

I agree - as I said, when I took out the contract I was given a new 5G
ready sim card so I really don't think that's the problem.

And as you said, I have no problem sending texts which I doubt I would be
able to if it was the sim card.

I really don't want the expense of new phone. I only ever use it for texts
and to receive a very occasional phone call - usually when Tesco or
Sainsburys are going to arrive a bit early with my shopping...

Apart from regular texting with my friends, it's main purpose is
verification codes sent to me by people like the bank, teachers' pensions,
paypal etc to verify I am who I say I am. So I do need it - but I don't
need a fancy one.

[Chris_B]

@Cymraeg24  That’s why I linked a cheap and and cheerful £15 phone that works via 4G.