How to access 5G for AT&T and Verizon customers
But not everyone wants to be able to take advantage of these C-band 5G networks out of port. You need three important things to access one: a newer smartphone model that supports 5G, a 5G-specific mobile plan and to be in an area with the new coverage.
AT&T and Verizon have a handful of devices that are compatible with theirs new C-band 5G networks, including the iPhone 12 and iPhone 13 models, the Samsung Galaxy S21 line and soon Google’s Pixel 6 phones. (For a complete list of C-band compatible devices, visit the AT&T and Verizon websites.)
But if you have not bought a new smartphone the last two years, you most likely have a 3G or 4G phone.
It’s only a matter of time before most new phones come with built-in 5G support, as manufacturers and operators will push customers towards it over other networks. (AT&T plans to close its 3G network next month, Verizon will close its 3G network by the end of the year and T-Mobile will close Sprint’s 3G network by March 31.)
Do I need a new mobile subscription?
If you own a 5G device, you still need a 5G-specific plan to access the faster C-band network. Existing 5G subscribers can do so at no extra cost. Both AT&T and Verizon offer plans starting at $ 35 a month for each phone line.
Where are the C-band networks?
Even if you have a 5G-compatible device and a 5G mobile subscription, you may not be able to access the new 5G higher speed network.
Anyone with a 5G compatible phone will be able to download the latest mobile operating system to access the network. On AT & T’s network, everyone in a 5G + market will see a “5G +” on top of the device when the network is available.
A “5G UW” indicator will appear on the top right of the device when a 5G phone on one of the plans is detected on the network.