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5G FAQs
What is 5G?
5G is the next generation of mobile networks and it's expected to be transformational. On a 5G phone you'll notice two big benefits: faster speeds and rapid response times. On average, 5G is 10- 15 percent faster than 4G LTE and 5G+ is 10 times or more faster than 4G LTE, with an average speed of over 1 Gbps!
What's 5G vs 5G+?
With 5G+ you'll experience ultrafast data. It's about 10 times or more faster than 4G LTE, with an average speed of over 1 Gbps; responses are almost instantaneous! You'll enjoy smoother streaming, quicker uploads, more realistic video, and minimal delays.
On 5G you'll have speeds that, on average, are 10-15 percent faster than 4G. You'll generally find 5G+ in more urban areas and in venues that hold large crowds such sport arenas and concert halls, and 5G will be common in rural settings.
Your 5G experience may change as you travel, depending on whether you're on 5G+ or 5G.
When will Cellcom have 5G in my area?
Cellcom has 5G in areas throughout the U.S. We'll continue to expand our 5G coverage both locally and nationally in the months and years to come. We're committed to bringing 5G to cities and rural communities.
Do I have to buy a new phone to use 5G?
You must have a 5G phone to experience 5G after Cellcom turns up its network. You'll also need to have 5G software installed and Cellcom's latest SIM card in your phone. You may need to do an over-the-air software update and stop in a Cellcom store for a new SIM.
How do I know if my SIM card is 5G-compatible?
To access Cellcom's 5G network you must have the latest Cellcom SIM card. There are two ways to determine if you have the necessary SIM card:
- Physically: Remove your SIM card. If the SIM card is labeled "Mobile 2.0", your SIM card is 5G capable. If the card says "Mobile", visit a Cellcom location to request a new SIM card.
- Phone "About" Menu: Your phone's menu can display the ID of your SIM card. If your SIM card's ICCID has a prefix of 89018xxxx, you have a 5G-capable SIM card. If it does not, visit a Cellcom location to request a new SIM card.
- iOS/iPadOS: Open Settings, Select General, Select About. Scroll down to the Physical SIM section to view your ICCID.
- Android: Open Settings, Select About Phone, Select Status Information, Select SIM Card Status to view your ICCID.
What will happen to my 4G phone now that 5G has rolled out?
You can still use your 4G device now that 5G has been added to Cellcom's network; you just can't take advantage of 5G benefits. 5G will not replace 4G. It will complement and work in tandem with 4G for years to come.
Do I have to pay extra for 5G?
No, there is no additional charge for 5G. All 5G usage counts towards your plan's data allotment.
Do all plans include 5G?
5G access is included at no additional charge for the majority of service plans.
Are rural communities going to get 5G?
When you choose the simpler, quieter pace of a smaller community, you still want and need access to the same technology found in urban areas. Cellcom has always been committed to serving our rural customers and we plan to maintain this commitment as we rollout 5G. Cellcom will be rolling out 5G to additional Wisconsin communities in early 2022 and will expand 5G to more rural communities and nationally in 2022 and 2023.
Is the super-fast 5G+ only in metro areas?
Whether you're in the city, enjoying the slower pace of a rural community or relaxing in the Northwoods, you're going to appreciate the two big benefits of 5G: faster speeds and rapid response times. But just how much faster your 5G experience is compared to 4G will vary.
On 5G you'll have speeds that, on average, are 10-15 percent faster than 4G.
With 5G+ you'll experience ultrafast data - about 10 times or more faster than 4G - with an average speed of more than 1 Gbps. You'll enjoy smoother streaming, faster video uploads, and more responsive gaming.
You'll generally find 5G+ in more urban areas and in venues that hold large crowds such sport arenas and concert halls, and 5G will be more common in rural settings.
As you travel your 5G experience may change depending on whether you're on 5G+ or 5G.
Can I roam on other carrier's 5G networks?
Not yet. There's a lot of excitement around 5G, but it's still in its early days and coverage is relatively limited as compared to 4G. Carriers are working on roaming agreements, but arrangements are not yet finalized. If you leave Cellcom's service area, you will not be on 5G at this time. However, your 5G phone will continue to operate on 4G until 5G roaming is available in mid-2022.