3G, E or GPRS question - what is the difference?

[Anonymous]

Hi,

I've had a Iphone 5c since launch day and I was really impressed with it, particularly it's signal strength and internet speed on 3G.  Since the IOS 7.0.3 update, I can't keep 3G, and drop to E or even GPRS.  I can't recall ever seeing this before the update or on my Iphone 4.  Have they split 3G into 3 groups of strength and that's why I'm seeing E or GPRS?  I'm also disappointed that I have a 4G ready phone, 4G ready sim card, but I couldn't get better than GPRS in Sheffield city centre!  I've read a few threads on here about data connection on the newer models, and just wondered if the introduction of seeing E, GPRS or 3G is just that, a new display thing?

[adamtemp64 · Accepted solution]

in ios7 gprs replaced the dot for 2g data gprs slowest E has always been there faster 2g and 3g is all iphones display for the diferent versions of 3g

explained in this thread http://community.o2.co.uk/t5/Pay-Monthly-and-Pay-Go/What-is-2G-3G-and-4G/m-p/286204#U286204

You also need to be on a 4g tariff to see 4g data only

[MI5]

You should get better than GPRS in the City Centre but you will only see 3G unless you have a 4G tariff. Try turning airplane mode on/off to see if you get a better connection.

[Anonymous]

Interesting reading thanks. Any ideas why I am dropping to E or GPRS when I never did on my IP4 or until the last couple of IOS updates? Appointment tonight with Apple Genius....

[Anonymous]

I do use the toggle, but seems to be hard work when i didn't have to do it before. I haven't got a 4G tariff. It was shocking, my friend had 4G and I was on GPRS, both iphone 5!

[Anonymous]

What does your service status say.

http://status.o2.co.uk

It says that Sheffield masts have an issue.

Check it with your postcode.

[MI5]

It could be a sim fault or a phone fault. These issues are always difficult....
The Apple genius will check the phone and reset your network settings which should eliminate the phone as a concern. After that you can get a free replacement sim from O2 to see it if helps further.

[Anonymous]

Service status is excellent home and work. It's when I drop to E or GPRS outside I know there must be a problem.

[Anonymous]

Thanks MI5, I've had a new sim, so hopefully the hardware check will give me some answers later. It's a shame as I was so impressed with the phone, but now it's frustrating!

[Anonymous]

Live results for Sheffield, Sheffield

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