What Iphones Support 5G
Apple’s iPhone lineup has long been at the forefront of mobile technology, consistently setting benchmarks for performance, design, and connectivity. One of the most significant advancements in recent years has been the introduction of 5G connectivity—a leap that promises faster download and upload speeds, lower latency, and a more seamless mobile experience. As 5G networks continue to expand across the UK and worldwide, many consumers are eager to know which iPhones support this next-generation technology. Whether you’re considering an upgrade or simply curious about your current device, this comprehensive guide will answer the question: What iPhones support 5G?
The Dawn of 5G on iPhone: iPhone 12 Series and Beyond
Apple introduced 5G support with the launch of the iPhone 12 series in October 2020. Prior to this, no iPhone model supported 5G connectivity. This was a landmark moment, as Apple’s adoption of 5G was seen as a catalyst for the technology’s wider adoption across the globe. Since the iPhone 12, every new iPhone model has come equipped with 5G capabilities.
iPhone Models That Support 5G
Here’s a detailed breakdown of every iPhone model that supports 5G:
- iPhone 12 Mini
- iPhone 12
- iPhone 12 Pro
- iPhone 12 Pro Max
- iPhone 13 Mini
- iPhone 13
- iPhone 13 Pro
- iPhone 13 Pro Max
- iPhone SE (3rd generation, 2022)
- iPhone 14
- iPhone 14 Plus
- iPhone 14 Pro
- iPhone 14 Pro Max
- iPhone 15
- iPhone 15 Plus
- iPhone 15 Pro
- iPhone 15 Pro Max
Let’s take a closer look at each of these generations and what they offer in terms of 5G.
iPhone 12 Series: The First 5G iPhones
The iPhone 12 lineup marked Apple’s entry into the 5G era. All four models released in this generation—the iPhone 12 Mini, iPhone 12, iPhone 12 Pro, and iPhone 12 Pro Max—come with 5G support. This includes compatibility with both sub-6GHz 5G and, in some regions, the faster mmWave 5G (mainly in the US). For UK users, sub-6GHz is the primary 5G technology, offering a good balance of speed and coverage.
iPhone 13 Series: Building on 5G
Apple continued its commitment to 5G with the iPhone 13 series, which includes the iPhone 13 Mini, iPhone 13, iPhone 13 Pro, and iPhone 13 Pro Max. These models feature improved 5G performance, better battery life, and more efficient modems, ensuring a smoother experience as 5G networks become more widespread.
iPhone SE (3rd Generation): Affordable 5G
In March 2022, Apple released the third-generation iPhone SE. This model brought 5G to a more affordable price point, making high-speed connectivity accessible to a broader range of users. The iPhone SE (3rd generation) is particularly popular among those who prefer a smaller device or are looking for an entry-level iPhone with modern features.
iPhone 14 Series: Enhanced 5G Experience
The iPhone 14 series—comprising the iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro, and iPhone 14 Pro Max—further refined 5G capabilities. With more 5G bands supported and continued improvements in battery efficiency, these models are well-suited for users who want to take full advantage of the growing 5G infrastructure in the UK.
iPhone 15 Series: The Latest in 5G
The iPhone 15 series, launched in September 2023, includes the iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, and iPhone 15 Pro Max. These devices represent Apple’s most advanced 5G iPhones to date, featuring the latest modems, even broader band support, and enhanced performance for everything from streaming to gaming and video calls.
What About Earlier iPhones?
It’s important to note that no iPhone model released before the iPhone 12 supports 5G. This includes popular models like the iPhone 11, iPhone XR, iPhone XS, and all earlier generations. These devices are limited to 4G LTE connectivity, which, while still fast, doesn’t offer the same potential speeds and low latency as 5G.
How to Check if Your iPhone Supports 5G
If you’re unsure which iPhone model you have, you can check by going to Settings > General > About and looking at the “Model Name.” If your device is any of the models listed above (iPhone 12 or newer, or iPhone SE 3rd gen), it supports 5G.
How to Enable 5G on Your iPhone
To use 5G, you need to:
- Have a compatible iPhone (see list above)
- Use a mobile carrier that supports 5G (such as EE, Vodafone, O2, or Three in the UK)
- Be in an area with 5G coverage
- Have a 5G-enabled SIM card and plan
To enable 5G on your iPhone, go to Settings > Mobile Data > Mobile Data Options > Voice & Data, then select one of the 5G options. You can choose between “5G Auto” (which switches between 5G and 4G based on battery life and usage), “5G On” (always uses 5G when available), or “LTE” (uses 4G only).
Why Upgrade to a 5G iPhone?
With 5G networks rolling out rapidly across the UK, upgrading to a 5G iPhone can future-proof your device and ensure you’re ready to take advantage of the latest mobile experiences. Benefits include:
- Significantly faster download and upload speeds
- Lower latency for gaming and real-time applications
- Improved video streaming quality
- Enhanced connectivity in crowded areas
Conclusion: The Future is 5G
If you’re looking for an iPhone that supports 5G, you’ll need to choose from the iPhone 12 series or any newer model, including the affordable iPhone SE (3rd generation). As 5G coverage expands and more services take advantage of its capabilities, owning a 5G-enabled iPhone ensures you’re ready for whatever comes next in mobile technology. Whether you’re a power user or just want a device that keeps up with the pace of innovation, Apple’s 5G iPhones are a smart investment for the future.
