The Emergency Call Service (ECS) Determination and incompatible mobile devices
Last Updated: Monday 24 Aug 2026
22 June 2026 – Apple iPhone and Samsung Galaxy devices
Australian telcos have confirmed that some older Apple and Samsung mobile devices cannot access the Emergency Call Service (ECS) in rare cases, including Triple Zero.
Most devices can be fixed by updating their software to the latest version.
Do not test this by calling Triple Zero.
To ensure Australians can access emergency services when they need it, the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has laid down rules requiring carriers to block incompatible mobile phones that can't reach Triple Zero. You can find out more info here.
Mobile devices can be incompatible for a few reasons: they may be designed to run on older technology like 3G, use networks that aren’t supported, or run outdated software.
The following list will be updated as our mobile network operator, Optus, identifies more incompatible devices. To fix the issue and avoid blocking, these devices will either need to have their software updated or be completely replaced.
We will contact you by email if your device is impacted. To make sure you can reach help in an emergency, we recommend taking urgent action to avoid your mobile service(s) being blocked.
You can check a device’s compatibility at Optus’ Device Checker tool.
As a rule of thumb, make sure to:
Keep your phone’s software updated. The latest updates often include fixes for compatibility issues, as well as important security improvements.
Check that any phone you’re buying is compatible with the Optus network using the Device Checker tool above.
Impacted devices
Lists updated 22 June 2026
If you have any questions, please reach out to us via the LiveChat bubble on the bottom right of this page, or over the phone on 1300 880 905.
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