Apple rolls out 5G support for iPhone 14, other models in India

• Image Credit: Google

• Dec 14, 2022 | Dhupali Das

Digital Desk: Apple has begun rolling out the iOS 16.2 updates for eligible iPhone users, a long-awaited move for its 5G cellular support.

With the latest iOS 16.2, Apple announced that 5G cellular connectivity has been enabled for the new iPhone 14, iPhone 13, iPhone SE, and iPhone 12 lineups in India, which users may access via Airtel and Jio 5G services.

Since the launch of 5G services on October 1, telecom operators such as Bharti Airtel and Reliance Jio have expanded their 5G coverage to 50 Indian cities. The majority of Android phone owners have begun receiving updates from their original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), while only iOS 16.2 beta users have access to the 5G network on Apple devices.

The Cupertino giant names Airtel and Reliance Jio as its "carrier partners" in India. It was previously disclosed that Apple is collaborating with carrier partners in India to provide iPhone users with the finest 5G experience.

Apart from 5G cellular support, iOS 16.2 introduces new features such as Apple Music Sing, a new home app architecture, disabled wallpaper and notifications for always-on displays, a lock screen sleep widget, AirTag alerts, Siri silent responses, and many more.

Last month, Apple enabled 5G in India under the iOS 16 Beta software program for a select few iPhone users in the country on a trial basis. The 5G network was only available to a small group of customers with Airtel and Reliance Jio connections. The company advised users to update to iOS 16.2 on their devices.

According to Apple, 5G will enable "super-fast downloads and uploads, improved streaming, and real-time connectivity to let consumers remain connected, share, and enjoy content."

With the launch of iOS 16.2, Apple iPhone 5G network support is now available in more than 70 nations across the globe.

According to a recent report by India's National Association of Software and Services Companies (NASSCOM) and Arthur D. Little, 5G telecom networks are expected to account for close to 2% of India's GDP by 2030. The report anticipates that the 5G sector will generate revenues of nearly $180 billion by 2030.