Is your 5G signal slipping? Here's why and how to fix it

Ever found yourself waving your phone around, desperately trying to get a signal? You’re not alone.

According to recent research conducted by MoneySuperMarket, a third of mobile phone users have reported a noticeable decline in the reliability of their signal over the past 12 months.

And it's easy to see why: according to Ofcom’s 2024 Mobile Matters report, 78% of cellular network connections were to 4G networks with just 19.6% of connections being on 5G.

Why is the UK mobile signal getting worse?

The UK's mobile networks are struggling because they haven't been updated enough to keep up with the growing number of users and devices.

This outdated infrastructure can't handle the current demand, leading to poor signal quality.

Strict regulations make it difficult to build new mobile phone masts, which are essential for improving coverage and capacity and the UK government's restrictions on Huawei equipment in 5G networks has delayed the rollout of faster and more reliable 5G services by a few years, impacting overall network performance.

Alicia Hempstead, mobile expert at MoneySuperMarket, said: “With more people using mobile data than ever before, our networks are struggling to keep up.

“Even in urban areas, where one might expect superior service, the sheer density of users can overwhelm the networks, resulting in slower speeds and more frequent dropped calls. This decline in signal quality, as highlighted by the recent MoneySuperMarket research, is a significant issue affecting many users."

How to improve your mobile signal

While we wait for network improvements, there are several steps users can take to enhance their signal.

Switching to 4G can often provide a more stable connection, as these networks are more established and less congested compared to 5G.

To do this, simply go to your phone’s settings, navigate to the mobile network options, and select 4G or LTE. Additionally, exploring different mobile network providers might reveal better coverage options in your area.

Sometimes, a different mobile network might offer better coverage in your area. It’s worth checking out the options and seeing if another provider can give you a better signal.

It’s easy to find out your mobile operator’s coverage in your area – either have a look on their website or get in touch with them.

If you’re with EE, O2, Vodafone or Three, you can also use Ofcom’s mobile coverage checker.

Make sure your phone’s software is up to date. Manufacturers often release updates that can improve connectivity.

While updates primarily focus on security, performance, and new features, they can also include improvements to the phone's ability to connect to networks. For example, updates might optimize how your phone handles network connections, which can lead to better signal stability and fewer dropped calls.

Updating your phone's software is simple.

For Android devices, connect to Wi-Fi, open Settings, go to "System updates" under "About phone" or "System," and check for updates.

For iPhones, connect to Wi-Fi, open Settings, go to "General," and tap "Software Update." If an update is available, follow the on-screen instructions to download and install it.