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5G is available at no extra cost on all iD Mobile plans. It’s the next step up from 4G, offering faster speeds, stronger connections, and smoother streaming:
What is 5G?
5G is the latest mobile network technology. It’s quicker than 4G, gives you better signal in busy areas, and reduces buffering when you’re streaming or on video calls.
How does 5G work?
5G runs on bandwidth that’s faster and wider than ever before. In fact, it offers up to five times the bandwidth of a 4G connection – that’s why it’s so speedy! Even better, 5G has a much larger data capacity than 3G or 4G. 5G on iD Mobile can support around 1000 more phones per metre than 4G, so you’ll get a much stronger signal in crowded places. Think of 5G like a motorway with hundreds of lanes. There’d never be any traffic and everything would flow smoothly. That’s exactly what using 5G is like.
How will I know that I’m on 5G?
To enjoy super-fast 5G, you need to be in a 5G area with a 5G capable phone. Once you have all these, you’ll see the 5G icon at the top of your screen, next to the signal bar. Hooray – you’re on speedy 5G! If you’re on Wi-Fi, the 5G icon may not appear. Make sure you’re disconnected from Wi-Fi before checking your 5G status. In areas without 5G, your phone will automatically connect to the next best thing: 4G. It will reconnect to 5G when you’re back in a 5G area. Phew.
Am I in a 5G area?
You might well be! iD Mobile 5G is available in over 400 locations across the UK. Use our handy coverage checker to find out if you’re in a 5G area.
Does 5G use more data than 4G?
Not necessarily. You’ll use the same amount of data as on 4G, but because 5G is so speedy, you might end up using your phone (and data) more. As an example, if you were to download a 3GB film, it’d take around 1 hour 8 minutes on 3G or about 40 minutes on 4G. With 5G, it’d take around 35 seconds – that’s a huge difference!
You could download tons of films on 5G in the same time it’d take to download one on 4G. That’s why, theoretically, you might end up using more of your data on 5G. It all depends on your use.
Can I run out of 5G data?
5G works the same as 4G and 3G, meaning you’ll get the same amount of data (but might use it faster). Whether you run out or not depends on your plan’s data allowance and how you use your phone. If you’re worried about it, make sure you keep an eye on your data consumption.
Simply log into the iD Mobile app or visit my.idmobile.co.uk to view your remaining data allowance. Alternatively, choose a plan with unlimited data so you can focus on the important stuff, like winning that virtual race! Check out the Community article below for more helpful information:
Is 5G safe?
Yes. 5G follows the same health and safety guidelines as 4G, 3G, and 2G, so we can assure you that it’s safe to use. Ofcom carries out extensive tests to ensure mobile phone signals are emitted in safe levels for people to use.