ISLAMABAD

Apple is expected to enable 5G services for iPhone users in Pakistan in 2027, even as the country accelerates preparations for a nationwide 5G rollout next year, according to officials familiar with the matter.

Officials from the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication Pakistan said Apple has informed Pakistani authorities that the company is still evaluating the local market before activating 5G support for iPhones in the country.

While several Android devices are already compatible with Pakistan’s emerging 5G networks, iPhone users may have to wait longer for official support despite ongoing infrastructure deployment by telecom operators.

Pakistan held its largest-ever 5G spectrum auction earlier this year, generating more than $500 million and paving the way for commercial rollout of next-generation mobile services. Telecom companies including Jazz, Ufone, and Zong have already begun expanding 5G-ready infrastructure and testing sites across major cities.

Industry experts say Apple’s delayed activation could be linked to Pakistan’s relatively smaller iPhone market, which has been affected by high import duties and PTA taxes on premium smartphones.

Despite the delay, analysts believe Apple’s eventual entry into Pakistan’s 5G ecosystem will significantly boost adoption of high-speed mobile services among premium smartphone users.