As 5G networks become more widespread, Android users may want to ensure they are using the fastest and most efficient network available. While many phones automatically switch between 4G LTE and 5G depending on network availability and signal strength, you might prefer to force your Android device to stay connected to 5G only. Whether you’re looking for faster speeds, lower latency, or just experimenting with 5G, there are several ways to force your phone to prioritize the 5G network. Here are five methods to achieve this on your Android phone:
1. Use Developer Options to Force 5G Only
Android’s Developer Options menu provides advanced settings that aren’t typically available in the standard settings menu. To force your phone to use only 5G, you can modify the network settings here.
Steps:
- Enable Developer Options:
- Open your phone’s Settings app.
- Scroll down and select About phone.
- Tap Build number seven times to unlock Developer Options (you may need to enter your device’s PIN or password).
- Access Developer Options:
- Return to the Settings menu and tap on System.
- Tap Developer options.
- Modify the Network Settings:
- Scroll down to the Networking section.
- Look for an option that says Mobile data or Preferred network type.
- Select the option that forces your phone to use 5G Only or 5G NR (New Radio).
This will restrict your device from automatically switching between 5G, 4G, and 3G, ensuring it connects solely to the 5G network.
2. Use the Phone’s Dialer to Enter a Hidden Menu
Some Android phones allow users to access hidden menus via the dialer to change network settings. These menus provide granular control over network preferences.
Steps:
- Open your phone’s dialer (the app you use to make calls).
- Dial ##4636## and press the call button.
- This will open the Testing menu. Navigate to Phone information.
- In this menu, look for Set Preferred Network Type. Tap the dropdown and select the option that says 5G Only.
This method works on many Android devices but may not be available on all models.
3. Use Carrier-Specific Settings (if available)
Some mobile carriers offer custom apps or settings that allow you to adjust network preferences. For example, carriers like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile may provide tools for users to switch between different types of networks.
Steps:
- Open the carrier’s app (e.g., My Verizon, T-Mobile app).
- Navigate to the settings or network settings section.
- Look for an option that lets you choose your preferred network type. This may be called Network Mode or Preferred Network.
- Select 5G Only or 5G NR.
Not all carriers provide this feature, but it’s worth checking if your network has an app that allows you to make this change.
4. Use a Third-Party App
For users who want more control over their phone’s connectivity, third-party apps like Network Signal Guru or LTE Discovery can provide additional functionality to manipulate and monitor your network settings. These apps may offer an option to force your device to stay on the 5G network.
Steps:
- Download and install a third-party app such as Network Signal Guru from the Google Play Store.
- Open the app and navigate to the network settings or network modes.
- Select 5G Only as your preferred network type.
Third-party apps can provide useful features, such as network signal strength monitoring and manual switching between different network types, but note that they may require root access for full functionality.
5. Manually Toggle Airplane Mode to Reset Network
If you only need to force your phone to connect to 5G temporarily, toggling airplane mode on and off can help.
Steps:
- Open your phone’s Settings or swipe down the notification shade and tap the Airplane mode icon.
- Turn on Airplane mode for a few seconds.
- Turn off Airplane mode and let your phone reconnect to the network. Ideally, your device will automatically connect to the strongest available 5G signal.
While this method isn’t as precise as the others, it can help kickstart a connection to 5G, especially if you are in a location where 5G coverage is available.
Final Thoughts
Forcing your Android phone to stay on a 5G network can help you experience faster data speeds and lower latency, particularly when using data-heavy applications like streaming, gaming, or video calls. However, it’s important to note that 5G coverage is still expanding, and in some areas, it might not be as reliable as 4G. Additionally, forcing 5G might drain your battery faster, as 5G connectivity can be more power-hungry.
By following any of the methods above, you can ensure that your Android phone remains connected to the 5G network whenever possible. Just remember to switch back to automatic network selection if you experience issues with connectivity or battery life.