T-Mobile has clarified its position regarding the future of its 4G LTE network after reports suggested that customers using only LTE or the first non-standalone 5G phones (5G NSA) would soon need to upgrade. While initial information indicated a possible early removal of 4G services, the company has since confirmed that a complete shutdown is still possible. years away.
According Anushka BishenSenior Communications Manager at T-Mobile, the operator continues to evaluate its resources but has no immediate plans to discontinue LTE. Bishen emphasized that the LTE shutdown is “years and years” in the future, noting that T-Mobile’s current infrastructure has enough capacity to meet modern data demands. Over time, the company will consolidate older technologies such as LTE to make way for advanced networks such as 5G standalone (5G SA) and future wireless innovations.
(Image: Mobile Report)
Originally, internal documents obtained by The mobile report suggested that T-Mobile was preparing to begin shutting down its LTE network starting in 2026with a full transition largely completed to 2028. The process would involve reallocating LTE spectrum bands, including 2, 4/66, 12 and 71 MHz, to new 5G NR bands (n2 and n66)improving network efficiency and 5G performance.
By 2028, LTE services are expected to remain operational only in a minimal capacity: approximately single 5 MHz channel—resulting in significantly reduced coverage and capacity. T-Mobile is expected to maintain limited LTE support until 2035primarily for legacy devices and IoT applications, but with noticeably degraded performance.
The transition will begin gradually, with commercial clients affected first. From January 1, 2026T-Mobile plans to stop approving most new LTE and 5G NSA activations. Existing LTE contracts will not be extended beyond 2035, indicating a firm commitment to a full 5G ecosystem.
Despite the eventual closure, most consumers are unlikely to be affected. From 2019Almost all new smartphones have supported 5G and T-Mobile may offer free or discounted upgrades to customers still using older devices, similar to what it did during its Retirement of the 2G network in early 2025.
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