T-Mobile’s 4G LTE network will be phased out by 2028

T-Mobile has clarified its position on the future of its 4G LTE network after reports suggested that customers using LTE-only phones or early 5G Non-Standalone (5G NSA) phones would have to upgrade soon. While initial information indicated a possible early phase-out of 4G services, the company has since confirmed that a complete shutdown is still on the cards. years away.

According to Anushka BishenT-Mobile’s Senior Communications Manager, the carrier continues to evaluate its resources but has no immediate plans to discontinue LTE. Bishen emphasized that an LTE shutdown is “years and years” in the future, noting that T-Mobile’s current infrastructure has enough capacity to meet modern data needs. The company will eventually consolidate older technologies like LTE to make way for advanced networks like 5g Standalone (5g up to) and future wireless innovations.

Originally, internal documents were obtained by The mobile report suggested that T-Mobile was preparing to phase out its LTE network 2026with a full transition largely completed by 2028. The process would involve reallocating LTE spectrum bands – including 2, 4/66, 12 and 71 MHz – to newer 5G NR bands (n2 and n66)improving network efficiency and 5G performance.

In 2028, LTE services are expected to remain operational at only minimal capacity a single 5 MHz channel—resulting in significantly reduced coverage and capacity. T-Mobile is expected to maintain limited LTE support until this year 2035mainly for older devices and IoT applications, but with noticeably reduced performance.

The transition will begin gradually business customers hit first. Start January 1, 2026T-Mobile plans to stop approving most new LTE and 5G NSA activations. Existing LTE contracts will not be renewed beyond 2035, demonstrating a clear commitment to a complete 5G ecosystem.

Despite the eventual closure, it is unlikely that most consumers will be affected. Since 2019almost all new smartphones are 5G compatible, and T-Mobile may offer free or discounted upgrades to customers still using older devices, similar to what it did during its 2G network will be decommissioned earlier in 2025.

Submitted General. Read more about 4G, 4G Lte and T-Mobile.