5G in Pakistan is Here: Jazz and Zong Announce Compatible Phones for Next-Gen Speeds

The wait is finally over for millions of Pakistanis eagerly anticipating the next generation of mobile internet. Following the successful completion of a 5G spectrum auction, telecom giants Jazz and Zong have officially launched their 5G services in major cities across the country. This marks a monumental step in Pakistan's journey towards a faster, more connected digital future.

As the ultra-fast network begins to roll out, the most pressing question for users is whether their phone will work with 5G. To clear the confusion, both Jazz and Zong have released official information and lists of compatible smartphones.

Jazz and Zong Kick Off 5G Era

After securing their licenses from the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority, both Jazz and Zong have activated their 5G networks.

Zong's Big Bang Launch: Zong, a pioneer that conducted Pakistan's first 5G trial back in 2019, has commercially launched its services in over 16 cities. These include key urban centers like Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Karachi, Lahore, Peshawar, and Quetta. The company has committed to deploying and upgrading over 1,000 5G sites nationwide in 2026.

Jazz's Strategic Rollout: Jazz has activated its 5G services across approximately 180 sites, covering all provincial capitals and major hubs such as Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Lahore, Karachi, Peshawar, Quetta, Multan, and Faisalabad. Jazz was the only operator to secure spectrum in all key bands during the auction, which it says will allow for a powerful, multi-layered network with both deep coverage and high capacity.

For now, 5G coverage is concentrated in specific areas within these cities. Users can check the official coverage maps on the operators' websites to see if their location has a live 5G signal.

The Big Question: Is Your Smartphone 5G-Ready?

Having a 5G-compatible phone is essential to experience the incredible speeds, which can be up to 10 times faster than 4G. Both Jazz and Zong have provided guidance on which devices are certified for their networks.

Good News: You likely will not need a new SIM card. Jazz has confirmed that existing 4G-enabled SIMs will work with 5G, as long as you are in a coverage area and have a compatible device.

Official List of 5G Compatible Phones (Jazz and Zong Certified)

This list includes a mix of flagship, mid-range, and budget-friendly devices from leading global brands.

Apple iPhone

Apple's recent models are fully equipped for 5G. If you own one of these, you are ready to go.

iPhone 17 Series (Pro Max, Pro, etc.)
iPhone 16 and 15 Series
iPhone 14 Series (Pro, Pro Max)
iPhone 13 Series
iPhone 12 Series
iPhone SE (3rd generation and later)

Samsung

From premium flagships to the popular A-series, Samsung offers a wide array of 5G phones.

Galaxy S Series: S26, S25, S24, S23, S22, S21 (all variants including Ultra, Plus, FE)
Galaxy Z Series: Z Fold 7, Z Fold 5, Z Flip series
Galaxy A Series: A56 5G, A54 5G, A35 5G, A34 5G, A25 5G, A15 5G, and other recent 5G models
Galaxy Note Series: Note 20 and Note 20 Ultra 5G, Note 10 5G

Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO

Known for offering powerful specs at competitive prices, these brands have a strong 5G lineup.

Xiaomi and Mi Series: Xiaomi 15, 14, 13, 12 (all variants including T, Pro, Lite)
Redmi Note Series: Redmi Note 15, 14, 13, 12, 11 (Pro+, Pro 5G, 5G models)
POCO Series: POCO F7, F6, F5, X7, X6, X5, M7 Pro (Pro and GT models)

Vivo and iQOO

Vivo has a vast list of certified devices, especially on the Zong network.

V Series: V60, V40, V30, V29, V27, V25, V23 (5G, Lite, and Pro models)
X Series: X200, X100, X90, X80, X70 (Pro, Pro+ models)
Y Series: Y100 5G, Y78 5G, Y76 5G, Y72 5G, Y55 5G, and many more
iQOO Series: iQOO 12, 11, 10, 9, Z9, Z8, Z7, Neo9, Neo8, and others

Oppo and Realme

Both brands are popular in Pakistan and have numerous 5G-ready phones.

Oppo Reno Series: Reno 14 5G, Reno 11F 5G, Reno 8 Pro, and older 5G models
Oppo Find Series: Find X5 Pro, Find X2 Pro
Realme: Realme 15, 14, and various models identified by their model numbers

Infinix and Tecno

These brands offer some of the most affordable 5G phones in the market.

Infinix: Note 60 Pro, Note 60, Note 30 VIP, Zero 5G
Tecno: Camon 50 Premier 5G

ZTE

ZTE Nubia Neo 2, Nubia Focus Pro 5G, Nubia Focus 5G

Disclaimer: This is not an exhaustive list. 5G connectivity for some devices may require a software update from the manufacturer. Always check your phone's settings or the manufacturer's official specifications to confirm 5G band support.

5G Launch Summary: Jazz and Zong at a Glance

Operator	Coverage Cities	Initial Sites	2026 Target
Jazz	Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Lahore, Karachi, Peshawar, Quetta, Multan, Faisalabad	180 sites	Expanding nationwide
Zong	Over 16 cities including Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Karachi, Lahore, Peshawar, Quetta	Multiple sites	1,000+ sites nationwide

How to Check and Enable 5G on Your Phone

Step	Action
1	Check Compatibility: Go to Settings > Network and Internet > SIMs > Preferred Network Type. If you see 5G as an option, your phone is 5G capable.
2	Enable 5G: Select the 5G option as your preferred network type.
3	Update Software: Ensure your phone's operating system is updated to the latest version, as manufacturers often enable 5G support through software updates.
4	Be in a Coverage Zone: You must be in a location where Jazz or Zong has rolled out 5G services.

What's Next for 5G in Pakistan?

The launch of 5G is a landmark achievement, but the rollout will be gradual. Initially focused on urban centers, the network will expand over the coming months and years. The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority is also planning a separate 5G spectrum auction for Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan to extend next-generation connectivity to those regions.

This new era of connectivity promises to revolutionize everything from gaming and streaming to healthcare and industry, unlocking new economic opportunities and supporting Pakistan's digital transformation. As more users get their hands on compatible devices, the true impact of 5G will begin to unfold.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a new SIM card for 5G?

No. Jazz has confirmed that existing 4G-enabled SIMs will work with 5G as long as you are in a coverage area and have a compatible device.

Which cities have 5G coverage in Pakistan?

5G is currently available in major cities including Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Lahore, Karachi, Peshawar, Quetta, Multan, and Faisalabad, with coverage expanding to more areas in the coming months.

How can I check if my phone supports 5G?

Go to Settings > Network and Internet > SIMs > Preferred Network Type. If 5G appears as an option, your phone is 5G capable.

Will 5G work on my iPhone 12?

Yes, all iPhone 12 models and newer support 5G connectivity.

How fast is 5G compared to 4G?

5G can deliver speeds up to 10 times faster than 4G, enabling seamless streaming, gaming, and downloads.

Which operator has better 5G coverage?

Both Jazz and Zong have launched 5G services in major cities. Jazz has activated approximately 180 sites, while Zong has committed to deploying over 1,000 sites in 2026. Coverage may vary by location.

Final Thoughts

The arrival of 5G in Pakistan marks a transformative moment for the country's digital landscape. With Jazz and Zong leading the charge, millions of Pakistanis can now experience the power of next-generation connectivity. Whether you are a gamer, a professional working remotely, or simply someone who enjoys seamless streaming, 5G opens up a world of possibilities.

As the rollout expands and more devices become compatible, Pakistan is poised to take a significant leap forward in its journey toward a truly connected digital future. The era of 5G is here, and it is just the beginning.