I_like_Vintage_PCs

Q: Is It Possible to Get Cell Service for iPhone 3GS (2016)

Hello all! I have an old iPhone 3GS that I would like to lend for someone to use as a starter iPhone before they get a new one. I would like to know if it is at all possible to get Cell Service for this device from any carriers, particularly Verizon Wireless? I know it would have to be a 3G signal, but I've seen other people who still use iPhone 4's with a 3G connection in present day. So, what do you think? Is it a possibility? Any answers appreciated, thanks!

iPhone 3GS, iOS 6.1.6, Some Scratches, Good Condit. 1/6

Posted on Aug 19, 2016 4:40 PM

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Q: Is It Possible to Get Cell Service for iPhone 3GS (2016)

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  • by Michael Black,Solvedanswer

    Michael Black Michael Black Aug 19, 2016 5:01 PM in response to I_like_Vintage_PCs
    Level 7 (24,105 points)
    Aug 19, 2016 5:01 PM in response to I_like_Vintage_PCs

    Not with Verizon, no. The iPhone 3GS is a GSM-only phone so you may still be able to use it with AT&T or an MVNO who uses AT&T's network. But it cannot connect to any CDMA based carrier's network.

  • by Meg St._Clair,Helpful

    Meg St._Clair Meg St._Clair Aug 20, 2016 7:33 PM in response to I_like_Vintage_PCs
    Level 9 (58,419 points)
    iPhone
    Aug 20, 2016 7:33 PM in response to I_like_Vintage_PCs

    Honestly, I think you'd be doing both your friend and Apple a disservice by suggesting that they use a phone that old. It won't give them any sense of how iPhones work now and it may be quite frustrating for them. The iPhone SE is quite reasonably priced. But, just my opinion.

     

    Best of luck.

  • by I_like_Vintage_PCs,

    I_like_Vintage_PCs I_like_Vintage_PCs Aug 20, 2016 7:36 PM in response to Michael Black
    Level 1 (50 points)
    Notebooks
    Aug 20, 2016 7:36 PM in response to Michael Black

    Oh yeah, I remember now, that's right... I should have know. I consider myself fairly knowledgeable about Apple products, so I feel silly that I forgot that carriers other than AT&T didn't support the iPhone until the iPhone 4 was released. Thanks!