iPhone 5G Now Accessible in Pakistan via Zong Beta Update
iPhone users in Pakistan can now experience 5G connectivity by installing the iOS 26.5 Public Beta on their devices, marking a significant development in the country’s telecom landscape.
Previously, it was expected that Apple would only enable iPhone 5G services in Pakistan by 2027. However, recent tests near Zong 5G infrastructure have revealed operational 5G speeds ranging from 244 Mbps to 290 Mbps for downloads, and approximately 76 Mbps for uploads on compatible iPhones using Zong SIM cards.
Zong stands as the sole Pakistani mobile network provider to have met Apple’s technical requirements to activate 5G on iPhones so far. Customers with compatible devices and subscriptions can access 5G in select areas equipped with Zong’s upgraded network towers. Other telecom operators such as Jazz and Ufone, which have launched 5G services for Android users, have yet to provide official iPhone 5G support.
To enable the 5G feature, iPhone users must join Apple’s Beta Software Program via the Safari browser, enable beta updates in device settings, and install iOS 26.5 Public Beta. After installation, users can check 5G coverage through the My Zong app, which offers a dedicated map of supported locations. Activation requires manually setting cellular data options to “5G Auto” or “5G On.” This process signals a novel way for users to access faster connectivity without waiting for a stable iOS release.
Industry insiders confirm that existing 4G data packages remain compatible with the new 5G infrastructure, eliminating the need for additional subscriptions or plan upgrades. Despite the encouraging initial rollout, 5G remains limited to specific urban centers as Zong continues to expand its nationwide infrastructure with more than 1,000 planned sites throughout 2026.
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority’s recent auction allocated 480 MHz of 5G spectrum across multiple frequency bands, with Zong, Jazz, and Ufone obtaining licenses for next-generation services. While Jazz has established 5G coverage at roughly 180 locations, including provincial capitals, it has not yet enabled iPhone 5G capability.
Attempts to activate iPhone 5G using alternate methods—such as using foreign SIM cards, jailbreaking, VPNs, or manual network configurations—have proven ineffective. Apple controls 5G activation through carrier-specific settings embedded in official iOS updates, meaning hardware alone does not guarantee access without formal carrier certification.
Apple has reportedly communicated to Pakistani authorities its plan to officially enable iPhone 5G services in 2027, aligning with market readiness and adoption rates. Heavy import taxes on smartphones, especially iPhones priced between Rs480,000 and Rs650,000, have somewhat limited Apple’s market penetration locally. Telecom experts suggest broader support for iPhone 5G could emerge earlier than expected as operators finalize technical certifications.
Consumers, however, may be hesitant to install beta software due to potential instability, which restricts widespread adoption. Industry observers anticipate a full rollout of iPhone 5G on Zong once beta testing concludes successfully, followed potentially by Jazz and Ufone later in 2026 or early 2027, potentially ushering in nationwide 5G access for iPhone users.
This development marks an important milestone in Pakistan’s move toward next-generation mobile services, promising enhanced internet speeds and connectivity options for Apple device owners.
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