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Is my phone 5G ready?

Wondering if your phone is ready for the super-fast world of 5G? You've come to the right place, here are a few ways to find out if you’re phone is 5G compatible.

To explore offers for your 5G ready smartphone, see our 5G SIM-only deals that have free EU roaming.

Simple steps to check if your phone is 5G compatible

Check your phone's settings

android settings app icon

Android

  1. Head into "Settings" 
  2. Navigate to "Network" (or "Connections" on some phones).
  3. Look for "Mobile Networks" and see if "5G" is listed among the network options.

apple settings app icon

iPhone

  1. Head to "Settings" 
  2. Tap on "Mobile Data" or "Cellular."
  3. Look for "Mobile Data Options" or "Cellular Data Options." If 5G is there, your phone is 5G-ready for you to enjoy!

Consult your phone's manual or manufacturer's website

Most manufacturers list their phone's specifications online, including the specific network compatibility. Search for your exact phone model and look for the "Network" or "Connectivity" section, if it mentions 5G, you're good to go!

Look for the 5G icon

If you're already in an area with 5G coverage and have a 5G plan, you might see a "5G" icon in your phone's status bar. This is a good sign, but if you don't see it, don't worry – it might just be that you're not in a 5G zone yet.



Use a speed test app

Several speed test apps like Ookla Speedtest or Opensignal can tell you which network types your phone supports. If 5G isn't an option, your phone likely doesn't support it.

Bonus tip: Contact your mobile carrier to confirm if they offer 5G coverage in your area and if you have a 5G-compatible plan. Some mobile carriers have their own coverage maps for you to see the live 5G areas close to you. 

FAQs about 5G and Smartphone use

My phone isn't 5G-ready, do I need to upgrade?

Not necessarily as 5G is still under development and many areas don't have widespread coverage yet. However, if you're looking for the fastest possible speeds and you're in an area with good 5G coverage, upgrading to a 5G-compatible phone and plan might be a good option. See our 5G SIM deals with free EU roaming and award-winning customer service. 

I see a "5G E" icon on my phone, what does that mean?

"5G E" stands for "5G Evolution" and It uses 4G LTE technology with some improvements to offer faster speeds than regular 4G. While it's not true 5G, it can provide a taste of the benefits before the full 5G network is available to your area.

Does 5G use more battery?

Yes, 5G can use more battery than 4G, especially when actively using data. However, many newer phones have improved battery efficiency and you can take steps to conserve battery life, like adjusting screen brightness and closing unused apps.

Remember: Even if your phone isn't 5G-ready yet, you can still enjoy the benefits of your current network. But if you're thinking about upgrading, knowing your phone's 5G capabilities can be helpful!

My phone isn't 5G-ready, do I need to upgrade right away?

Not necessarily, as the decision depends on your needs and usage habits. 5G is still evolving, and coverage isn't universal across the UK. If you're a casual user or your area lacks 5G access, waiting for wider availability and potentially lower upgrade costs might be more a better option. 

What's the difference between 5G types?

There are two main types of 5G: low-band and high-band which behave differently. Low-band 5G offers wider coverage but slower speeds, similar to enhanced 4G. High-band 5G delivers the super-fast speeds often advertised but with limited range and potential signal penetration issues.

Is 5G safe?

Extensive research hasn't found any conclusive evidence that 5G poses health risks to humans or pets. However, if you are unsure about 5G, you can continue with a 4G service. 

Will my existing phone plan work with 5G?

Most mobile carriers offer separate plans specifically for 5G access. It may be helpful to check with your carrier to see if your current plan includes 5G and what additional costs might be involved. All our SIMs are 5G to save you stress and come with free EU roaming.