Older Samsung Galaxy Phones Can’t Dial 000: Update or Lose Network
Certain Samsung Galaxy phones can’t reach 000 calls. Telstra, Optus, Vodafone warn users to update software or replace devices immediately.
image for illustrative purpose
Mobile users in Australia with specific older Samsung Galaxy smartphones have been alerted to take action without delay since a technical defect has made it impossible to make emergency calls to Triple Zero (000) when the main networks are down. The three major Australian telecom operators, Telstra, Optus and Vodafone, have commenced the process of informing affected customers regarding the mandatory update or the replacement of non-compliant devices.
The root cause of the problem can be traced back to the firmware of those specific Galaxy models, which is outdated. The tests carried out show that these devices try to place the emergency calls through the decommissioned 3G network of Vodafone if the coverage of Telstra or Optus is weak. Since the phones have not switched to the necessary 4G VoLTE emergency call system, the users might find it impossible to contact Triple Zero in critical moments.
It is the responsibility of Australia’s Federal Government to make sure that mobile operators do not compromise the access of their customers to emergency call services. Disconnection of non-compliant handsets from the networks will include standard calls, messaging, and mobile data.
The users concerned are being informed through email and SMS messages, and they are offered a limited period to solve the problem—generally ranging from 28 to 35 days. If they do not take action within the time allotted to them, their access to the network will be completely blocked.
The telecom companies have classified the affected Samsung Galaxy phones into two camps: those that will totally be replaced and those that will be updated only by software.
Immediate Replacement Required: Galaxy S6, S6 Edge, S7, S7 Edge, Note 5, Galaxy A5 (2017), Galaxy A7 (2017) and some Galaxy J-Series (2016/2017).
Software Update Available: Galaxy Note 10, Note 20, S20 series, Galaxy A31, A50, A71, and the models released up to 2021.
In total, there are about 11 Galaxy models that are to be replaced, while nearly 60 that are to be updated with the software. Users' actions
Notifications Checking: Search your inbox and SMS for notifications from Telstra, Optus, or Vodafone that will tell you if your device is among those affected.
Checking with Your Provider: Contact your cellular service provider and give them your IMEI number so they can tell you if a software update or a replacement of your device is required.
Do Updates or Replacement Right Away: Make sure your device is compliant for the sake of keeping emergency call access. Non-updated or non-replaced devices will get totally cut off.
