Japanese telecommunications company NTT Docomo is on the brink of shutting down its 3G services, prompting questions about potential implications for users. Despite continued progression in technology, older systems like 3G are still utilized by certain demographic segments in Japan, and a seamless transition to contemporary network technologies may not be straightforward. Hence, concerns about the potential impact of this change are rising, particularly for users who may be left behind.

In Japan, the termination of older telecommunications technologies like 3G is considered a significant event due to the wide-spread implications it has for the user base - particularly older citizens who often struggle with frequent technology changes. It also holds weight in discussions about broader societal issues like the digital divide and the equitable access to important technology services across all demographic sections.

In the US and EU, shutting down older network technologies usually follows a similar process, wherein telecom companies ensure that customers are given ample notice and support for transitioning to the latest technologies. Such transitions also stimulate concerns about inequality of technology access but are generally accepted as necessary steps for technological progress.