How to Stop Using 5G on Your iPhone 13

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The iPhone 13 supports 5G networks, which offer faster download speeds and lower latency. However, 5G can consume more battery or may not be necessary in areas with weak coverage. If you want to stop using 5G and switch to 4G LTE (or 3G), Apple makes it easy to adjust your cellular settings. In this guide, we’ll show you step by step how to disable 5G on your iPhone 13.

Why You Might Want to Stop Using 5G

Switching off 5G can be beneficial if:

  • You want longer battery life

  • 5G coverage is weak or inconsistent in your area

  • You want to reduce data usage when unlimited plans aren’t available

4G LTE still provides fast speeds for most everyday tasks like browsing, streaming, and messaging.

Step 1: Open Settings on Your iPhone

  1. Unlock your iPhone 13.

  2. Tap the Settings app (gear icon) on your Home screen.

Step 2: Go to Cellular Settings

  1. In Settings, tap Cellular.

  2. This is where you manage your cellular plan and data settings.

Step 3: Access Cellular Data Options

  1. Tap Cellular Data Options under your active cellular plan.

  2. You’ll see options for Data Mode, Voice & Data, and Roaming.

Step 4: Choose Voice & Data Settings

  1. Tap Voice & Data.

  2. Here, you’ll see options for network types:

    • 5G On: Always use 5G when available

    • 5G Auto: Uses 5G when it doesn’t significantly affect battery life

    • LTE: Use 4G LTE only

Step 5: Select LTE Instead of 5G

  1. Tap LTE.

  2. Your iPhone will now stop using 5G and rely on 4G LTE.

  3. The 5G icon in the status bar should disappear.

Tip: LTE provides a stable connection and better battery performance in areas with poor 5G coverage.

Step 6: Optional – Enable 5G Auto

If you don’t want to fully disable 5G, you can use 5G Auto:

  • Go to Settings → Cellular → Cellular Data Options → Voice & Data

  • Tap 5G Auto

  • Your iPhone will switch between 5G and LTE automatically to optimize battery life and performance

Tips to Save Battery Without Disabling 5G

  • Enable Low Power Mode: Settings → Battery → Low Power Mode

  • Turn off Background App Refresh: Settings → General → Background App Refresh

  • Use Wi-Fi when available, which reduces cellular data usage

You don’t have to completely disable 5G to save battery. Smart settings can balance speed and efficiency.

FAQs About Using 5G on iPhone 13

1. Will turning off 5G affect calls or messages?
No, LTE supports calls and texts just like 5G.

2. Can I switch back to 5G anytime?
Yes, simply return to Settings → Cellular → Voice & Data → 5G On or 5G Auto.

3. Does LTE use less battery than 5G?
Yes, especially in areas with weak 5G coverage where the phone constantly searches for a signal.

4. Will turning off 5G affect data speed?
Yes, 5G is faster than LTE, but LTE is sufficient for most apps like browsing, streaming, and social media.

5. Can I disable 5G for specific apps only?
No, 5G is controlled at the device level, not per app. Use Wi-Fi for selective high-speed data usage.

Summary of Key Takeaways

  • iPhone 13 supports 5G, but you can switch to LTE for better battery life and stability.

  • Steps to stop using 5G:

    1. Settings → Cellular → Cellular Data Options

    2. Voice & Data → Select LTE

  • You can use 5G Auto to balance speed and battery life.

  • LTE still provides fast and reliable performance for everyday tasks.

  • Adjust other settings like Low Power Mode and Wi-Fi for extra battery savings.

Switching from 5G to LTE on your iPhone 13 is simple and gives you more control over battery usage and connectivity.

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