How to use 5G

Help and support

How to set up and use 5G on your device – Help and Support | O2

What is 5G and what does it mean for you?

5G on 02 is the latest generation of mobile connectivity. Offering faster speeds and lower latency compared to 4G, it means you can get a stronger and more reliable connection. It also promises delay-free downloads and buffer-free streaming when you're on the go. Explore more about the benefits of 5G on O2 – and see what you can do.

What is 5G Standalone

5G Standalone is our new, separate network that provides even better reliability – as well as more advanced features to come over time. It's different to our non-standalone network, which is built on top of our existing 4G network. Find out more about 5G Standalone – like where it's currently available, what devices are compatible, and SIM requirements

How to use 5G on your device?

All our Pay Monthly and SIM Only deals come with 5G included – so all you'll need is to get it is a compatible mobile phone and be in an area with coverage. Most new devices we sell are now 5G-enabled already. If you don't yet have one, take a look at our range of handsets.

How do I activate 5G on my device?

If your device is 5G ready, it will usually already be set up to receive 5G services. But you can still double check it's turned using our device support guides.

Where can I find 5G coverage?

O2 offers 5G connectivity to more than 50% of the UK population – covering in excess of 4,000 UK towns, cities and villages. Use our online 5G coverage checker to discover if you're in one of them.

I don’t have 5G coverage – but the coverage checker says I should?

We try to make sure our coverage checker is as accurate as possible. But, because it's based on predictions, it can never be 100% accurate. Trees, buildings and hills can all affect actual coverage, for example. And we'll update our coverage checker to factor in these limitations that may affect your 5G experience.

When will O2 5G be in my area?

As we prepare to switch off our 3G network in 2025, we're continuing to invest in our network so that more of our customers can enjoy the benefits of 5G. Our online coverage checker will keep you up to date with all areas that are served by our 5G network.

If you're not sure about any techy terms, check out our jargon buster.

5G FAQs

Do I need a new SIM to use O2 5G?

To use our 5G network, you'll need a 5G-ready device and O2 Pay Monthly SIM card. The good news is that all our SIMs are now 5G capable as standard. They're also the same size and shape as our other SIMs, so you won't have any problems inserting them into your phone.

Is 5G available on Pay As You Go?

5G connectivity is not currently available to our Pay As You Go customers.

How do I know if I have a 5G SIM?

You can check if you have the correct SIM by looking for the 5G icon next to where your signal strength indicator is. Please note – you'll need to have a compatible phone and be located an area with 5G coverage for this to happen.

Why is my O2 5G connection not working?

If you're having issues with your 5G connection, please check our network status checker to see if there are any known issues with our network. You can also use it to report a fault.

Alternatively, download the My Network app from the App Store or Google Play to get all the latest O2 network and coverage information at the touch of a button. The app lets you set up permanent watch-points in places you use our network regularly too

Can I use 5G while roaming?

Yes. With roaming switched on, you’ll be able to use 5G worldwide where coverage exists. With O2 Pay Monthly plans you can enjoy EU roaming up to 25GB, at no extra cost. Find out more about O2 roaming.

Does 5G how much data I use?

When you download a movie, the amount of data you’ll use is the same whether you used 4G or 5G. But, because it happens faster with 5G, it’ll be easier to download more things – and use more data.

Will using 5G drain my battery quicker?

It's likely you'll use up your battery faster if you choose to download a lot more data over our 5G network. But 5G is designed to be really efficient. So, if you're using your device in the same way as you would on our 4G network, your battery life won't be affected.

Will using 5G affect quality of voice calls?

No – 5G is a data service only and therefore won't impact calls. If you're connected to 5G and make/receive a call, your phone will automatically switch to 4G. For better call quality, you can always enable Wifi and 4G Calling if your phone supports these features.

Can I still use 5G data if I'm on a call?

When making or receiving a call, you won't be using our 5G network because it's a data-only service. If you have Wifi and 4G Calling enabled, however, you can use 4G data services. If you don't have Wifi and 4G Calling enabled, you'll be restricted to 3G data services.

Can I use my phone as a 5G hotspot?