The latest iPhone 12 comes with 5G network connectivity, offering faster download and upload speeds. However, some users may not find 5G network available in their area, or they may face connectivity issues due to lack of 5G infrastructure. In such scenarios, users may want to switch their iPhone 12 to 4G network to ensure stable connectivity. In this blog, we will discuss the challenge of changing 5G to 4G on iPhone 12 and 4 methods with detailed steps to perform this conversion. We will also discuss the reasons why this may fail and offer some fixes.
Video Tutorial:
The Challenge of Changing 5G to 4G on iPhone 12
With the launch of 5G network, Apple has introduced a new setting in iPhone 12 that allows users to switch between 5G and other networks, including 4G. However, the process of changing 5G to 4G on iPhone 12 is not straightforward, and users may face challenges in performing this conversion. Some of the challenges include:
1. Lack of 4G coverage: Some users may not see 4G network in their area or have low coverage, making it difficult to switch from 5G.
2. Disabled 4G setting: Sometimes, the 4G setting may be disabled or hidden in the iPhone 12 settings, making it difficult to switch between 5G and 4G.
3. Technical issues: In rare cases, technical issues with the iPhone 12 software or hardware may prevent users from switching between 5G and 4G.
To overcome these challenges, we have outlined 4 methods with detailed steps that users can follow to switch from 5G to 4G on their iPhone 12.
Method 1: Using iPhone 12 Settings
Description: This method involves changing the network settings within the iPhone 12 settings interface to switch from 5G to 4G.
1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone 12.
2. Tap on Cellular.
3. Tap on Cellular Data Options.
4. Select Voice & Data.
5. Select LTE to use 4G network.
Pros: This method is simple and can be done quickly, without any technical expertise required.
Cons: This method may not work if the 4G setting is not available in Voice & Data options.
Method 2: Using Shortcuts App
Description: This method involves using the Shortcuts app to create a shortcut that switches from 5G to 4G.
1. Download and open the Shortcuts app from the App Store.
2. Tap on the + icon to create a new shortcut.
3. Tap on Add Action.
4. Search for ‘Cellular Data Options’ and select it.
5. Tap on ‘Voice & Data’.
6. Select ‘LTE’.
7. Name your shortcut and tap Add to Home Screen.
8. Tap Add in the top right corner.
Pros: This method offers a shortcut that can be accessed quickly from the home screen for easy switching between 5G and 4G.
Cons: This method requires you to download the Shortcuts app and create a shortcut.
Method 3: Using Dual SIM Feature
Description: This method involves using the dual SIM feature in iPhone 12 to switch from 5G to 4G.
1. Go to Settings, then Cellular.
2. Tap on Add Cellular Plan.
3. Scan the QR code or enter the details of the second carrier plan with 4G.
4. Go back to Settings and tap on Cellular.
5. Tap on Cellular Data Options.
6. Tap on Secondary SIM and select LTE.
Pros: This method allows you to have two different carrier plans, one with 5G and the other with 4G, for easy switching between networks.
Cons: This method requires a second carrier plan with 4G, which may not be feasible for some users.
Method 4: Using Apple Watch
Description: This method involves using an Apple Watch to switch from 5G to 4G on iPhone 12.
1. Open the Watch app on your iPhone 12.
2. Tap on My Watch.
3. Tap on Cellular.
4. Tap on the carrier plan with 4G.
5. Turn off the Wi-Fi option to prevent the watch from using Wi-Fi for data.
6. Go back to the Watch app and exit.
7. Turn on the airplane mode on your iPhone 12 for a few seconds.
8. Turn off the airplane mode.
Pros: This method is useful in cases where the 4G setting is not visible in the iPhone 12 settings.
Cons: This method requires an Apple Watch, making it an expensive solution.
Why Changing 5G to 4G May Fail
There are several reasons why changing 5G to 4G on iPhone 12 may fail:
1. Device incompatibility: Sometimes, the iPhone 12 may not be compatible with the carrier’s 4G network, preventing users from switching from 5G.
2. Network coverage: In areas with limited 4G network coverage, users may not be able to access 4G network even if they switch from 5G.
3. Disabled 4G setting: If the 4G setting is disabled or hidden in the iPhone 12 settings, users may not be able to switch from 5G.
To fix these issues, users can reach out to their carrier support or seek professional help to diagnose the problem.
FAQs
Q1. Can I switch between 5G and 4G during a call?
A1. Yes, you can switch between 5G and 4G even if you are on a call. However, switching between networks may interrupt your call for a few seconds.
Q2. Will switching to 4G save battery life?
A2. Yes, switching to 4G from 5G can save battery life on iPhone 12, as 5G consumes more power due to its faster speed.
Q3. What if I don’t see the 4G option in Voice & Data options?
A3. If you don’t see the 4G option in Voice & Data options, it means that your carrier plan does not support 4G network. You can switch to a carrier plan with 4G to enable this option.
Q4. Can I switch back to 5G from 4G?
A4. Yes, you can switch back to 5G from 4G by following the same steps mentioned in each method.
Q5. Will switching to 4G affect my download and upload speeds?
A5. Yes, switching to 4G from 5G may affect your download and upload speeds, as 4G is slower compared to 5G. However, if you are in an area with weak 5G coverage, switching to 4G may provide better connectivity.
Q6. Can I switch to 3G instead of 4G?
A6. Yes, you can switch to 3G by selecting 3G option in Voice & Data options. However, note that 3G is much slower compared to 4G and 5G, and may not provide optimal connectivity.
Conclusion
Switching from 5G to 4G on iPhone 12 may seem challenging, but with the methods described in this blog, users can easily perform this conversion. Whether it’s using the iPhone 12 settings, creating a shortcut with the Shortcuts app, using dual SIM feature, or an Apple Watch, users have several options to switch between 5G and 4G. By understanding the challenges and reasons why this may fail, users can also seek professional help or carrier support to fix any issues. With proper guidance and technical expertise, switching from 5G to 4G on iPhone 12 can be done with ease.