5G has several advantages over 4G or LTE. However, since it is still a stub, it is not an ideal network. So all 5G users now have to optionally turn 5G on or off on their iPhones to avoid battery drain, get better speeds, and manage data usage. This article will help you understand everything there is to know about 5G on iPhone.
Overall, 5G delivers better performance thanks to lower latency and interference. However, as of now, the perks come with some problems. But don’t worry, this guide will help you understand, manage, and master every aspect of 5G networks. Let’s start with the basics.
Which iPhones support 5G
Apple started rolling out 5G support for iPhone 12 and later. And while the high-frequency bands may vary, you can still enjoy the benefits of 5G using any of the following devices.
- iPhone 12″ series
- iPhone 13″ series
- iPhone SE 2022
- iPhone 14 series
Notably, 5G networks aren’t available globally yet, so you’ll have to check if your country, carrier, and cellular plan support 5G before you can take advantage of the benefits.
How to enable or disable 5G on iPhone
Step 1: Launch the Settings app.
Step 2: Select Cellular/Mobile Data.
Step 3: Tap Cellular Data Options/Cellular Data Options.
Step 4: Select Voice & Data.
Step 5: Now, select 5G On or 5G Auto to turn on the 5G network.
Alternatively, if you want to disable 5G, select LTE/4G from the options.
If you’re using multiple SIM or Dual SIM, launch Settings → Cellular → Mobile data options → select the number you want to turn 5G on or off.
Note: If you don’t see a 5G option, it’s likely that your current carrier or data plan doesn’t support it. Furthermore, Apple is still rolling out 5G support in many countries. So do a quick Google search to confirm and update your iPhone accordingly.
How to save battery when using 5G
While turning off 5G on an iPhone saves battery life, it’s not ideal. Why should you miss out on better speeds and connections? Thankfully, Apple offers 5G options that give you the best of both worlds.
You may notice the 3 options we get when we follow the steps above, see how each works and choose the best battery saver option for you.
- Enable 5G: iPhone uses the 5G network whenever available, although this can drain your battery faster if the network is unstable.
- 5G Auto: Selected by default, it will enable Smart Data mode. iPhone automatically switches to LTE when 5G isn’t performing well, i.e. weak signal or slower speeds. This saves battery life and provides a better overall experience.
- LTE: This will restrict your iPhone to only using the LTE network even when 5G is available.
How to manage 5G data mode preferences
Besides saving battery, Apple also offers data saving options. Named Data Mode, this setting allows you to save data when using the 5G network. Here’s how you can access these options.
Step 1: Launch Settings and go to Cellular/Cellular Data Options.
Step 2: Select Data Mode.
Step 3: You can choose any one of the following options:
- Enable more data on 5G
- Standard
- Low data mode
Confused about which one to choose? Read on to discover what each installation entails.
- Allow more data on 5G: As the name suggests, this is a non-blocking setting. System and application tasks (native and third-party) gain access to higher data usage for enhanced experiences ranging from higher quality video calls and high definition content streaming to automatic iCloud backup.
- Standard: Default and optimal modes provide standard quality settings for streaming and FaceTime, and enable automatic updates and background tasks on cellular networks.
- Low data mode: Set to pause automatic updates and background tasks to reduce data usage for mobile networks and Wi-Fi.
Should you turn off 5G on your iPhone?
Well, the answer is quite simple – you should turn off 5G if you want to save battery and data. In fact, disabling 5G could be the main solution to your iPhone’s overnight battery drain.
While in theory 5G should perform better in terms of battery life, the actual scenario is a bit different. Due to relatively poor network coverage, 5G consumes more battery than 4G.
Plus, 5G data plans are relatively expensive, so it needs to be managed properly. And while the world is upgrading and getting used to 5G, we will have to bear the brunt of these minor side effects.
Instructions for the 5G status bar icon on iPhone
You will see a 5G icon in the status bar when 5G is enabled and available in the region. Depending on your connection and data plan, you may see one of the following options.
- 5G: iPhone is connected to the base frequency or lower of the 5G network.
- 5G+, 5G UW, or 5G UC: iPhone is connected to the carrier’s high-frequency version of 5G.
- 5G+ means the higher frequency version.
- 5G UW means mmWave frequency 5G network.
- 5G UC (Ultra Massive Capacity) is a mid-band spectrum based network.
FAQ about Using 5G on iPhone
1. Does 5G support Data Roaming?
It depends on the carrier. You can enable or disable Data Roaming on 5G from Settings → Cellular → Cellular Data Options → toggle on/off the switch next to Data Roaming. If 5G roaming is not supported, the phone will automatically switch to 4G or LTE networks.
2. Does Low Power Mode disable 5G?
Generally yes, 5G is disabled when power saving mode is on. Although in some cases like downloading large files or streaming videos, 5G is not disabled (except for the iPhone 12 series).
3. Why does my iPhone record LTE instead of 5G?
If you don’t see 5G in the status bar, it could be a connection and coverage issue. You can try enabling/disabling Airplane mode or restarting the device to fix it. But if nothing works, contact your carrier.
4. Does iPhone 11 or iPhone XR support 5G?
Are not. Unfortunately, Apple has already started supporting 5G for iPhone 12 and later.
Pros and cons of 5G
Well, what can we say? There are pros and cons to almost everything, including 5G. While we feel most of the cons are temporary, as the 5G network expands we’ll be able to take full advantage of the speed without sacrificing battery life.
What do you think? Share your thoughts, comments, and queries about 5G with us in the comments section below.
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