With the introduction of 5G, the way we use mobile data has changed dramatically. If you have an iPhone 12 or later, you have the opportunity to take advantage of this improved technology. In this article, you'll learn everything you need to know to get the most out of 5G on your iPhone.
5G technology offers significantly higher speeds and improved connectivity compared to previous generations of mobile networks. This opens up new possibilities for streaming, gaming and many other data-intensive applications. However, before you dive into the world of 5G, there are some important requirements and settings you should know.
Requirements for the use of 5G
To use 5G on your iPhone, you need:
- An iPhone 12 model or later: Only these models support 5G technology.
- A cellular provider that supports 5G: Make sure your provider offers 5G services in your area.
- A 5G mobile plan: You'll need a plan that's specifically designed for 5G. Contact your mobile operator to make sure your plan supports 5G.
SIM cards and eSIM
If your new iPhone comes with a physical SIM card or eSIM, use that. Otherwise, you can use the SIM card from your previous iPhone. In some cases, you'll need to contact your carrier to enable the SIM card for 5G.
Meaning of the 5G symbols
In the status bar of your iPhone, you can see different 5G icons that show you which type of 5G is available:
- 5G: Your carrier's standard 5G network is available, and your iPhone can connect to the Internet over that network. However, this isn't available in all countries or regions.
- 5G+, 5G UW, 5G UC: These symbols indicate that the higher frequency version of 5G is available, enabling even faster data rates. This availability also varies by region and provider.
Adjusting 5G options
Your iPhone's default settings are designed to optimize battery life and data usage, but you can customize these settings to suit your needs by going to Settings > Cellular > Data Options or Settings > Mobile Data > Data Options. If you're using dual SIM, go to Settings > Cellular or Settings > Mobile Data, then choose the number whose options you want to change.
Voice & Data Options
- 5G Auto: Enables Smart Data mode, which automatically switches between 5G and LTE to conserve battery life. The 5G icon will appear depending on your cellular network configuration and, in rare cases, even when 5G coverage is not available.
- 5G On: Always uses the 5G network when available. This may reduce battery life.
- LTE: Only uses the LTE network, even if 5G is available.
Additional settings such as 5G (standalone) and Voice over 5G Standalone are available in some regions. Contact your network operator for more information.
Allow more data in 5G
The “Allow more data in 5G” option allows you to enable higher data usage features for apps and system tasks. This includes:
- Higher quality FaceTime: Enjoy video calls with higher resolution and better stability.
- HD content on Apple TV: Stream films and series in razor-sharp HD quality.
- High-quality Apple Music tracks and videos: Experience music and videos in the best quality.
- iOS updates over cellular: Keep your iPhone up to date, even when Wi-Fi isn't available.
- Automatic iCloud backups: Back up your data regularly, even on the go.
This setting also allows third-party apps to use more mobile data for improved experiences. It is the default setting on some unlimited data plans that are carrier dependent. Note that this setting will use more mobile data.
standard and data saving mode
- Standard: Allows automatic updates and background tasks when using cellular, and uses standard quality settings for video and FaceTime. This is generally the default mode.
- Data saver: Helps reduce Wi-Fi and cellular data usage by pausing automatic updates and background tasks.
data roaming with 5G
Many mobile operators around the world support 5G roaming. If your operator doesn't, you can continue to use mobile data over 4G or LTE networks, or purchase a local SIM or eSIM with 5G. Contact your mobile operator for more information.
Troubleshooting 5G Connection
If you don't see a 5G icon in the status bar:
- Contact your mobile operator: Make sure your plan and location support 5G.
- Make sure you are in an area with 5G coverage: contact your provider if you are unsure.
- Check your 5G settings: Go to Settings > Cellular > Data Options or Settings > Mobile Data > Data Options. If you see this screen, your device is 5G ready.
- Enable airplane mode and then disable it: This may help reset the connection.
If 5G is still not available, contact your mobile operator.
More information and special settings
If you want to use 5G with dual SIM on an iPhone 12 model, make sure you have iOS 14.5 or later. You can also choose to always stream content at the highest quality:
- For music: Settings > Music Audio Quality > Mobile Streaming and tap High Quality.
- For TV: Settings > TV > Cellular or Settings > TV > Cellular Data and turn on Use Cellular Data if necessary, then tap High Quality.
Note that these settings use more cellular data and may take longer for content to play. When you turn on Low Power Mode, 5G is disabled, with exceptions for some cases like video streaming and large downloads on iPhone 12 and iPhone 13 models. On iPhone 12 models, Low Power Mode turns off 5G (standalone) when available.
iPhone: Get the most out of 5G with the right settings
Using 5G on your iPhone offers many benefits, from faster speeds to better connectivity. By making the right settings and meeting the requirements, you can take advantage of 5G's full potential. Contact your carrier to make sure you have a suitable plan and enjoy the benefits of this advanced technology. Looking for high-quality accessories? In our Amazon Storefront you will find numerous products from leading suppliers, ideal for HomeKit and much more! (Photo by Unsplash / Frederik Lipfert)
