5G? 5G+? How to Tell Which Version of 5G Your Phone Is Connected To
5G technology has been the talk of the town for a few years now, and it’s no wonder why. This fifth-generation network promises lightning-fast data transfer speeds, improved connectivity, and a range of cutting-edge applications that will transform the way we live, work, and play. However, not all 5G networks are created equal, and knowing which version of 5G your phone is connected to can make a big difference in terms of performance and reliability.
Firstly, we have to understand that there are two versions of 5G, namely 5G and 5G+. The former is also known as the sub-6GHz 5G, and is the more common version of 5G. It operates on lower frequency bands, which means the signals can travel further and penetrate obstacles like walls and buildings more effectively. This version of 5G is excellent for providing coverage in urban areas and is currently available in most major cities.
On the other hand, 5G+ is also known as the mmWave or millimeter-wave 5G, which operates on higher frequency bands. It offers even faster download and upload speeds than sub-6GHz 5G, but the signals have a shorter range and are more susceptible to obstructions. This is the version of 5G that’s ideal for use in crowded areas like stadiums and airports, where multiple devices require high-speed connectivity simultaneously. However, this variant is currently available in limited areas and is only supported by a few phones.
So, how do you tell which version of 5G your phone is connected to? The easiest way to check is by looking at the status bar on your phone. If you see “5G” without any additional symbols, then your phone is connected to the sub-6GHz 5G network. If you see “5G+,” it indicates that your phone is connected to the mmWave 5G network.
One important thing to note is that not all phones support both versions of 5G. Some devices only support sub-6GHz 5G, while others support both sub-6GHz 5G and mmWave 5G. Therefore, before purchasing a 5G phone, it’s crucial to check the specifications to ensure that it supports the version(s) of 5G that you need for your usage.