I recently got an iPhone 14pro and noticed while driving through super rural farms my data connection fails much more often than before on my old iPhone SE. I’m trying to learn about 5G and I think it’s because my phone is locked to 5G networks and can’t access the more established 4G networks, is this right?

Every Google search returns something like “5G stand alone is faster!” I don’t really care speed has never been an issue for the last few years for me. I’d much prefer actually having some data than none.

So I’ve turned off 5G standalone in hopes that my phone can now access 4G? Is this right? I just need data in the middle of nowhere.

  • The Shane
    4•1 year ago

    My understanding is that 5G runs on really high frequencies. These high frequencies don’t have penetrative abilities through buildings, and are very limited in range compared to lower frequency generations, like 3G and some 4G frequencies.

    The other problem you may have is that your provider just may not have infrastructure out that far, or even access to other telco towers.

    Definitely try to force a 4G connection if the phone will let you.

    • @green_dragon
      3•1 year ago

      Really it depends on the carrier you have. T-mobile in the US runs some of their 5g on the 600mhz spectrum, which is one of the lowest and most penetrating bands available. In dense urban areas the 5g service is run on much higher frequencies to allow more connections and bandwidth. I would allow the phone to choose what signal it feels it best.

    • @eduardm
      1•1 year ago

      I believe for iPhones you can turn off 5G in settings, as OP stated they did, but that would negate the whole advantage. Even so, isn’t 4G (or even 3G) more battery friendly?

      • BonzoOP
        2•1 year ago

        What do you mean by negate the whole advantage? Do you mean 5G speeds advantage, because I’ve never had an issue with speeds of 4G LTE. The issue I have is reliable coverage and I need to find a fix.

        • @eduardm
          1•1 year ago

          I apologize, my comment was not very clear. Normally, a (good) phone should automatically optimize for the best signal, regardless whether it’s 5G, LTE or anything else. If you do experience frequent signal loss, just disable 5G. Most areas do have LTE coverage, at the least 3G.

          So, yes, if you’re asking whether it’s right to disable 5G, in this case, you have no choice. (Which, again, is wrong, the phone should do it’s job in the first place)