Newsflash
Australian businesses at risk of operational disruptions and financial loss with looming 3G shutdowns
Sydney, AUSTRALIA, September 06, 2023
Fujitsu is urging Australian businesses to conduct a thorough review of all their devices & technology systems that rely on the soon-to-be decommissioned 3G network. Businesses caught unawares of the 3G network closures risk potential operational disruptions, customer dissatisfaction, productivity loss, & financial loss, if an action plan is not undertaken.
Australian telecommunications providers will decommission the 3G networks as early as December 2023, with Vodafone set to switch off the 3G network entirely on December 15th of this year, Telstra in June 2024 & Optus in September 2024.
According to Gartner’s Internet of Things, Endpoints & Communications 2020 – 2030 Update, the installed base of IoT endpoints in Australia on 3G is around 9.2 million. Of these 9.2 million devices, the critical services that are at risk of disruption include point-of-sale systems, EFTPOS machines, remote monitoring & tracking devices in vehicle fleets.
Fujitsu Head of Industry – Retail Clare Burden says, “Whether you’re a large retailer in groceries, convenience or fuel with thousands of devices, a local pharmacist, an owner of a vet clinic or a small chain of convenience stores, it is likely that the closure of 3G networks will affect how you conduct business & interact with customers. Due to the significant impact this might have on businesses, we really want to make sure it is on everyone’s agenda.
“While the move to 4G or 5G is not particularly challenging, business owners need to understand that it is more than just unplugging a device & connecting a new one. Depending on the size of your business & the number of 3G-connected devices, the upgrade could likely take months. We urge Aussie businesses to plan ahead & make this a priority to avoid potential disruptions.”
Fujitsu recommends Australian businesses especially those in retail follow a three-step approach to updating their devices and technology to ensure a smooth migration.
- Step One: Decommission exiting 3G devices. This can be a costly process, if not done correctly. However, this is dependent on the device and whether the technology is connected to the cloud.
- Step Two: Deploying the new device. Retailers need to consider aspects such as the device’s bandwidth and power, and whether the deployment is standard for all locations.
- Step Three: Compatibility. Retailers need to ensure the compatibility of new devices with existing payment systems.
Retailers who can seize new opportunities to migrate to 4G or 5G networks can expect to see faster and more reliable connectivity to adapt and thrive in the ever-evolving retail landscape.
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About Fujitsu
Fujitsu is the leading Japanese information and communication technology (ICT) company offering a full range of technology products, solutions and services. Approximately 170,000 Fujitsu people support customers in more than 100 countries. We use our experience and the power of ICT to shape the future of society with our customers. Fujitsu Limited (TSE: 6702) reported consolidated revenues of 4.4 trillion yen (US$47 billion) for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2013.
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Press Contacts
Date: September 06, 2023
City: Sydney, AUSTRALIA
Company: Fujitsu Australia Limited
