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O2 5G Not Working on Google Pixel

Last updated: June 2026 · O2 · Google Pixel

O2 5G requires a 5G-capable Google Pixel, a plan with 5G included, and 5G coverage at your location. O2 5G in 100+ towns. SA 5G launching in major cities. This guide helps you check all three and fix 5G not showing on O2.

In this guide
  1. 5G requirements
  2. Step-by-step fix
  3. Common causes
  4. Frequently asked questions

Enabling O2 5G on Google Pixel

Confirm your Google Pixel supports 5G
Not all Google Pixel models include a 5G modem. Check your device's official spec sheet for '5G NR' or 'Sub-6GHz 5G'. If 5G is absent from the spec, the device cannot connect to O2 5G.
Check your O2 plan includes 5G
Log into the O2 app and verify your current plan includes 5G access. {c_5g}. Some legacy plans require an upgrade to access 5G.
Verify 5G coverage at your location
Use O2's coverage map to confirm 5G is available at your exact location. O2 5G is available in major towns — rural areas may only have 4G.
Set preferred network type to 5G
Go to Settings → Network & internet → SIMs → Access Point Names → Preferred network type → select 5G/4G/3G/2G Auto. If this option is missing, your device or plan may not support 5G.
Remove SIM and reinsert
Power off. Remove and reinsert the SIM. Power on. This re-negotiates network capability with O2 and can restore 5G after a registration glitch.
Disable 5G temporarily then re-enable
Set network type to 4G only, wait 30 seconds, then set back to 5G Auto. This forces a fresh 5G cell search on O2's network.
Contact O2 if 5G never appears
If your device, plan and location all support 5G but it never shows, call 202 (free from O2). O2 may need to update your SIM's 5G provisioning record.

Common Causes of This Issue on O2

CauseLikelihoodFix
Device not 5G capableHighCheck device specs
Plan excludes 5GHighUpgrade plan
No 5G coverageMediumCheck coverage map

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my Google Pixel not show 5G on O2?

5G requires three things to align: a 5G-capable device, a O2 plan that includes 5G, and 5G coverage at your location. If any one of these is missing, your Google Pixel will show 4G LTE instead. Check all three before concluding 5G is broken.

Is O2 5G free?

O2 5G in 100+ towns. SA 5G launching in major cities. Check your specific plan in the O2 app to confirm whether 5G is included. Some older O2 plans predate 5G and may need upgrading.

What 5G speed can I expect on O2?

Typical O2 5G speeds range from 100 Mbps to 500+ Mbps depending on network load, distance from the 5G mast, and whether you are on Sub-6GHz or mmWave 5G. O2 5G in 100+ towns. SA 5G launching in major cities.

Still having trouble? Contact O2 support on 202 (free from O2) or visit our contact page for further help.