5G networks will work with 4G — not outright replace it. The upshot is that 5G-capable cell phones will still use 4G technology.
Will 3G phones work on 5G network?
Major mobile carriers will be shutting down their 3G networks in 2022, rendering older phones useless. The retirement of the 3G network is to make room for more advanced networks, like 5G, which is much faster. Once the 3G network is shut down, 3G cell phones will not work.
How long will 4G phones work on 5G?
Eventually, in an estimated 15 to 20 years when there are few 4G LTE devices in use, most if not all of the spectrum will be used for 5G. Dynamic spectrum sharing lets carriers use the same spectrum band for both 4G and 5G.
Will old phones still work on 5G?
The new, faster 5G network means older phones that connect only on those providers' 3G network will no longer work. The phones will work but they won't work as phones, at least when you're away from your home WiFi network.Jan 5, 2022