📶 How to Upgrade 4G SIM to 5G Without Porting – Step-by-Step Guide
Updated: July 2025 | Category: Mobile Tips | Reading Time: 7 mins
📲 Why This Guide Matters?
If you recently purchased a 5G smartphone, you may be wondering – “Do I need a new SIM card?” or “Should I port to another network for 5G?” Many mobile users are misinformed and unnecessarily port their SIM just to access 5G. This guide will show you how to upgrade your SIM without changing your number or network, saving you time and effort.
📌 What’s the Difference Between 4G SIM and 5G SIM?
Let’s keep it simple:
- 👉 4G SIM cards are designed for LTE networks (4G)
- 👉 Most 4G SIMs sold after 2017 are 5G-compatible
- 👉 A true 5G SIM might provide better performance & authentication, but the difference is minor for regular users
Bottom Line: You don’t need to port to another network to use 5G. If your SIM is old, simply upgrade it — same number, same company.
🔍 How to Check If Your 4G SIM Supports 5G?
✅ Method 1: Use Telecom App
- Jio: Open MyJio app → 5G Banner → Check Eligibility
- Airtel: Open Airtel Thanks app → Tap “Check 5G Availability”
- Vi: Open Vi App → Navigate to 5G Offers/Availability
✅ Method 2: SMS Check
- Send “5G” to 199
- You’ll receive a message confirming your SIM and device status
✅ Method 3: Visit the Nearest SIM Store
Ask a staff member to scan your SIM. They’ll tell you if an upgrade is needed.
🛠️ How to Upgrade 4G SIM to 5G Without Porting
Here’s the process for all major Indian networks:
🔄 Step-by-Step (Jio / Airtel / Vi)
- 📍 Visit your nearest official telecom store
- 🪪 Carry your Aadhaar card for identity verification
- 🗣 Ask for a SIM replacement (not port)
- 📱 Insert new SIM → Wait 4–12 hours for activation
✅ Your number stays the same — and now it’s 5G-ready!
📶 How to Turn On 5G in Your Phone?
📱 For Android:
- Go to Settings → Mobile Network
- Tap on SIM → Preferred Network Type
- Select: 5G/4G/3G/2G Auto
📱 For iPhone:
- Go to Settings → Cellular → Voice & Data
- Choose: 5G Auto or 5G On
⚠️ Note: Make sure your iOS/Android is up-to-date!
🚀 How to Know If You’re Using 5G Now?
- 📶 You’ll see a 5G icon next to your network bar
- Use Fast.com or Speedtest.net to check speed
- Speeds above 200–1000 Mbps usually mean 5G
Not seeing 5G? You may be in a non-5G zone, or your phone might need a software update.
⚠️ Why You Should NOT Port Just for 5G
- ⏳ Porting takes 4–7 days → Network loss possible
- 🔁 UPI, bank OTPs may get delayed
- 📉 You lose existing offers or bonus data
- 😓 Waste of effort when SIM upgrade is enough
💡 Tip: Port only if your network doesn’t provide 5G at all in your area.
📍 Cities with 5G Coverage in India (2025)
- ✔️ Delhi
- ✔️ Mumbai
- ✔️ Bengaluru
- ✔️ Pune
- ✔️ Lucknow
- ✔️ Patna, Ranchi, Hyderabad, Chennai...
Visit your telecom provider's site for latest city-wise rollout map.
📋 Quick Checklist Before Using 5G
- 📱 5G phone with updated software
- 📍 5G active area (check coverage)
- 💳 Valid 5G-enabled SIM (upgraded)
- ⚙️ 5G turned ON in settings
💬 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
❓1. Is 4G SIM compatible with 5G?
Yes, most 4G SIMs after 2017 support 5G. Only very old SIMs need to be replaced (not ported).
❓2. Is SIM upgrade free?
In most cases, SIM replacement is free or costs ₹10–₹25 at official stores.
❓3. Can I get 5G by porting to Jio or Airtel?
You can, but it’s not necessary. If your current provider offers 5G, just upgrade the SIM.
❓4. Will my number or contacts change?
No. SIM upgrade keeps your number and data the same. Porting is what changes your network.
❓5. I did everything but still no 5G?
Make sure 5G is available in your area and your phone model supports it. Some phones need a software update to enable 5G.
📚 Read Also
- 🚫 Are Game Booster Apps Slowing Down Your Phone?
- 📱 Vivo X200 FE vs Oppo Reno 14 Pro – Full Specs & Review
👍 Hope this guide helped! If you have questions, comment below or visit your nearest mobile store – and avoid the SIM porting myth!
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