apples It jumped to the 5G network in late 2020, starting with the iPhone 12, and later iPhone models have been released since then with support for the 5th generation network. However, not all iPhones have the same 5G support. 5G bands can be divided into three categories: sub-6GHz (frequency band 1), mmWave (frequency band 2) and 5G C band. The former has a longer range but slower speeds, unlike 4G, while mmWave is known to be much faster, but uses shorter waves that can be intercepted.
On the other hand, the C-band balances both by offering higher speed and better range. All four iPhone 12 series and all four iPhone 13 series models have a 5G modem. In addition, the iPhone SE (3rd generation) launched in March 2022 also has 5G support, making it the cheapest 5G networks. The iPhone 11 is the only model officially sold by Apple that does not have 5G support.
Just because a device is 5G compatible doesn’t mean it will work on all 5G frequencies, and so do iPhones. While most countries with 5G networks use the 6GHz standard, others, such as the US and Japan, use sub-6GHz and mmWave. Likewise, not all iPhones support both types of 5G networks. According to Apple’s mobile page, all iPhone 12 and iPhone 13 models support 5G networks below 6GHz. iPhone SE (3rd generation) also supports 6 GHz networks.
iPhone SE (3rd generation) does not support mmWave
However, the number of tracks supported depends on the model sold in a particular region. For example, US models support more groups than those sold in China. Moving to mmWave which uses the n258, n260 and n261 bands, the conversation takes another turn. Only the US iPhone 12 and iPhone 13 series models support mmWave. This means that anyone who buys these phones in other countries, including phones with mmWave network, will not be able to connect to mmWave networks. Also, iPhone SE (3rd generation) does not support mmWave in any region, including the US.
Basically, anyone looking to get iPhone 5G support will be fine with any model released in 2020 except the discontinued iPhone SE (2nd generation). However, if you want faster models that are compatible with the mmWave network, you should buy American models from the iPhone 12 or iPhone 13 series. It’s obvious why. apples No mmWave support added to iPhone SE. Its introduction is expensive and that would increase the price of the iPhone SE (3rd generation), probably the cheapest model. On the other hand, the Pixel 6a, the Android equivalent of Android SE, has a mmWave compatible version sold by Verizon. Though it costs an extra $50 for the unlocked version, which only supports 6GHz networks.
John Cameron is a journalist at The Nation View specializing in world news and current events, particularly in international politics and diplomacy. With expertise in international relations, he covers a range of topics including conflicts, politics and economic trends.