How to Get 5G on Your Phone | Easy Setup Guide | MATE

Mobile Phone & Internet Blog | MATE | 21 March 2025

As we step into a new era of digital communication, 5G is rapidly transforming the way we interact, work, and play. What is 5G you ask? 5G stands for the fifth generation of mobile network technology. This revolutionary technology succeeds its predecessor, 4G and promises several improvements — network speeds like never before, lower latency (aka better response time), and the ability to support more simultaneous device connections. All of which brings a world of possibilities right to the palm of your hand. 

But to truly harness the power of 5G, it’s essential to understand its nuances and how you can make the most of it on your mobile device. Including a 5G phone compatibility check and discovering how to get 5G on your phone in the first place. 

 Let’s get you up to speed in this comprehensive guide, ensuring you’re fully equipped to dive into the fast-paced world of 5G connectivity.

Use the table of contents below to jump to each section of this post.

5G phones: Your gateway to faster speeds

When we talk about 5G, the first thing that comes to mind is speed. But to tap into this ultra-fast network, you need the right equipment—and that starts with your phone. Not all phones are created equal, and only specific models are equipped to handle the power of 5G. If you’re already asking yourself, ‘is my phone 5G compatible?’ it might be time to check your device’s specifications or speak to your mobile provider to confirm. While most new smartphones include 5G capabilities, older models may not!

For Android enthusiasts, a range of phones are now 5G-ready—from the Google Pixel series to the Samsung Galaxy editions. These devices come with built-in modems and antennas specifically designed to connect to 5G networks, ensuring you get the best experience possible. But it’s not just about Android; Apple is also driving the 5G revolution, with the iPhone 12 and later models supporting 5G connectivity.

Having a 5G-compatible phone is your ticket to a world of faster downloads, smoother streaming, and lag-free gaming. It’s like having a supercar in the world of mobile devices—built for speed and performance. So, before you dream of the lightning-fast internet, make sure your phone is up to the task. And even if you’re in an area where 5G isn’t yet available, most 5G phones are backward compatible with 4G, so you’ll still stay connected.

How fast is 5G compared to 4G?

5G offers significantly faster speeds than 4G. In optimal conditions, 5G networks in Australia can provide download speeds between 100Mbps and 1Gbps. However, the exact speed can vary based on factors like coverage, congestion, and interference. Even at the lower end, 5G can outperform 4G, especially in areas with strong signal strength and modern infrastructure.

While these speeds sound impressive, they also come with a potential trade-off: increased power consumption. 5G can use more battery than 4G, particularly during heavy data use. That said, most newer phones come with built-in optimisation features designed to manage battery life while still delivering high-speed performance.

How to turn on 5G or run a quick compatibility check

The process to see if your phone is 5G compatible and switching on this feature is relatively similar. Not to mention, pretty speedy. To truly experience the magic of 5G though, you’ll need to know how to enable and set it up correctly. So, how do you get 5G on your device? Let’s walk through the steps together.

Enable 5G on Android phones

Figuring out how to activate 5G on Samsung or Android devices is relatively straightforward:

1. Open the phone settings app.
2. Navigate to the “Network & Internet” section.
3. Look for the “Mobile Network” option and select it.
4. Within this, you’ll find the “Network Mode” or “Preferred Network Type” option. 
5. Select “Preferred Network Type”/”Network Mode”.
6. You’ll be presented with a list of network modes, which will include options like 3G, 4G, and 5G.
7. To activate 5G, select it from the list.
8. For those with a dual SIM phone, make sure you’re adjusting the settings for the SIM card that is 5G compatible.

It’s important to note that not all SIMs or plans support 5G. Always check with your provider to ensure compatibility.

How to activate 5G on iPhone

iPhone users get to boast fewer steps involved in their activation process:

1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
2. Tap on “Mobile”.
3. Choose “Mobile Data Options”.
4. Tap on “Voice & Data”.
5. Select either “5G Auto” or “5G On”.
   1. 5G Auto: Your iPhone will use 5G when it’s available and will revert to LTE when it’s not.
   2. 5G On: This forces your iPhone to always use 5G when it’s available.

If you’re using two SIM cards and only one supports 5G, ensure you’ve selected the correct line for 5G usage in the “Mobile” settings.

MATE’s 5G mobile plans

As Australia’s trusted mobile service provider, we’re proud to bring you some of the best 5G mobile plans available. With a range of options tailored to fit a variety of digital lifestyles, you’re sure to find a MATE plan that’s right for you!

Soul Mates 150GB 5G plan ($55/month):

• 5G enabled (download speeds capped at 250Mbps)
• 150GB of mobile data per month
• 1000GB data bank
• Unlimited talk & text to standard Aussie numbers
• Unlimited international talk & text to 15 selected countries
• Voice over LTE and Wi-Fi Calling
• No lock-in contracts
• Award-winning Aussie support
• No plan change fees

Brilliant Mates 65GB 5G plan ($45/month):

• 5G enabled (download speeds capped at 100Mbps)
• 65GB of mobile data per month
• 1000GB data bank
• Unlimited talk & text to standard Aussie numbers
• Unlimited international talk & text to 15 selected countries
• Voice over LTE and Wi-Fi Calling
• No lock-in contracts
• Award-winning Aussie support
• No plan change fees

Best Mates 50GB 5G plan ($40/month):

• 5G enabled (download speeds capped at 100Mbps)
• 50GB of mobile data per month
• 500GB data bank
• Unlimited talk & text to standard Aussie numbers
• Unlimited international talk & text to 15 selected countries
• Voice over LTE and Wi-Fi Calling
• No lock-in contracts
• Award-winning Aussie support
• No plan change fees

Great Mates 32GB 5G plan ($35/month):

• 5G enabled (download speeds capped at 100Mbps)
• 32GB of mobile data per month
• 500GB data bank
• Unlimited talk & text to standard Aussie numbers
• Unlimited international talk & text to 15 selected countries
• Voice over LTE and Wi-Fi Calling
• No lock-in contracts
• Award-winning Aussie support
• No plan change fees

With MATE, you’re not just getting a plan; you’re joining a community that values quality, trust, and top-tier service. So, are you ready to become a MATE?

5G network coverage in Australia

When it comes to mobile networks, 5G is the new kid on the block, promising faster speeds and more reliable connections. Across Australia, the 5G network is rapidly expanding, bringing with it a new era of connectivity. Major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane already boast strong 5G signals, with other regions not far behind. And it’s not just the urban areas; efforts are underway to ensure that even remote parts of the country aren’t left out. As the rollout continues, more and more Aussies will find themselves in areas blanketed by 5G. So, whether you’re in the heart of the city or enjoying the tranquillity of the countryside, 5G is set to be a part of your digital journey.

Troubleshooting: Why is my phone not connecting to 5G?

Stepping into the world of 5G is exciting, but like any technology, there can be hiccups along the way. If you’re facing challenges with your 5G connection, don’t fret! 

Smart Data mode

One common issue (specifically among iPhones) is the Smart Data mode, which might switch you back to 4G to save power. If you’re keen on staying connected to 5G, consider turning off the smart data mode. 

Low Power Mode

If your phone is in Low Power Mode, it might prioritise battery life over a 5G connection. Simply turning off the low power mode can get you back on the 5G track. 

Will 5G Replace Home Broadband or the nbn?

With speeds that rival many fixed-line internet connections, it’s easy to wonder whether 5G could eventually replace the NBN. While 5G has the potential to be a strong alternative for some households — particularly in metro areas with strong coverage — it’s not expected to fully replace the National Broadband Network. Instead, the two will continue to complement each other, offering consumers more flexibility depending on their location and internet needs.

The future is 5G

It’s clear that 5G is more than just a buzzword—it’s a game-changer. Whether you’re team Android or Apple, this new wave of mobile connectivity is set to revolutionise how we interact online. With faster speeds, reliable connections, and expansive coverage, the future of mobile internet is here. And with MATE’s tailored plans, embracing this technology has never been easier or more affordable. So, gear up, and get in on the action with MATE!

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