Since the beginning of phone numbers and area codes in 1947, many cities and regions have had to adjust their area codes. As populations grow and more phone numbers are needed, old area codes fill up quickly. One of Michigan’s most famous area codes, 313—known all over the world as the symbol of Detroit—is now running out of numbers. And because of this, a big change is coming soon.
Why Do We Even Have Area Codes?
Let’s go back in time for a moment. Area codes were introduced by the American Telephone & Telegraph company (AT&T) during World War II. Back then, if you wanted to make a long-distance phone call, you’d need an operator to manually connect you. This process was slow and inconvenient.
To make things faster, AT&T decided to create a system where every city or region had a specific area code. This allowed calls to be made quicker and easier, without needing an operator to step in. Eventually, this turned into a full North American telephone numbering plan. It worked so well that it became the standard system used today.
What’s Happening in Detroit Now?
Fast forward to today, and Detroit’s famous 313 area code is facing a serious issue. There simply aren’t enough phone numbers left under this area code. Over time, as Detroit’s population has grown, and as mobile phones, landlines, businesses, and services expanded, the number of available 313 phone numbers has steadily decreased.
This problem doesn’t just affect the city of Detroit—it impacts nearby neighborhoods too, as they also use the same 313 code.
To solve this, the North American Numbering Plan (NANP) suggested adding a new area code to Detroit and surrounding areas. After reviewing the situation, the Michigan Public Service Commission officially approved the plan.
The New Area Code: 679
Starting later this year, Detroit will introduce a brand new area code: 679. This new area code won’t replace the old one completely—it will be added as an overlay. That means both 313 and 679 numbers will exist in the same area at the same time.
But here’s the catch: Everyone will now have to dial 10 digits for all calls. Even if you’re calling your next-door neighbor, you’ll need to dial the area code followed by the phone number.
For example:
- Old way: Dial 555-1234
- New way: Dial 313-555-1234 (or 679-555-1234 for new numbers)
Why Is 10-Digit Dialing Required?
You might wonder—why not just keep things simple and avoid changing the way we dial? The answer lies in how phone systems work behind the scenes.
With two area codes covering the same location, there’s no way to tell which area code belongs to which number without dialing the full 10 digits. It avoids confusion and makes sure your call reaches the right person.
This switch is something many cities across the U.S. have already gone through. Detroit is simply the latest to face this change due to the popularity of its original area code.
What Does This Mean for You?
Here’s what you should expect:
- New phone numbers in Detroit may have a 679 area code.
- Existing numbers with a 313 area code will stay the same.
- All calls, whether local or long-distance, will require you to dial the area code first.
- No price changes will occur. Your calling rates will stay the same as they are now.
It’s important to update any saved contacts, business cards, or printed materials to include the area code. This ensures that your friends, family, and customers can still reach you easily.
When Will This Happen?
The exact date for the mandatory switch hasn’t been announced yet, but it’s expected to roll out by the end of this year or early next year. Residents and businesses will receive updates and reminders so they have enough time to adjust.
Why It’s a Big Deal
Detroit’s 313 area code isn’t just a phone number. It holds cultural significance. It’s part of the city’s identity, known globally through music, movies, and local pride. That’s why adding a new area code feels like a major shift.
However, this change is necessary to support the city’s growth and ensure there are enough phone numbers for everyone in the future.
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