The rollout of 5G networks has transformed mobile connectivity, offering faster speeds, lower latency, and better performance for streaming, gaming, and downloads. Many Android users wonder whether they can upgrade their phone from 4G to 5G without confusion or costly mistakes. This SEO-optimized, step-by-step guide explains what is possible, what is not, and how to get the best 5G experience on Android.
Can You Really Upgrade a 4G Phone to 5G?
Before diving into steps, it’s important to understand one key fact:
A 4G-only Android phone cannot be upgraded to true 5G if it lacks 5G hardware.
5G requires a compatible modem and antenna built into the device. Software alone cannot add this capability.
However, many Android phones already include 5G hardware that is disabled or limited by software, carrier settings, or region. If your phone falls into this category, you can upgrade to 5G by following the steps below.
Step 1: Check If Your Android Phone Supports 5G
Start by confirming whether your phone is 5G-capable.
How to check:
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Open Settings
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Go to About Phone
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Note the processor or chipset
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Search online for the chipset specifications and look for 5G modem support
If your chipset supports 5G (for example, Snapdragon 750G, 778G, or Dimensity 800 series), your phone can use 5G once enabled.
Step 2: Enable 5G Network Mode on Android
In many cases, 5G is disabled by default.
Steps to enable 5G:
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Open Settings
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Tap Network & Internet or Connections
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Select Mobile Network
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Choose Preferred Network Type
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Select:
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5G/4G/3G/2G (Auto)
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or NR/LTE
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If 5G appears as an option, your device supports it.
Step 3: Update Android Software and Carrier Settings
Outdated software may prevent 5G access.
Make sure to:
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Update your Android OS
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Install security patches
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Apply carrier configuration updates
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Restart your phone after updates
Manufacturers often enable 5G through system updates once networks are ready.
Step 4: Use a 5G-Compatible SIM Card
An old SIM card can limit your phone to 4G, even if the device supports 5G.
What to do:
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Contact your carrier and request a 5G SIM
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Ensure your mobile plan includes 5G access
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Insert the new SIM and restart your phone
Step 5: Confirm 5G Coverage in Your Area
5G availability depends on location.
Check:
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Your carrier’s 5G coverage map
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Whether your phone supports the specific 5G bands used in your region
If you’re outside a 5G zone, your phone will automatically fall back to 4G LTE.
Step 6: Optimize Network Settings for Best 5G Performance
To get the most from 5G:
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Enable VoLTE
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Keep mobile data always active
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Disable unnecessary background apps
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Use Auto network selection
These steps ensure smoother handovers between 4G and 5G networks.
Step 7: What If Your Phone Is 4G-Only?
If your phone does not support 5G hardware, you cannot upgrade it to real 5G. However, you can still improve performance by:
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Enabling 4G LTE Advanced (4G+)
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Using carrier aggregation
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Switching to a less congested network area
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Using Wi-Fi 6 where available
These alternatives can deliver speeds close to early 5G performance.
Step 8: Avoid Fake 5G Upgrade Apps
Many apps claim to “convert 4G to 5G.” These apps:
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Do not enable real 5G
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Often display fake icons
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May drain battery or compromise privacy
No app can add 5G hardware to your phone.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can software updates turn a 4G phone into 5G?
No, software cannot replace missing 5G hardware.
Q2: Why does my 5G phone still show 4G?
This can happen due to poor coverage, disabled network mode, old SIM, or carrier restrictions.
Q3: Is 5G worth upgrading to?
Yes, if you stream, game, or download large files frequently and have good coverage.
Final Thoughts
Upgrading your Android phone from 4G to 5G is possible only if your device already supports 5G hardware. By enabling the right settings, updating software, using a 5G SIM, and ensuring coverage, you can enjoy the full benefits of 5G connectivity.
