After months of uncertainty around Apple’s 5G compatibility in Pakistan, some iPhone users have finally started accessing next-generation mobile services — though only under limited conditions for now.

Reports emerging this week suggest that iPhone users connected to Zong’s network can now enable 5G services after installing Apple’s latest iOS 26.5 Public Beta update, marking what could be Pakistan’s first practical breakthrough for 5G support on Apple devices.

The development comes amid Pakistan’s broader push toward commercial 5G deployment following the country’s spectrum auction earlier this year, which raised more than $500 million and paved the way for telecom operators to begin rolling out services nationwide.

For months, uncertainty surrounded whether Apple would officially enable 5G carrier settings for Pakistani networks. Earlier reports had suggested iPhone users may have to wait until 2027 for full support, despite Android devices already gaining access to trial networks.

However, recent testing by users and tech publications indicates that at least some iPhones are now connecting to Zong’s 5G network through beta software updates. The feature remains limited, with compatibility reportedly varying across device models, carrier settings and coverage areas.

The rollout also highlights Apple’s tightly controlled carrier certification process. Unlike many Android manufacturers, Apple typically enables 5G access country-by-country through software-based carrier bundles that require technical approval and network testing before public activation.

Pakistan’s telecom sector has accelerated preparations for nationwide 5G expansion in recent months. Operators including Jazz and Zong have already begun testing compatible devices and infrastructure ahead of wider commercial availability expected later this year.

While the current iPhone support appears experimental rather than fully commercial, the latest breakthrough signals that Apple users in Pakistan may no longer remain excluded from the country’s transition to ultra-fast mobile connectivity.