New 5G Settings Options in iOS 15

Apple introduced several enhancements to cellular 5G connection management in iOS 15 to give users greater control over network performance, data consumption, and battery life. This article outlines the key 5G settings added or upgraded in the update, including the ability to prioritize 5G over weak Wi-Fi, support for 5G Standalone networks, and enhanced data mode configurations.

Prefer 5G Over Wi-Fi

One of the primary additions in iOS 15 is the operating system's ability to automatically prioritize 5G cellular connectivity over Wi-Fi. When connected to a Wi-Fi network that is slow, unresponsive, or captive, an iPhone running iOS 15 automatically routes traffic over a fast 5G connection instead. This feature is enabled automatically when users select the "Allow More Data on 5G" setting.

Enhanced "Allow More Data on 5G" Mode

Located under Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Options > Data Mode, the "Allow More Data on 5G" setting received expanded capabilities in iOS 15. When toggled on, it enables:

  • Automatic switching from slow or unsecure Wi-Fi networks to 5G.
  • High-definition FaceTime video calls over cellular.
  • High-definition streaming on Apple TV and Apple Music.
  • Over-the-air iOS updates directly over 5G.
  • Third-party app access to higher bandwidth for enhanced media quality.

5G Standalone (5G SA) Toggle

For compatible carriers (such as T-Mobile in the United States), iOS 15 introduced a dedicated toggle for 5G Standalone.

Traditional 5G (Non-Standalone, or NSA) relies on an underlying LTE network for signaling and connection setup. The 5G Standalone toggle allows the device to route all cellular operations—both signaling and data transmission—entirely through 5G infrastructure.

To manage this setting:

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Tap Cellular (or Mobile Data).
  3. Select Cellular Data Options > Voice & Data.
  4. Toggle 5G Standalone on or off.

Note: Apple includes a warning that enabling 5G Standalone on carriers with limited coverage may result in unexpected connection drops or degraded battery performance.

Refined Voice & Data Modes

iOS 15 also refined how the system manages the primary Voice & Data switch:

  • 5G Auto: Operates as Apple’s Smart Data mode. It drops back to LTE when 5G speeds do not provide a noticeably better experience, conserving battery life.
  • 5G On: Forces the device to use a 5G network whenever it is available, even if it negatively affects battery life.
  • LTE: Disables 5G entirely, forcing the device to operate strictly on 4G LTE bands.