Nearly 20 years ago, the 3G network ushered in the era of mobile internet. Today, however, this once groundbreaking mobile generation is considered outdated and has been replaced by the more powerful 4G and 5G networks. According to Swisscom, only 1.1 percent of mobile data traffic today runs over 3G, while the outdated network occupies a good 9 percent of antenna capacity. And this is limited.

To create capacity, 3G will be switched off nationwide by the end of the year. Salt has not yet announced a date, but Sunrise already made the move in June 2025, and Swisscom will follow by the end of 2025. From 31.12.2025, many old, still 3G-based EC devices will no longer function. This affects not only smartphones and tablets but also card reader devices.

Your company could also be affected by this step. Especially if your POS terminal has been in use for a while, you should check if it will still be operational in the future. If not, you need to arrange for a replacement device promptly, otherwise you risk a payment default and corresponding loss of revenue. But don't worry – Payrexx helps you with that!

How do you recognize if the 3G shutdown affects you?

The most important thing first: Only those devices connected to the mobile network are affected – that is, those with an integrated SIM card. If your card reader device runs purely over the WLAN network or another connection, it does not need to be replaced. However, a change may be advisable here too, as older devices are usually no longer updated by the manufacturer and may have security gaps.

You can check if your current card reader device (with SIM card) is based on the 3G network by the following points:

• Check the network display on your device: As with mobile phones, this is usually displayed in the top right corner of the screen. If it constantly shows 4G, LTE, or 5G, your terminal is not affected.

• Check the network settings of your device: These are usually found in the settings under menu items like "Connections" or "Mobile networks". It should be seen here whether your device uses 3G, 4G, or 5G.

• Look at the back of your device: On most devices, you will find a sticker here, which – in addition to other information, such as the serial number and barcode – also specifies the network. Be careful, look closely! Often the text is written very small.

• Ask your manufacturer or check their website. Most terminal providers have clearly communicated which of their devices will no longer function in the future. And if you do not find this information immediately, a support request or phone call is recommended.

Thanks to the integrated SIM card, the POS devices run everywhere, smoothly, via the 4G network.

What must you do if your device is affected?

If your current card reader device uses the 3G network, it means: Act quickly! If you don't replace the device by the end of 2025, you risk a payment default by 2026. Your device will then simply no longer function and cannot process payments. So, make sure to arrange for a new device promptly.

If your current terminal is a rental device, you should return it to the provider as soon as possible. Otherwise, you risk the provider refusing to take it back eventually, leaving you with unnecessary costs. Depending on the provider, delivery can also be delayed. Therefore, you should order as early as possible so that the new device arrives on time.

All of these are inconveniences you avoid with Payrexx. If you order your POS terminal from the leading Swiss payment provider for SMEs, it will arrive fully operational within a few business days. You just need to turn it on and can start receiving payments immediately, securely and reliably over the powerful 4G network.

Currently, you also benefit from the exclusive introductory price: Monthly you pay only 9 instead of 25 CHF for your POS terminal!

Learn more about Payrexx POS devices ➜

What must you do if your device is affected?

As the leading Swiss payment provider for SMEs, Payrexx has made it its mission to simplify payment transactions for businesses of all sizes – whether online or on-site. The Payrexx Nexgo POS terminals are accordingly not only powerful and reliable in payment transactions, they are also easy to handle and order.

With Payrexx, you can order a new device in just 3 steps:

1. Create a Payrexx account: Register yourself or your company with Payrexx, complete the verification process, and purchase the standard subscription.

2. Order your POS terminal: Select your new terminal in your Payrexx account and provide all necessary details for the order.

3. Receive your device: Within a maximum of 10 business days, your device arrives fully operational. And you can start receiving payments.

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With Payrexx, you get more than just a card reader device: The all-in-one solution includes a range of useful e-commerce tools that optimize your online presence. You can generate donation forms, create simple webshops, or send invoices via payment link – all fixed components of your Payrexx account, without hidden additional costs.

Local merchants benefit from the Payrexx Power Package: In addition to POS terminals, payments can also be received via QR Code or with Tap to Pay. The latter app turns your smartphone into a card reader device, enabling maximum flexibility. This way you can receive payments no matter where, when, how, and under any conditions: the perfect solution for every situation.

The Payrexx Power Package: Tap to Pay, Payrexx POS Terminals and Payrexx QR Pay.