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Device Guides 1 min read

Can You Still Use a Moto G (first gen) in 2026?

No, the Moto G (first gen) can't make calls in the US in 2026. It's stuck on Android 5. What works, what doesn't, and what to check.

Founder & Lead Analyst, ShopCellPlans

Published October 3, 2026

Updated October 3, 2026

The Moto G (first gen) came out in 2013. No, not as a phone on US networks.

Key takeaways

The Moto G (first gen) can't make calls on US carriers.

It's stuck on Android 5.

It still has some offline uses.

The quick answer

Calls and texts: no, on US carriers
Software: stuck on Android 5
Still works offline or on Wi-Fi for some uses
Best kept as a backup device or collectible

Calls after the 3G shutdown

The first Moto G was a 3G phone, so it can't connect to US networks since 3G shut down.

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 Moto G (first gen) still work in 2026? +

No, not as a phone on US networks. The first Moto G was a 3G phone, so it can't connect to US networks since 3G shut down.

What's the last software version for the Moto G (first gen)? +

Android 5.

Keep reading

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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

#Motorola #Older phones #Moto G (first gen)

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

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Keep reading

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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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About the author

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