IMPORTANT: Canada’s 3G network is being gradually phased out. This situation will affect telecommunications providers across the country. For you, it means your device and SIM card will have to be VoLTE capable to connect to the mobile network.
Travel to the US: The US 3G networks are already out of service. To use your device south of the border, it must be VoLTE capable (for calling and texting) and LTE capable (for mobile data).
How to use VoLTE feature
The VoLTE feature is enabled by default in most of the devices. Check if it’s the case in your device settings. If not, be sure to meet the following conditions:
After enabling VoLTE, restart your device.
Note: To use the VoLTE feature outside Canada, you need to enable data roaming.
If you have a compatible device and its operating system is updated but you are unable to enable the VoLTE feature, get a VoLTE SIM card by contacting our Customer Service.
How to update my operating system
Follow the procedure based on your device model.
Note: Depending on your device’s model, the procedure may vary slightly.
iPhone
- Go to Settings and select General.
- Select Software Update.
Android
- In the Settings, select Software Update or System.
- Select System Update.
How to enable VoLTE feature
Follow the procedure based on your device model.
iPhone
Warning: VoLTE is enabled by default on devices running iOS17 or later.
- Go to Settings and select Cellular (or Cellular Data, or Mobile Data), then Cellular Data Options.
- Select Enable LTE.
- Select the Voice & Data option.
- Select 5G auto or LTE.
Samsung
Warning: Following an update, the VoLTE calls option has been removed from the Connections settings on the most recent Samsung devices (Galaxy S20 and later models), as VoLTE is now enabled by default.
- Go to Settings and select Connections.
- Select Mobile networks.
- Select VoLTE calls and turn it on.
Others (Android)
Warning: Following an update, the Calls on LTE option for the most recent Google devices (Pixel 4a and later models) is now greyed out and not accessible, as VoLTE is enabled by default.
- Go to Settings and select Network and Internet.
- Select Mobile Network (or Cellular Network or Mobile Data), or SIMs.
- Search for Preferred network type (or Network mode), then select LTE or 5G.
- Activate the VoLTE or Calls on LTE option.
VoLTE-compatible devices in Canada and the US
Is your device compatible?
To find out if your device supports VoLTE across all mobile networks, see the list of VoLTE-compatible devices in Canada and the United States.
Frequently asked questions about using VoLTE
Once the 3G network used by Canadian service providers is out of service, all calls and text messages will be carried on the LTE network using VoLTE.
Your current device may be compatible with VoLTE on the Videotron network. But to access the cellular network in some Québec regions, the rest of Canada, and in the United States, you’ll need a device and SIM card that’s compatible with our partner networks’ VoLTE. If not, you won’t be able to call, send or receive texts, or even use data outside the Videotron network.
Like any technology, cellular networks are constantly evolving and improving. 3G technology will soon be obsolete and replaced by VoLTE. VoLTE is based on LTE, which is faster and more flexible when it comes to transmitting data. VoLTE also gives you better audio quality.
The feature uses Mobile data only when you make or receive video calls and will be deducted from your Mobile plan. If you exceed your plan’s monthly data allowance, additional fees may apply.
Note that VoLTE calls remain functional even if mobile data is disabled in your device settings.
You’ll have to get a VoLTE-enabled device and SIM card that are compatible with our partner networks.
To do that and make sure you get the coverage you need, come see us in-store or contact us.
No. You still need a VoLTE-capable device and SIM card to use Wi-Fi Calling. Wi-Fi Calling, like VoLTE, is a technology for making calls over an Internet network.
Yes. The 3G network phaseout applies to all Canadian service providers. In the US, providers already don’t support 3G.
If you do not see your device in the list, contact our Customer Service to determine if you’ll need to change your mobile device or obtain a new SIM card before the 3G shutdown.
Some devices are compatible with VoLTE technology on a part of our network (Videotron network). However, they are not compatible with VoLTE technology used by our partner networks, which allow you to get mobile coverage in some areas of Québec, in the rest of Canada, and in the United States.
If you received an invitation to change your device, it is because it is not compatible with the VoLTE technology offered by our partner networks.
Without a compatible device, you may experience inconveniences such as an inability to connect to the mobile network depending on your location. You may not be able to take full advantage of your Canada or Canada–US cell phone plan.
Contact us or visit a Videotron store to get a device compatible across the whole network.