Australia’s 3G network officially shut down in 2024, bringing changes for users of medical devices like CPAP machines that relied on cellular connectivity. While your CPAP therapy will continue as usual, the way your device sends data to healthcare providers has changed. This guide explains the key dates for the 3G shutdown, how to manually upload therapy data, and the options available for staying connected by device brand.
Key Dates for the 3G Network Closure
The 3G network shutdown is part of Australia’s transition to faster and more reliable 4G and 5G networks. Here are the important dates:
- Telstra’s 3G Network Closure: 28 October 2024
- Optus’s 3G Network Closure: 28 October 2024
- Vodafone/TPG Telecom’s 3G Network Closure: Completed in January 2024
Following these closures, CPAP devices relying on 3G connectivity will no longer transmit data automatically. However, therapy delivery itself will not be affected.
Manual Data Upload Options
If automatic data uploads are no longer supported on your CPAP machine, you can manage your therapy data manually. These options work for all CPAP brands:
- Use an SD Card:
Most CPAP machines include an SD card that stores your therapy data. Simply remove the SD card from your device and give it to your healthcare provider during appointments. - Upload Data to SleepHQ:
If your healthcare provider uses SleepHQ, you can manually upload data from your SD card to the platform.
Access all your CPAP therapy data in one place with SleepHQ. View detailed sleep insights, easily share information with healthcare providers, and manage multiple devices through a single, user-friendly platform. SleepHQ keeps your complete therapy history accessible, even when switching between different CPAP brands.
To learn more about SleepHQ click here.
These options ensure your therapy data can still be reviewed by your care provider, even without automatic uploads
Staying Connected: Options by Brand and Machine
Here’s a breakdown of how each CPAP brand has addressed the 3G shutdown and the steps you can take to stay connected.
ResMed Devices
If you own a ResMed AirSense 10 or AirCurve 10 device with a 3G modem purchased after October 2021, the 3G shutdown means your therapy data no longer syncs wirelessly with the MyAir app. However, your therapy remains unaffected.
Your options if you would like to stay connected:
OPTION 1 – ResMed 3G Upgrade Program:
Devices with the following product codes are eligible for ResMed’s 3G to 4G Upgrade Program.
Step 1: Check If your device (Purchased after October 2021) is affected by looking at the 5 digit model number on the back of the device and checking if it matches this list:
- 37439: AirSense 10 Elite ANZ TRI 3G
- 37436: AirSense 10 AutoSet ANZ TRI 3G
- 37437: AirSense 10 AutoSet for Her ANZ TRI 3G
- 37438: AirCurve 10 CS PaceWave ANZ TRI 3G
Step 2: Verify your machine information with ResMed by filling in the form here. Once your machine is approved for the upgrade, ResMed will email a confirmation to you.
Step 3: Once ResMed has confirmed your device is eligible for an upgrade to 4G, please fill out the contact form on our website and select 3G Upgrade Program to initiate a warranty request on your behalf. You will need to send the device back to ResMed and once it has been received ResMed will issue you a brand new AirSense 10 4G or AirCurve 10 4G. You will be without therapy for about a week but it could take up to two weeks depending on ResMed’s processing times.
OPTION 2 – CPAP Online Trade-In:
If you have been approved for a AirSense 10 3G to AirSense 10 4G upgrade, we are offering customers the opportunity to upgrade to the brand new AirSense 11 device by trading in the AirSense 10 4G replacement issued by ResMed. You will need to pay the price difference and this offer cannot be used in conjunction with any sales.
Löwenstein Devices
If you use a Löwenstein Prisma device, the impact of the 3G shutdown depends on your machine model.
If you are using the PrismaSMART or PrismaPLUS (White Coloured Models), no action is needed as these devices already include an internal 4G modem.
If you are using the Prisma 20A or Prisma 20C (Black Coloured Models), these devices could be affected.
As the Prisma20 devices use an external modem the upgrade process is quite simple. Follow these steps to check your eligibility and order your free replacement.
Step 1: Check your modem is a 3G modem. Detach the modem from the machine and check the reference on the sticker. “REF: WM 31771”
Step 2: Once you have verified you have a 3G Modem, fill out the form on Löwenstein Medical Australia’s website to request a 4G Modem.
Step 3: Once you receive the 4G Modem, attach it to your device and you are good to go. Löwenstein Medical Australia may ask you to send the 3G modem back to them.
Fisher & Paykel SleepStyle Devices
The 3G modem in Fisher & Paykel SleepStyle devices no longer uploads data to the InfoSmart Web platform. Fisher & Paykel Healthcare are not offering any device upgrades. However, therapy delivery continues as usual, and there are alternative ways to manage your data.
Check if your device has a 3G or 4G modem:
- If your device has a batch or serial number that exceeds 2102463764 and 22122NK8N then your device contains a 4G modem and there is no further action needed.
Alternative ways to see your data:
- Use the SleepStyle App: Transfer data using Bluetooth. Pair your device with your smartphone and keep the app running to upload data seamlessly.
- Use the InfoUSB Stick: Transfer data manually by bringing the USB stick to your next appointment.
For more information about alternative ways to see your data click here.
For more information about 3G Network Closure & F&P SleepStyle click here.
Philips DreamStation Devices
The Australian 3G network affects DreamStation devices with 3G modems. Your therapy continues working normally, but data transmission will stop after this date.
Free 4G Modem Upgrade + Philips Offering A Free Mask
Eligible customers receive both a free 4G modem upgrade and a free Philips CPAP mask. You qualify if you:
- Purchased a DreamStation with 3G modem (Sept 1, 2023 – July 22, 2024)
- Purchased a standalone 3G modem (Sept 1, 2022 – July 22, 2024)
Both the 4G modem and free mask will be distributed together around late March 2025 but this could be delayed. The free mask is only available to Australian customers.
Meanwhile, Manage Your Data By:
- Using the DreamMapper app via Bluetooth
- Using the SD card (stores 6 months of data)
- Removing the 3G modem to stop error messages
To register for the upgrade and free mask package, visit the Philips registration website. You’ll need your modem’s serial number.
Other CPAP Devices
The following devices are unaffected as they either do not have connectivity at all or use another form of connectivity via WiFi or Bluetooth.
- Sefam S.Box Devices: These devices remain unaffected as they use Bluetooth or Wi-Fi for data transmission. No action is needed.
- BMC Devices: Older models only use an SD card. Newer models now feature Wi-Fi connectivity, ensuring uninterrupted data uploads.
- Transcend Micro Devices: These portable CPAP machines use Bluetooth for data transfer and are not impacted.
Final Note
The 3G network shutdown only affects data transmission; your CPAP therapy remains uninterrupted. If you’re unsure about your device’s compatibility or need help with upgrades, contact your CPAP supplier or healthcare provider for guidance.
By following the steps outlined above, you can ensure your therapy data continues to be monitored effectively, keeping you connected to your healthcare team.
