How to activate 5G on your phone as Robi, GP launch services in selected areas
Only phones or devices included in the operators’ approved handset list can access 5G. A 4G SIM card is sufficient; no replacement is required
Bangladesh entered a new era of mobile connectivity on 1 September, as telecom operators Robi Axiata and Grameenphone (GP) commercially launched 5G services in select areas.
Bite-Sized: How to enable 5G on your phone
Robi became the first to switch on 5G, activating services in Dhaka's Fakirapul, Moghbazar Chowrasta, parts of Dhaka University, Khulshi in Chattogram, and Sagor Dighir Par in Sylhet.
Less than two hours later, Grameenphone announced through its official Facebook page that it had rolled out 5G across all eight divisional headquarters.
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Here is what users need to know to get connected:
What you need for 5G
A 5G-compatible device: Only phones or devices included in the operators' approved handset list can access 5G. A 4G SIM card is sufficient; no replacement is required.
Coverage zone: Users must be located within designated 5G areas. Robi's coverage is currently limited to parts of Dhaka, Chattogram, and Sylhet, while GP has expanded to all divisional cities, although availability may vary within them.
No extra cost: Both operators confirmed that 5G will run on existing data packs with no additional charges.
Software and settings: Devices must run the latest operating system. Network mode should be set to "5G Auto" or "5G On," and in some cases, a handset restart may be needed.
Step-by-step: Activating 5G
For Android users:
1. Confirm device compatibility with the operators' approved handset lists.
2. Install the latest software updates.
3. Go to Settings → Mobile Network → Network Mode → select 5G Auto or 5G On.
4. Restart the phone to apply changes.
5. A 5G icon near the signal bar confirms activation.
For iPhone users:
1. Ensure the iPhone model appears on the approved list.
2. Update to the latest version of iOS.
3. Navigate to Settings → Mobile Data → Mobile Data Options → Voice & Data → select 5G Auto (recommended) or 5G On. Under Data Mode, choose between Allow More Data on 5G or Standard.
4. Restart the device.
5. A 5G indicator will appear near the signal bar once active.
