3G Devices and Network Phase-Out

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No matter how trivial it may sound, sooner or later everything comes to an end, and the 3G network is no exception. A couple of decades ago, cellular communication was an outlandish service available only to financially savvy people, and a huge telephone receiver with an antenna was a sign of belonging to the upper class. But today, in 2021, almost everyone can afford more than one cell phone, and even taxi drivers often use one device as a navigator, and the other for necessary communication.

So what is the fate of obsolete cellular technologies in an age when LTE networks have become a standard, and fifth-generation communications are increasingly approaching a similar status? When will 3G and 2G be disconnected in the US?

3G Destiny: What Do Mobile Providers Say?

Telecommunications providers have already been informing their subscribers about the disconnection of 3G networks for a period.

For instance, Verizon has approved a final cutoff date for its 3G network. This event, which was previously postponed several times, is due to occur on December 31, 2022. Back in 2018, the operator stopped connecting new devices to its 3G CDMA network, preparing to phase out the 3G technology. It was originally planned to end its support at the end of 2019. However, Verizon decided to postpone the deadline – first to the end of 2020, and then to the end of 2022.

At that time, AT&T also presented a plan to phase out the use of 3G technology in its network by February 2022, and already in January this year. In preparation for the implementation of this plan, this operator stopped activating devices that do not support HD Voice service.

T-Mobile USA recently caused a bit of a stir among its customers by announcing plans to shut down their 3G network in January 2022, and MVNO partner Dish Network warned that the implementation of this plan could cause serious problems for more than 9 million Boost Mobile customers.

Also, the major 3G outage in the US already has precedent. Sprint shut down its WiMAX network in 2015.

Will My 3G Phone Still Work After 3G Phase-Out?

“Unfortunately not, for the most part. When we turn off the 3G network, there will be no data or voice service for devices that do not have at least 4G capabilities. This means that while some of the device’s functions may still work, you will not you will be able to access our network unless you switch to a new device” – commented AT&T representatives, and for the most part, this is true for all phones and other 3G devices of all carriers when their respective networks are shut down.

In fact, the connectivity of your device will be determined directly by your mobile operator, as well as by the device itself, its type, and model.

At Verizon, all classic phones and 3G smartphones will be disabled, and it will also affect some 4G devices, in particular those that do not support VoLTE technology.

AT&T has taken a different approach and published a complete list of exactly which phones, tablets, and other devices will continue to work after the network shutdown scheduled for February 22, 2022. Thus, AT&T provides an easy way to figure out which mobile devices will continue to work after a 3g shutdown and which will not.

Disconnecting the 3G network with T-Mobile is a little more confusing. The company owns the so-called UMTS 3G, which, according to sources, will be disconnected in April 2022. As well as, the former 3G CDMA Sprint network, the disconnection of which is tentatively scheduled for January 1, 2022. T-Mobile has not released a list of affected devices. However, network users at any time have the opportunity to find out the IMEI of their device in order to understand whether it is compatible with LTE and VoLTE technologies, which in turn will determine whether a concrete device will continue to work after the phase-out of 3G networks.

So What Do I Do?

Due to the soon 3G Phase-Out, you must promptly solve all problems with the mobile network. First, you should contact the mobile operator whose services you are using. An alternative option is to visit your provider’s web resource. There you will most likely be able to get additional information about the current situation of the 3G network within the company, and you can also find out if this will affect your mobile phone or any other device. The sooner you do it, the better it will be, since you will have the information in advance, and any incident with the network or devices will not take you by surprise.

As mentioned earlier, some telecom operators post lists of compatible devices on their web resources, where you can quickly and conveniently familiarize yourself with those of them that will no longer be supported after 3G disconnection. You will most likely need to switch to operating a new device in order to be able to continue to communicate. In addition, mobile operators may offer promotions, discounts, free upgrades, or some other feature to help their users update their devices.

You may need to update the software on your device. You can check if your device is 4G LTE capable by going to your phone settings or by reading the user manual. It is also possible to search the Internet for your device model. This will help you find out exactly whether you need to change the software, or the device itself.

What Does the Future Hold for Us?

So, what will happen to the world’s communication standards after 3G Phase-Out? Of course, all new generation networks for the most part have advantages over their earlier counterparts. Higher bandwidth, ultra-reliable large-scale communication systems between devices, lower latency, internet speed, and less battery power. So the 4g and 5g networks continue to spread throughout the world.

However, rumors have been circulating about 6G for quite some time now. Its mass implementation is expected by analysts in the second half of 2020 – 2030, although most likely in the 2030s. In 2018, China announced the start of the development of the 6G mobile standard, and in November 2020 launched the first test satellite designed to test 6G technologies.

So far, there is not much information about the sixth-generation network, but it is assumed that 6G communication networks will use the terahertz and subterahertz frequency ranges and provide a significantly lower level of data transmission latency than 5G / IMT-2020 networks. Among the requirements for 6G networks, experts indicate data transfer rates from 100 Gbps to 1 Tbps, while artificial intelligence systems will be used to manage the networks.

VoLTE – is Your Device Following New Tech?

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What are VoLTE and LTE in Particular?

In order to understand what VoLTE (Voice over LTE) is, you must first understand how LTE (Long-Term Evolution) technology works. Long-Term Evolution is a modern standard for data transmission on the Internet, which is several times faster than a 3G connection. It is with its help that you can watch videos in HD quality without delay, download files, and upload large files. Just compare this: download speeds in LTE networks can reach up to 300 Mbps, and shipment – up to 170 Mbps. At the same time, the average speed of wired Internet hovers around only 100 Mbps.

However, LTE had a significant limitation for a long time period. This technology is designed only for data transmission, not voice. That means, if you are on an LTE network and receive an incoming call, your gadget automatically switches to 2G / 3G. That aspect causes a delay in the connection. In addition, the data transfer rate, which started in the LTE network, is reduced. So, what has been eventually invented to fix this? The solution to such problems was VoLTE technology.

VoLTE stands for Voice over LTE or 4G. Since the terms 4G and LTE are names for the same technology, they can be used interchangeably. In general, VoLTE technology provides the ability to make voice calls over an LTE / 4G mobile network.

Previously, 4G technology was used exclusively for the Internet. As already mentioned, you could have noticed a delay of several seconds before the caller’s phone starts ringing. Thanks to VoLTE, this delay is a thing of the past. In 2G and 3G networks, calls and data transmission were separate processes that could not be carried out at the same time. For example, when making a call on a 2G network, any incoming text messages at the same time were delivered only after the phone call ended. With 4G LTE, calls and data work simultaneously, which means text messages are delivered immediately, even during a call.

VoLTE’s Capabilities and Benefits. VoLTE over LTE

As you could already understand, VoLTE has an impressive number of advantages over its earlier counterparts, and at the moment this system can be called the standard of the new generation of voice communication. Here we will structure and provide its most significant differences and advantages:

1. Excellent Call Quality

VOLTE is endowed with higher sound quality than with 3G or 2G connections due to the support of a set of HD Voice codex. While in conventional telephony, the sound is transmitted at a frequency of up to 3400 Hz, then when calling via VoLTE, the sound range rises to 7000 Hz or more. The high-speed network transmits improved data that allows you to understand not only what the person is saying on the other end of the line, but also to determine the voice tone of the interlocutor, so you hear human speech without interference or distortion.

2. Ultra-Fast Connection and Large Coverage Area

VoLTE can connect calls 2 times faster than previous networks, and one base station through VoLTE can serve 3 times more subscribers. Communication coverage has increased so much that you can receive signals far from the tower or in buildings where other signals are difficult to penetrate.

3. Battery Charge Economy

With the advent of new technology, the operating time of mobile devices has increased. The mobile network began to support calls and the phone stopped spending energy resources on the constant transition from calls to data transmission and vice versa. All this led to a rapid discharge of the battery.

4. Multitasking and Continuous Connectivity

During a telephone conversation, you can use the LTE network to perform other tasks, comfortably working in this mode. That is, during the call, there is no interruption of the Internet connection or the distribution of traffic in modem mode. You can also talk on the phone at the same time, watch Instagram, download movies, navigate the terrain using the navigator, and so on.

5. Video Calls

Also, a significant advantage these days is the ability to make and receive video calls from someone using VoLTE, without relying on separate services.

But why haven’t we made 4G Calls Before?

The main problem with voice-over LTE was that 4G LTE is a data-only connection, so it didn’t initially support voice calls. And 3G and 2G connections were developed for calls, and only then the Internet was added to them.

Therefore, the developers had to create new protocols to support voice communications over LTE, and this is a lot of work, requiring the reconstruction of the entire voice communications infrastructure.

How do I know if My Phone Supports this Technology? Compatibility with VoLTE

If you own a mobile phone with a 3G connection, then you definitely need an update. And if you, like most smartphones, have 4G enabled, it can work great with VoLTE. Some phones may require special software updates.

VoLTE-Enabled Devices: Which One to Choose?

Today, smartphones with VoLTE are no longer uncommon in electronics stores – on Android, iOS, and Microsoft platforms. Here are the phones that support VoLTE today:

  1. Almost the entire line of Samsung Galaxy, including S3 LTE, S4, S5, Light, and many others;
  2. Apple iPhone 6 and above;
  3. LG G Pro F240S, Optimus LTE 2 F160LV, Optimus LTE III F260S, and some others;
  4. Nokia Lumia 830;
  5. ZTE Blade V 8, 9;
  6. Almost all Xiaomi models;
  7. Some models of Alcatel, Meizu, HTC, Huawei, Motorola, Google, Sony.

Naturally, this list is quite incomplete, since the list of devices is constantly expanding. Support for this technology is available in gadgets of different price categories. Most of them are of good quality and a full set of other modern functions, so choosing a suitable smartphone with VoLTE will not be difficult.

VoLTE Technology: Implementation and Perspectives in the World

By the beginning of 2018, nine countries have joined the full support of the VoLTE standard, including the United States (joined in 2012), Russia (2016), Australia (2016), Japan (2014), and Romania (2014). Today, most of the European countries are planning to introduce support for VoLTE, in particular Germany, France, Great Britain, the Netherlands, Italy, and others.

GSM Device Eligibility

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You can’t talk about the eligibility of your device with GSM (Global System for Mobile communication) without mentioning an alternative communication standard called CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access). Most of today’s mobile users do not really ponder about the preferences in mobile communication standards. Moreover, many do not even have an idea of ​​what it is and what the choice of one or another may affect. In this article, we’ll try figuring out what the difference is, what advantages GSM can give a user, and what advantages CDMA has.

A Bit of History

Since its inception, mobile communication has gone through the evolution of its quality and scale. The earliest communication standards, related to the 1G generation, were the wireless counterparts of conventional telephony. They had many cons: high power of transmitters which could negatively affect your health, low capacity of base stations, poor noise immunity, etc. Omitting the intermediate stages of their development, they were quickly replaced by second-generation 2G networks, which, in their turn, were better in many aspects, but still far from ideal. GSM became the first digital standard. It began to be implemented in 1991, gradually becoming the most widespread in the whole world. An alternative standard, CDMA technology, began its journey in 1995. It is most widespread in the USA and Russia. However, it is also used in some Asian and African countries, often in conjunction with competing GSM operators.

GSM and CDMA. How does it Work and What’s the Difference?

GSM and CDMA work under two different communications, but at the same time, in similar ways as well to achieve the same goal. The fact that each one has hugely popular networks built on top of it just proves that the quality of the network is important, not the standard. For example, in the United States, two of the four major carriers (Verizon and Sprint) use CDMA, while the other two (AT&T and T-Mobile) use GSM.

The GSM standard uses the time and frequency division of the channels. A small frequency band is allocated for each subscriber, on which the phone communicates with the base station. In this case, the “sessions” of data exchange are fixed in terms of the amount of time. If you try to explain it in simple words, the signal is interrupted, but due to the high frequency of data transmission, the subscriber does not notice this. In real life, interruptions are noticeable only by the characteristic squeaking sound of the speakers, when there is a phone nearby, which is being called or a message is received.

In turn, the CDMA standard uses code division signals. Each subscriber connected to the base station uses the entire available frequency resource common to all subscribers, and the base station communicates with everyone at the same time. The signal from a specific user is allocated using code modulation – each subscriber corresponds to a specific “code”, which allows him to be distinguished from the general radio air.

Is my phone compatible? How do I know this?

Many phones are only compatible with GSM or only CDMA, but not both. For CDMA phones, you will need to buy a phone designed for your specific carrier. The easiest way to do this is to buy directly from your carrier.

If you have a ready-made model of the device and you are just planning to choose an operator and want to find out its characteristics, then you can always find it out by googling or calling the appropriate authority, as well as by using the internal info settings of your phone directly. Each brand of the mobile phone has its own specific settings, so you may also need to google the information about the location of this data.

So, Which One is Better to Choose?

So what is the best communication standard? What to choose? These are the first questions that are asked by many potential mobile users who are aware of the existence of different standards. Of course, it makes sense, but in this case, there is no simple answer to this question.

The key difference between these standards is the way of working with the frequency resource. Overall, CDMA has some minor advantages over GSM. They consist mainly in the better quality of speech transmission (a large frequency band is resistant to interference), security (from the outside, the intercepted CDMA signal looks like noise, it is difficult to separate a separate subscriber from it), as well as the lower power consumption of the communication device.

Technically, if we think globally, then neither one nor the other is the best in terms of quality. However, there is one more additional nuance. GSM phones can be unlocked and moved between carriers, while CDMA phones are often tied to a single carrier and cannot be transferred.

Plus, most phones only come in GSM or CDMA models (although most of the most recent models support both), so your choice of a phone can determine which standard you end up using. On the other hand, it all depends on which operators are available to you in your area. Some areas may be better covered by GSM providers, while CDMA providers will have better coverage in other areas. It is also worth noting that the GSM standard supports SIM cards. They can be easily swapped out and rearranged into a new phone. CDMA does not provide for their use, everything is stored on the phone. It’s your decision whether it’s a plus or minus.

HOWEVER, THERE IS A THING…

Heralding CDMA’s Era Ending. What are the reasons?

Although the CDMA standard was good and popular for a long time, still, any technology sooner or later becomes obsolete. The CDMA standard has come to a natural end of its life cycle since it is outdated for a long time and loses in almost all parameters to modern 3G and 4G technologies. For instance, less than 1% of the company’s customers still use 3G services, according to a Verizon VP.

Thus, American telecommunications providers have been informing their subscribers for several years about the disconnection of 3G networks. For example, Verizon has approved a final shutdown date for its 3G CDMA network. This event, which was previously postponed several times, according to the statement, should occur on December 31, 2022. At the beginning of 2018, the operator stopped activating new 3G CDMA devices in its network, preparing to abandon this technology. It was originally planned to end its support at the end of 2019. However, later it was decided to postpone the closure – first to the end of 2020, and then to the end of 2022.

Also, AT&T presented a plan to phase out the use of 3G technology in its network by February 2022, and already in January of this year, in preparation for the implementation of this plan, this operator stopped activating devices that do not support HD Voice services.

All in all, it seems that GSM is now the route to go with the closure of CDMA.

Frequencies in the USA

AT&T (GSM). 3G – 850, 1900 MHz, 4G (LTE) – Bands 2, 4, 12/17, 30.

Verizon (CDMA). 3G – 850, 1900 MHz, 4G (LTE) – Bands 2, 4, 13.

T-Mobile (GSM). 3G – 1900, 1700/2100 MHz, 4G (LTE) – Bands 2, 4/66, 12.

Sprint (CDMA). 3G – 800, 1900 MHz, 4G (LTE) – Bands 25, 26, 41.

The Future of Metrocards and OMNY

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OMNY Replacing Metrocards?

OMNY which stands for One Metro New York is a contactless payment system that is currently still being implemented all over New York and its surrounding areas. Many New Yorkers know, but some may not. But by 2023, metro cards will be phased out by the MTA and replaced with a contactless payment method called OMNY.

As of December 31st, 2020, OMNY became available to all MTA buses and train stations. Now while this may cause some dissonance due to the integration of going cashless, and the fact that we can’t live in a cashless world, OMNY will become a huge step forward into more technological advancements. And with the ongoing pandemic as of this article, going contactless is a much safer and beneficial alternative to the MetroCard. 

The History of Metrocards

Before OMNY and even metro cards, tokens were used. But tokens became an inconvenience. They were heavy and made lots of noise. Thus in 1992, metro cards started being utilized.

These magnetic strip cards were refillable cards that took cash/card and then utilized on trains and buses. It was a much bigger convenience than token coins. And up till now, it was the best form of payment. There were many benefits to using a MetroCard such as buying a weekly or monthly card that allowed you to swipe unlimited times for a set amount of money. This saved a lot of money than paying consistently every time you enter the station. But now with new technological advancements, it became time to go even further, and out comes a payment method that didn’t require a physical card or the need to refill. 

How OMNY Works and Convenience

OMNY is basically a contactless payment method. This means that you can use any method that accepts tap. Such forms would be credit cards that allow tap or phones implementing payments like Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Samsung Pay. You would then just tap or hover your card/device over the OMNY reader and the payment would be accepted. 

Transfers and multiple riders are also acknowledged with OMNY. Just make sure that when you’re transferring, you’re using the same exact card you used and tap within the normal “two-hour window.” The same goes for multiple riders! Pay for how many riders you have and once transferring, tap the same amount of times, and the system will read them as free transfers. 

And for the people that can’t have cards or prefer to pay cash? OMNY will most likely create a card similar to a MetroCard that you don’t need to swipe. You just fill it with cash, and the card will be accepted at OMNY readers for you to just tap and go. 

Upgrade with OMNY

And while OMNY is still being phased in, consider getting a new advanced phone that is compatible with the likes of OMNY. 

The convenience of this system is that you don’t need your physical wallet on hand. It is much safer and reduces the risk of having your wallet snatched or robbed from you. It’s also much faster than taking out your wallet if you use a phone. Just implement your digital wallet, tap the card you want to pay, and go. It’s that simple! You can even choose what card you want to use, instead of searching for your MetroCard or having to think about what card you need to use to refill your MetroCard. 

Look no further to advance your phone and check out Allvoi’s wide variety of smartphones. From the Apple iPhone 12 Pro to the Samsung Galaxy Ultra 5G, get familiar with all the new advancements these smartphones have to offer. With various phone storages and an array of vibrant colors, 100% guarantee that you’ll find a phone that speaks to you. Here are all the best phones Allvoi has to offer!

Get excited with the new advancements that OMNY has to offer, and get started on preparing for the phase-out process! Call your bank to send you a card that offers a tap payment method, or update/upgrade your older phone to implement a digital wallet with the likes of Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, Google Pay. 

Allvoi Wireless Now Offers a Wider Selection of Powerful and Trendy Smartphones

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Allvoi Wireless, a Telecommunications Company focusing on smart prices for a premium wireless network, now offers an even wider selection of powerful and trendy smartphones like the Apple iPhone and Samsung Galaxy!

New York, NY: Following Allvoi Wireless’ journey as one of the leading premium wireless providers with their free and inexpensive smartphones, Allvoi Wireless now offers a huge selection of powerful performing smartphones like the Apple iPhone and Samsung Galaxy. By offering a huge variety of smartphones, customers interested in the latest models of smartphones, can now get and use one with the Allvoi Wireless network! This opens more doors and opportunities for younger customers and tech-savvy customers to flex their new phones while being on a wireless network that cares for the customer and their budget. Interested in getting your hands on one of these power-performing smartphones? All smartphones are already released on the Allvoi Wireless website for you to purchase. Head there now and get yourself some of the greatest and trendiest smartphones out there. Check out our website for all phones, services, and more at allvoi.com! 

To make things easier, here are all the new smartphones that Allvoi Wireless offers with all specs included: 

Apple iPhoneSamsung Galaxy
Apple iPhone 11(White Black, Green, Yellow, Purple in 64 GB, 128 GB, and 256 GB)Samsung Galaxy S10e (Prism Black in 128 GB and Prism Blue and White in 256 GB)
Apple iPhone 11 Pro (Space Gray, Silver, Midnight Green, Gold in 64 GB, 256 GB, and 512 GB)Samsung Galaxy S10 (Prism Black in 128 GB and Prism Black and White in 512 GB)
Apple iPhone 11 Pro Max(Space Gray, Silver, Midnight Green, Gold in 64 GB, 256 GB, and 512 GB)Samsung Galaxy S10+ (Prism Black in 128 GB and White in 1 TB)
Samsung Galaxy S20 (Cosmic Gray, Cloud Blue, and Cloud Pink in 128 GB)
Samsung Galaxy S20+ (Cosmic Gray, Cosmic Black, Cloud Blue, and Aura Blue in 128 GB; and Cosmic Black in 512 GB)
Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra 5G (Cosmic Gray and Cosmic Black in 128 GB)

Interested in getting your hands on one of these power-performing smartphones? All smartphones are already released on the Allvoi Wireless website for you to purchase. Head there now and get yourself some of the greatest and trendiest smartphones out there. Check out our website for all phones, services, and more at allvoi.com! 

About Allvoi Wireless: Allvoi Wireless is a leading wireless carrier in providing superior wireless network and service plans at better prices than the other competition. Get Unlimited Data, Talk & Text and access a reliable US network at a fraction of the price, with even more features! Enjoy free international calling, video-streaming, the groundbreaking 5G LTE, and more.

What To Do About Those Pesky Scam Calls?

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Scam calls, spam calls, robo calls – all these annoying callers are being a problem, and can be potentially dangerous if you’re not careful! 

Just last year, the American people received over 58 billion scam calls, a huge increase of over 22% from 2018 data. And with over 3 billion scam calls in just July 2020 alone, unfortunately things won’t be improving for the last 4 months of 2020. 

But that shouldn’t stop you from protecting yourself, your loved ones, and your data. Keep reading below for ways to stop those pesky scams calls and take control of your phone once and for all!

Scam Calls: What Are They?

They’re often associated with telemarketers or even worse, scammers. Scam calls are just what they are – calls made by scammers. But the main culprit are robot calls. Robot or Robo Calls are autodialed phone calls that deliver prerecorded phone messages to everyday consumers like us. 

Though, some robocalls are legal. When it comes to donations, political calls, etc. these are totally acceptable. But the reality is that these calls are significantly less than scam robocalls. 

But What’s the Big Deal?

First and foremost, we know that they’re incredibly annoying. We get these same call numbers frequently, even every day, and we just want it to stop. 

But it’s a little more than incredibly annoying. 

Scam calls can block you from reaching people who actually need you. What if you miss a call from a friend or an important and unexpected call from your boss because you accidentally answered the robocall? Even worse, some medical professionals have claimed that it’s getting harder to reach their patients due to robocalls. 

This nuisance has unfortunately changed the way we use our phone for the worse.

The Dreaded Scam Call

Robocalls can even dangerously progress to a scam call if you’re not too careful.  Scammers use robocalls to trick potential victims by pretending to be actual institutions like banks or cable providers. They then ask for personal information or financial information from the victim to help “resolve the issue.” 

Scammers can then use that information for their own personal gain. And what’s even worse is that Americans have lost over $9.5 billions dollars falling for scams every year. This has caused disastrous consequences for people who are deceived easily. 

But it’s not hard to prevent falling for scam calls either!

How Do I Stop Scam Calls Once and for All? 

There are some simple ways to stop getting scam calls, robocalls and other annoying callers trying to waste your time. 

There are certain apps, like YouMail which helps identify unanswered calls and if they spot scams and robocalls, YouMail will flag the number and block them so that the number can’t call anymore. Even better, if a suspicious number comes up calling, YouMail will forward the “out-of-service” tone so scammers will assume the number isn’t working anymore. 

But if that is a little too tech-savvy for you and you want to go more simpler, some phone providers and carriers have added features to identify scam calls and robocalls so you don’t have to answer them. Some are free that come with your wireless phone plan, and others are a small fee that’s totally worth it. 

At Allvoi Wireless, some of our unlimited phone plans like the Unlimited Starter and Unlimited Performance come with a feature that allows you to control fraudulent and unwanted phone calls. Best of all, it’s free so you don’t pay an extra charge for trying to rid of those pesky scam callers. It’s an added bonus to a great wireless phone plan! 

Don’t wait to ignore those scam calls that keep harassing you and your phone – do something about it! Whether you download an app or get a phone plan that comes with a scam call feature, know that you’re keeping you and your data safe and sound!

How to Keep Your Phone Clean

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Studies have shown that cellphones are one of the dirtiest objects we come into contact every day. Shockingly, the average phone has 18 times more bacteria than a public restroom handle – and you’re probably wondering why. Our phones are always traveling with us to work, to the restroom, to the kitchen, etc. It’s one of the top essentials you need. And with the ongoing coronavirus disease, it’s more important now than ever to keep your hygiene and especially your phone hygiene at bay. 

With our tips and suggestions, you don’t have to worry about your phone becoming a breeding ground for bacteria. And to make it even easier for you, we’ll also help you clean your phone on the inside with those unnecessary files and apps you still have. Here’s how to keep the germs away, and your peace of mind at bay.

The Ins and Outs of Phone Hygiene

So how do you clean your phone from the inside and outside? 

A Clean Phone is a Happy Phone:
    • The most obvious thing you should be doing is cleaning your phone. A good start is a mixture of 60% water and 40% alcohol with a microfiber cloth. Swipe it gently across the front and back of your phone as well as a case if you are using one. A few times a month is good to destroy the germs from your phone. However, keep in mind that every phone is unique. Read the manufacturer manual and see the do’s and don’ts on how to clean your phone.

    • Wash Your Hands… Always:
    • I’m sure your parents taught you this when you were young, but surprisingly, a lot of people skip this important step. Washing your hands isn’t only important to help with a clean phone, but it also helps your health and safety. Wash your hands with soap for at least 20 seconds to help destroy the germs on your phones. Do it a few times a day such as once you get home, or after using the bathroom. And if you’re outside, a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol will also help destroy germs and bacteria. By washing your hands, you’re reducing contaminating your phone when you touch it!

    • You’re Not Married to Your Phone:
    • If you’re reading this sitting on a toilet in the bathroom – then this part is important to you! You’re not committed to your phone, which means you don’t need to bring it everywhere, especially in the bathroom. When you flush the toilet, germs spread everywhere, especially on your phone. Leave your phone outside the bathroom. And if you’re going to be there a while without entertainment, shampoo labels have always been there for you.

    • Delete Your Ex’s Photos Already:
    • We know it hurts, but it hurts more when your phone keeps telling you that there is no more data storage when you want to take a picture. The average number of photos individuals have on their phone is over 2000; a lot of them are unfortunately exes and unnecessary photos. Take the time to delete photos you don’t need – especially that ex from like 2 years ago. If you do have photos that are important to you, Allvoi recommends linking your phone to a cloud or a drive so you can keep the photos there instead of your phone. More phone storage means more photos with your new partner!

    • Your Phone is Getting Slow Isn’t It?:
    • Is your phone getting slow and you’re wondering why? Do you ever check to see how many apps you’re not using? Go on your phone right now and check to see how many apps you’re using. I’m guessing you’re only using 40% of those apps, right? It’s high time to finally remove those unused apps you’ve been saving on your phone thinking you’ll use it. You’ll have more data storage so you can take more photos and download apps you can actually use. Best of all, your phone will start working faster too.

    • Help prevent the spread of COVID-19 and keep your phone clean with our recommendations. Our phones are an essential part of our lives, and by doing our part to reduce germs and bacteria – we’ll have good hygiene and good phone hygiene too. Have any more tips? Comment them down below. And read our other article on what other essentials you need for the health crisis.

    Coping with COVID-19

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    Girl leaning on knees sitting on windowsill and looking outside window

    The outbreak of the coronavirus 2019 disease has caused a lot of stress and anxiety for people. Though temporary, fear and anxiety can be overwhelming and detrimental to a person’s mental health. With our tips and suggestions, coping with the pandemic will make you, your loved ones, and your community safer and stronger!

    Everyone reacts differently to stressful situations. Responding to these situations with a positive attitude will help with your mental health as well as your community. Read on further for recommendations on how to keep your mental health up, and ways to take care of yourself during the coronavirus. 

    Ways to Cope with Coronavirus

    Take Social Media Breaks
    • With the mass amount of coverage surrounding the coronavirus, it’s a good idea to avoid watching, reading, and listening to news stories about the health crisis. Hearing and seeing it repeatedly can take a toll on your mental health so taking a break from the news and other social media outlets is a great help.

    • Your Health & Body is Important

    As a lot of people are stocking up on groceries and others shifting to remote learning, your priority should be self-care and caring for your health. There are a numerous amount of things you can do that is helpful to keep you both physically and mentally healthy:

    • Meditate and take deep breaths: Some companies and websites are offering free or reduced-priced courses on meditation and breathing to help relax your mental health. There are also lots of free ones on YouTube so you can stay calm and reduce anxiety. It’s quick, simple, and can relax the stress on the brain.
    • Eat balanced meals: Although we are all doing our part to stay home, it doesn’t mean you should forget everything and eat whatever is in your fridge. Stock up on balanced food options that can last a while: beans, rice, canned veggies, etc. A well-balanced diet will help so you don’t feel sluggish and lazy. But, don’t ignore guilty pleasures as well – chocolates, cookies, chips and other snacks can be good for the soul too!
    • Movement is key: Like above, you shouldn’t be laying in bed all day, every day. There are also free videos on YouTube so you can be motivated to exercise or stretch. Whether it’s 10 minutes or 5, this will help keep your body pumping. And with safety precautions, you can also jog or take walks outside.
    • Substances: Alcohol and drugs should be generally avoided as it can spike stress and anxiety for some. However, these can calm individuals down during times of distress so use these with precaution. Moderation is key so use discretion is advised.

    • Find Something to Keep You Company
    • With a lot of the workforce shifting to remote work at home due to COVID-19, there is more time than ever to do things. By saving commute time and traffic time, individuals have more time in the day to complete tasks. Find a hobby, complete a course online, or do one thing you’ve been wanting to do for a while but never had the time. By keeping ourselves and our family busy, we’re doing things we love than focusing on the negatives.

    • Physically Distance for COVID-19, not Socially
    • To flatten the curve and reduce the spread of COVID-19, individuals are advised to distance themselves. However, that doesn’t mean we should avoid everyone all together. Use this time to connect with others and rebuild relationships. Talk to people you trust your feelings too, and check in on others who are feeling the same way. Relating to someone with the same feelings as you are a good coping mechanism. Additionally, there are many sites you can use to video chat with loved ones everywhere. 
      • BUT, internet connection can be expensive sometimes so a good phone with a great inexpensive phone plan is another great option. Did you know that Allvoi has some of thebest-rated unlimited wireless phone plans? With unlimited data, talk & text for only $30, as well as free international calling, don’t worry about large expenses with us. Check outour plans and save with one of them today!

      • We hope that these tips and suggestions help you stay safe and healthy during COVID-19. By doing your part to stay safe, you’re helping yourself stay healthy and the community as a whole.

      Remember that we are also here for you for any concerns you may have. Contact us if you have any other questions/concerns and share this with your friends and loved ones and let’s get through this!

    • Working from Home Can Be Hard

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    It doesn’t have to be though!

    Working from home has its benefits. From avoiding long transportation commutes to unproductive workspaces – it’s a dream come true in saving time. But with the coronavirus pandemic affecting everyone’s work, staying quarantined and working in a new space can be a challenge. With the millions of Americans working from home every day and dramatically increasing as we speak, it’s time to make the most of your home workspace. 

    Keep reading for our four tips on how you, the WFH workforce, can be successful! 

    Improve your work environment, remove distractions, and use this time to maximize efficiency. 

    Have Efficient WFH Electronics

    The most obvious things you need when working from home are the right devices. A reliable internet connection with a working computer and webcam are crucial. You’ll need to be able to cam when there are conference calls going on with other team members, and obviously a computer to be able to do tasks needed. And don’t forget a reliable phone with a good phone plan.

    When you’re quarantined at home due to the coronavirus, our cellphones are going to be frequently used. From contacting friends/loved ones to sending out emails quickly to your employees/employers, you’ll need a good reliable phone with an inexpensive phone plan so that you don’t need to worry about expenses. With many companies shutting down or downsizing to make up for lost income, paying off expensive bills should be the last thing on your mind. Here are two great links for you to use if you want an inexpensive wireless phone plan with great benefits or a reliable phone that doesn’t break the bank. 

    Make sure to call/email your IT department first so that all personal programs and software are up to date and running. You’ll be prepared having everything you need to access personal files and applications. 

    The Right Space to Work from Home

    It’s hard adjusting working from home if you frequently commute to work, so setting up a proper workspace is beneficial to your work and success. You don’t need expensive furniture or equipment, all you need is your desk. Start with a designated space in your house that is strictly for work only. This space should be far away from your bed like near a window to pour in natural light or to open up for fresh air. 

    We recommend decorating your work desk with key essentials you’ll need to be productive. Things like a planner, a cup holder for markers/pens, and a calendar to keep track of deadlines. Your desk shouldn’t be cluttered, but it also shouldn’t be boring either. And if you don’t have a work desk, you can use the floor or a chair. You become the most creative when you need to be. 😉

    Self-Discipline & Productivity

    A workspace and the right tech equipment may be two of the most important things you need to get started – but the most important is you. Just because you’re stuck at home doesn’t mean your routine has to be drastically different. Set up your alarm to wake up at the same time you generally wake up for work, or find a good time to wake up (e.g. 8 AM). Doing this will keep you from sleeping in too much and waking up past noon. You should then shower and get dressed so you stay more in tune with your routine. Working in your bed with pajamas on just makes you even lazier. When you get dressed into your work clothing, you feel a boost of work motivation.

    From there, start listing your work plans, examine your goals for the day, and the amount of time you should be working on your goals. This helps you keep track of time and becomes more conducive to your success. And being productive doesn’t have to be an end-all-be-all. Take scheduled breaks to snack, make lunch, and more. Once you change your routine to accommodate your home setting and continually do the same routine – it’ll be easier for you. 

    WFH Mindset

    Working and quarantining should be more focused and productive. But it also doesn’t mean you should stress all the time. The right mindset will help you feel less anxious and more successful in your work ethic. Make your space feel more relaxed but not too cozy. Fix up your space, rearrange your furniture, and sweep your floors. You’ll feel less cluttered physically and mentally so you can start your workday. 

    The good thing about working from home is that you have more time now, since you do not need to be traveling for work. Use this extra time to take breaks when you’re working. Take time to meditate using apps/videos or exercising. And don’t forget that you’re not locked up at home. You can still walk around as long as you’re social distancing. A healthy and happy mindset is what will keep your workflow efficient. So use all the time you can to practice self-care and relaxation. 


    Take your time readjusting to working in a home-setting and use our tips and suggestions to make working from home worthwhile. And that you’re an expert on it, what are some tips/recommendations you have for those finding it hard to adjust?

    Quarantining at Home Due to Coronavirus?

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    With the COVID-19 pandemic sweeping the nation, you should be prepared when things go awry. As the virus continues to spread, the best precaution is to self-quarantine and stay home. And that means your key essentials are going to be the most important things when a disaster strikes. Use our guideline for goods and key items you need to keep you and your family safe and healthy. 

    Most importantly, always check the WHO and CDC for news and updates on the coronavirus. 

    Key Essentials for The Coronavirus Crisis

    What do you need when you’re stuck at home for two weeks or more?

    • Groceries​​​​

      •  If you’re going to be stuck at home for a long period of time, it’s best to start stocking up on essentials that can last you a little over two weeks. Make sure these are items that aren’t easily perishable since you’re more likely not to use them all in one day. Examples of non-perishable foods include pasta, rice, beans, and cereals. Canned proteins are also important such as vegetables, tuna, and meats. These staples are crucial since they do not expire easily. 

      • Purchasing chocolates and other snacks to switch up your eating habits help boost your mental health and morale so you’re not eating the same thing over and over again. As long as you are eating healthy and in moderation, you can eat those guilty pleasures you’ve been wanting. Just make sure to save groceries for other buyers who are in the same position as you.

    • Toiletries

      • Hygienic household products are also essential. Make sure you have enough toilet paper, soaps, hand sanitizers, feminine products, and diapers should you have small children. Thorough and frequent hand washing is the best and easiest way to protect yourself from the coronavirus. 

    • First-Aid Kit

      • This doesn’t necessarily need to be only for COVID-19, but a first-aid kid comes in handy when there are unexpected injuries. The kit should include supplies dedicated to treating injuries like cuts, scrapes, burns, swelling, and more. Ointments, bandages, thermometers, scissors should be included. 

      • And don’t forget medications! Checking your regular prescription drugs periodically maintains the organization and ensures you get a continuous supply. Aspirins and pain medications are also helpful in reducing pain and sickness.

    • Medical Supplies

      • If you wear glasses, contacts, use a hearing aid, and other devices, you should also stock up on things like contact solution and batteries. These supplies can last a pretty long time so you don’t need to continuously go out every time to get them. 

    • COVID-19 and Your Mental Health

      • It’s unfortunate that everyone is anxious and panicked about the coronavirus. There are many things you can do when you’re at home to stay calm. From streaming shows or reading books, be creative in what you can do at home. Find a new hobby or do the one thing you haven’t done in a while (e.g. exercising) – staying home doesn’t have to be all that terrible. 

      • And don’t forget your phone and other key electronics! Use your phone to contact friends you haven’t called in a while or check in on family overseas. At Allvoi, we have great priced unlimited wireless plans with unlimited data, talk & text at the lowest rates in the market. And free/discounted international calling is included so you can stay in touch with everyone, anywhere in the world. Just because we’re social distancing doesn’t mean we should forget about our friends and loved ones.

    With everything that’s going on right, we should unite together and support each other during the health crisis. Whether it’s helping your neighbors or supporting your loved ones – we’re only stronger together! 

    Keep you and your loved ones prepared and use this time to be more connected than ever!