What does “LTE” mean on my Phone?

With the rapid growth of mobile data usage, the significance of LTE networks is increasing. One does not need a router to connect to the cellular data network. The phone’s built-in cellular modem allows for internet access via the cellular network.

But what does LTE mean on your phone? LTE provides fast peak data transmission, with initial speeds of up to 100 Mbps downstream and 30 Mbps upstream. Due to its high speeds, low latency, and improved capabilities, LTE enables users to enjoy faster data transfer rates, seamless browsing, and enhanced user experience.

To use the LTE, all you need is a data plan and a mobile device that enables you to connect to your cellular service provider’s network. In this article, let’s learn more about the LTE network, difference between networks, and how to change network types from one to another in phone.

What does LTE mean on the phone?

Do you know what the LTE full form is? LTE network means Long-Term Evolution and is also referred to as 4G LTE. It’s a standard for wireless data transmission that allows you to download and browse much faster than the previous technology, 3G network.

Now that you know what an LTE definition is, you might be aware that it enables you to connect to your mobile career’s high-speed wireless network.

Today, LTE is a standard for wireless data transmission that delivers high-speed internet access, video streaming, and online gaming on mobile devices. However, newer technologies provide better network performance and capabilities, such as the 5G network.

Let’s get started and understand how the 5G and 4G networks differ.

Difference between 4G LTE and 5G

5G services recently rolled out in a few countries, including South Korea, the United States, China, Japan, Italy, the United Kingdom, France, Canada, Finland, India, and the Philippines, whereas 4G was available in almost every country since 2009.

Elements	4G LTE	5G
Frequency Bands	It operates on up to 6GHz	5G can handle the radio bands anywhere from 30GHz to 300GHZ
Speed	4G LTE has a peak speed of around 1GB per second	5G can attain a speed of around 20GB per second
Latency	It offers latency levels of 50 to 100 milliseconds	5G offers 5 milliseconds over-the-air latency
Density	Only 100k devices can simultaneously operate in one square kilometer on a 4G LTE network	1 million devices can operate in one square kilometer simultaneously on a 5G network
Security Measures	Less secure than 5G	5G has the most appropriate network security level
Device Intelligence	No	5G has features that can determine the difference between fixed and mobile devices, meaning each user will get a more customized internet connection than 4G

Why does 4G or 5G phones show LTE?

So, what does LTE mean when it appears on your 4G or 5G phone? LTE is an older technology that is widely used. This is the significant reason why 5G networks may often use LTE as a fallback option.

Most cell networks today use both 4G and 5G bands. It means your 4G phone will work on a 5G network but won’t get that coveted speed.

If you have a 5G device, it may show the LTE on phone in scenarios where 5G coverage is limited. When you see 5G on your phone, it signifies that a 5G network is available. However, when LTE appears at the top of your phone, even when 5G is available, it means your device or network operator is not 5G compatible or does not offer 5G services.

How to change preferred network type to 5G on Android?

Are you thrilled to enable 5G on your smartphone? Now that the 5G has finally launched, Jio & Bharti Airtel confirmed that users are not required to replace their old SIM card to use 5G services. However, they must update the old 4G SIM card.

Let’s learn how to enable a 5G network on your Android phone:

Step 1: Open Settings

Step 2: Go to Connections/ Wi-Fi & Networks/ Network & Internet (Depending on the Android phone you are using).

Step 3: Go to Mobile Networks, or something similar

Step 4: Now, choose the network type or mode

Step 5: Click on the 5G network option (automatic).

How to change preferred network type to 5G on iPhone?

Once you are in an area with 5G coverage, follow the steps below to change the network type to 5G on your iPhone:

Step 1: Open settings. Scroll down to the Mobile Data option.

Note: To ensure your device is 5G compatible, you need to go to Mobile Data Options and make sure the ‘5G Auto’ option is selected in Voice & Data.

Turn on 5G Auto Option

Step 2: Choose Network Selection and click on the ‘Automatic’ network option.

Turn on Automatic option in Network Selection

Step 3: Turn the Airplane Mode on & off to refresh the network.

Conclusion

5G is the future. It is the next stage in network evolution that lets you say goodbye to slow speeds, especially when you are on the go. Simultaneously, the meaning of LTE, which is Long-Term Evolution, a 4G wireless network, is still widely used for many applications because of 5G’s restricted availability in some parts of the world.

Soon, 5G will expand its reach into new service areas, such as connecting the IoT and mission-critical communications, and transform the way we live, work, and communicate. It will also have a significant impact on diverse industries and society as a whole.

FAQs – What does “LTE” mean on my Phone

1. Should LTE be On or Off?

There is no need to turn LTE off unless you are in such an area where the LTE signal is not that good or you have no LTE available at all.

2. Should my phone be on 5G or LTE?

Just like LTE was the next step after the 3G network, the same way, 5G will eventually replace 4G LTE technology. If you have a 5G compatible phone and you have updated your old 4G sim card, always ensure your phone is 5G enabled. It will provide a faster, seamless, more responsive, and better user experience.

3. Will 5G be available worldwide?

Yes, just like previous versions, 5G will also be available in every corner of the world. However, as of now it is available in limited countries and cities like North and South America, some parts of Asia & Europe, and Australia. As of October 2023, 5G is available in 8,000+ cities in India.