iPhone users in Pakistan are unlikely to access 5G services before 2027, after Apple reportedly declined to activate the feature for its devices in the country for now, 24NewsHD TV reported on Friday.
According to media reports, officials from Pakistan’s Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication said the US tech giant informed authorities that it would review the size and commercial viability of the Pakistani market in 2027 before enabling 5G support for iPhone users.
Industry experts said heavy taxes on imported mobile phones, particularly iPhones, have significantly reduced Apple’s market share in Pakistan, which is believed to be one of the main reasons behind the delay in providing full service support.
In contrast, 5G services are already available on smartphones manufactured by Samsung Electronics.
Pakistan moved ahead with its 5G plans earlier this year after the government completed a $507 million spectrum auction in March aimed at improving internet speed and connectivity across the country.
A total of 480 megahertz (MHz) of spectrum was sold during the auction process.
Telecom industry officials said all mobile operators have already placed orders for the equipment required to launch 5G services, while trial operations have also started in selected areas.
However, despite the broader rollout of next-generation mobile services, iPhone users in Pakistan may have to wait more than another year before they can fully benefit from the technology.