How to Turn On 5G on an iPhone or Android Phone
Enable 5G in your phone’s cellular or mobile-network settings, then check plan, coverage, and device compatibility if it doesn’t connect.
Before you start
Check that your phone supports 5G, your carrier offers 5G in your area, and your cellular plan and SIM or eSIM are enabled for 5G. Availability depends on your carrier, location, and device model. If you use two SIMs, make sure you change settings for the line you use for mobile data.
Turn on 5G on an iPhone
Open Settings.
Tap Cellular or Mobile Data. If you use Dual SIM, select the relevant phone line.
Tap Cellular Data Options or Mobile Data Options, then Voice & Data.
Choose 5G Auto to let iPhone switch between 5G and LTE when appropriate, or 5G On to use 5G whenever it is available. Choose LTE to turn off 5G.
The 5G options are available on iPhone 12 models and later, subject to carrier and market support. 5G On may use more battery than 5G Auto. For Apple’s requirements and additional steps, see Apple’s guide to using 5G with iPhone.
Turn on 5G on an Android phone
Settings names vary by manufacturer, Android version, carrier, and model. Look for a mobile-network or SIM setting:
Open Settings and tap Network & internet or Connections.
Tap SIMs, Mobile network, or Mobile networks. If prompted, select the SIM you want to use for mobile data.
Tap Preferred network type, Network mode, or a similar option.
Select an option that includes 5G, such as 5G/LTE/3G/2G (auto connect). Avoid options labeled LTE-only or 4G-only if you want the phone to connect to 5G.
If you can’t find these options, search Settings for “5G” or check the instructions for your specific phone model through its manufacturer.
Troubleshooting: 5G isn’t showing
Check coverage and service
Move to a location where your carrier offers 5G, then check that mobile data is on and that the correct SIM is selected. A 5G setting does not guarantee a 5G connection: coverage, plan eligibility, and carrier network conditions matter. The status-bar icon and its meaning can also vary by carrier.
Refresh the connection
Turn Airplane Mode on, wait a few seconds, and turn it off. If 5G still does not appear, restart the phone and check the network-mode setting again.
Contact your carrier
Ask your carrier to confirm that your plan, SIM or eSIM, and current location support 5G. On iPhone, Apple also recommends contacting the carrier if these checks do not restore service. For Android, contact your carrier or consult your phone maker’s model-specific instructions. Menu labels and available network options can differ.
