Why Old Phones Don't Have 5G Connectivity

That's because 5G isn't just a faster technology, it also requires specialized hardware and software.

Imagine putting a Blu-ray disc into a DVD player and expecting sharp picture quality. This is an absurd example, but it reflects the fact that older phones do not have the antennas, radio hardware, or software needed to use 5G technology. Only newer smartphones released in 2019 or later are capable of accessing 5G networks.

Phones without 5G will not be able to access 5G networks.

5G requires specialized hardware

5G is more than just a software update; it's the next generation of networks. 5G technology requires specialized hardware, like a new language that your device needs to understand. While 5G can use some of the same frequency bands as 4G, it also extends to higher frequencies, called millimeter waves. These high-frequency signals can handle huge amounts of data, but only if your phone has the right antenna and modem, which older phones don't have.

Additionally, 5G uses advanced communications protocols called 5G New Radio (5G NR). Older devices don't have the components needed to use these signals. Unlike computer software that can be updated, a phone's modem is fixed hardware. If that hardware isn't designed for 5G from the start, users won't be able to connect to the network.

5G requires specialized hardware to access.

Limitations of old phones when switching to 5G

Using older phones to connect to 5G networks is difficult due to hardware limitations. To use 5G, users will have to replace components such as the phone's antenna, radio chip, and possibly its processor. This is necessary because these components are designed for specific frequencies, while older phones' modems are often only compatible with 3G or 4G networks.

Many people may think of using an external 5G dongle to solve this problem. However, in reality, there is no product that is really effective in this, especially for phones. Carrying a bulky accessory can make the experience of using the phone more complicated.

An upgrade is necessary if you want your phone to access 5G networks.

Reasons to upgrade

As a result, upgrading to a new phone, even a refurbished model, makes more sense than ever to get users into the 5G world. The shift from 4G LTE to 5G is not just a step up in speed, but also a revolution in the way phones and cell towers communicate. 5G networks offer ultra-low latency, allowing information to be transmitted almost instantly, which is crucial for cutting-edge technologies like self-driving cars, remote surgery, and virtual reality.

When first experiencing 5G, the experience shows a clear difference in streaming high-definition videos and downloading large files. Older phones are not designed to meet these requirements, so upgrading to a new device will be the optimal solution. Moreover, with the continuous development of technology, who knows what 6G will bring in the future.

Isabella Humphrey

Update 10 February 2025