Grameenphone and Robi Launch 5G Services: How Users Can Access Them

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News Desk: The commercial journey of 5G services has officially begun in Bangladesh. On Monday (September 1), two of the country’s leading mobile operators—Grameenphone and Robi—formally launched the next-generation network, allowing customers to access 5G for the first time.

At 2:00 p.m. on Monday, Robi Axiata inaugurated its 5G service at a corporate office event in Dhaka. On the launch day, 5G coverage was activated at the MBA Building and Dhaka University area, Moghbazar intersection, Fakirapool-Paltan in Dhaka, Wasa Mor, Khulshi and Katalganj residential area in Panchlaish, Chattogram, and Sagardighir Par in Sylhet.

Robi announced that the service will gradually be rolled out across other regions of the country. However, due to the limited availability of 5G-enabled handsets in the market, coverage will initially remain restricted.

Speaking at the event, ICT Division Secretary Shis Haydar Chowdhury said that the launch of 5G marks a significant milestone in Bangladesh’s digital journey. “This will create new opportunities in education, healthcare, employment, and smart city development,” he noted.

Chairman of the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC), Major General (Retd.) Md. Emdadul Ul Bari, said: “With the launch of 5G, Bangladesh’s telecommunications sector has entered a new era. We expect operators to use this technology responsibly and deliver maximum benefits to the people.”

Robi’s Acting CEO and CFO, M. Riaz Rashid, stated: “This step will take Bangladesh’s digital economy to a new level. For the first time, our customers will experience the connectivity of the future firsthand.”

Just a few hours later, at 3:40 p.m., Grameenphone announced on its official Facebook page the nationwide launch of 5G across all divisional cities.

In a video message, CEO Yasir Azman said: “Grameenphone has always brought innovative solutions to its customers. Today, we are launching 5G from the number one network in the country, available in every divisional city. Let the doors of opportunity open for all through Grameenphone’s 5G network.”

How to Use 5G

Supported Devices:
To use 5G, customers must have a 5G-supported smartphone. Most new handset models currently available in the market support the network.

Coverage Area:
At present, 5G will only work in designated locations. Robi has launched limited coverage in parts of Dhaka, Chattogram, and Sylhet. Grameenphone has activated 5G in all divisional cities, although coverage may not be uniform across all areas.

No Additional Charges:
No SIM replacement is required, and no extra cost will be charged for 5G usage. Customers can enjoy 5G from their existing 4G data packages.

Software & Settings:
Phones must have the latest operating system installed. In network settings, users should enable “5G Auto” or “5G On.” Restarting the device may be necessary.

Steps for Activating on Android

1. Confirm that your phone model is on the approved list.

2. Update your device to the latest software version.

3. Go to Settings → Mobile Network → Network Mode and select 5G Auto or 5G On.

4. Restart the device to apply changes.

5. Once the 5G icon appears beside the signal bar, the service is active.

Steps for Activating on iPhone

1. Verify that your model is on the approved list.

2. Update to the latest iOS version.

3. Go to Settings → Mobile Data → Mobile Data Options → Voice & Data and select 5G Auto or 5G On.

4. Under Data Mode, choose Allow More Data on 5G or Standard.

5. Restart the device. When the 5G icon appears beside the signal bar, the service is enabled.