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Device Guides 1 min read

Can You Still Use a Galaxy S3 in 2026?

No, the Galaxy S3 can't make calls in the US in 2026. It's stuck on Android 4.4. What works, what doesn't, and what to check.

Founder & Lead Analyst, ShopCellPlans

Published October 3, 2026

Updated October 3, 2026

The Galaxy S3 came out in 2012. No, not as a phone on US networks.

Key takeaways

The Galaxy S3 can't make calls on US carriers.

It's stuck on Android 4.4.

It still has some offline uses.

The quick answer

Calls and texts: no, on US carriers
Software: stuck on Android 4.4
Still works offline or on Wi-Fi for some uses
Best kept as a backup device or collectible

Calls after the 3G shutdown

Most Galaxy S3s were 3G phones, and even the 4G versions weren't approved for VoLTE, so they can't make calls on US carriers now.

Who it still works for

Collectors, or as an offline music player, camera or alarm. As a phone, it needs replacing.

If you're replacing it

A new moto g 2026 or Galaxy A17 costs little, gets years of updates, and several carriers give them away when you switch. Pair it with a low-cost plan such as Mint Mobile ($15 a month for 6GB on a 12-month term) or Visible ($25 for unlimited, taxes included).

Free phones when you switch

Current offers from Metro, T-Mobile, Verizon, AT&T and Xfinity.

See phone deals →

Frequently asked questions

Does the Galaxy S3 still work in 2026? +

No, not as a phone on US networks. Most Galaxy S3s were 3G phones, and even the 4G versions weren't approved for VoLTE, so they can't make calls on US carriers now.

What's the last software version for the Galaxy S3? +

Android 4.4.

Keep reading

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Guide Is my phone unlocked? 7 min read Guide Can you still use a Galaxy S8? 5 min read

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About the author

Jean Gilles has researched personal finance, consumer technology, and wireless pricing for over a decade. He founded ShopCellPlans in 2019 and writes every review on the site.

More about Jean How we rank plans

#Samsung #Older phones #Galaxy S3

Independent since 2019 · No paid placement, ever Prices re-checked weekly

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Price-change alerts

Get told when your plan’s price changes

One email when a carrier raises rates, drops a plan, or launches a deal worth switching for. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.

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