In the modern mobile world, connectivity is everything. Whether you’re in a low-signal area or simply trying to conserve battery life, being able to force your device to use LTE (4G/5G) only can be a game-changer. Many users are unaware that you can still maintain LTE connectivity even while your phone is in Airplane Mode. This guide will show you how to force your smartphone to use LTE (4G/5G) only, even when in Airplane Mode, ensuring you stay connected with better speed and stability.
Understanding LTE and Airplane Mode
LTE (Long-Term Evolution):
- LTE is a 4G mobile communication standard that provides high-speed data for mobile phones and data terminals. The introduction of 5G is the next step in this evolution, offering even faster data speeds and more reliable connections.
Airplane Mode:
- Airplane Mode is a setting available on smartphones and other portable devices that, when activated, disables the device’s wireless signals. This includes mobile data, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and GPS. Airplane Mode is primarily used during flights to prevent interference with aircraft communication systems.
However, there are instances where you may want to keep LTE (4G/5G) active for data usage while blocking all other signals, such as calls or SMS. This is where forcing LTE only while in Airplane Mode becomes useful.
Why Force LTE Only in Airplane Mode?
- Improve Data Connectivity: Forcing LTE ensures your device stays connected to the fastest available data network, providing better speeds and reducing the chances of dropping to slower 3G or 2G networks.
- Save Battery Life: Staying on LTE or 5G can save battery compared to using multiple networks simultaneously. For example, if you’re using VoIP apps (like WhatsApp, Skype, etc.), forcing LTE can reduce the power consumption associated with switching between different networks.
- Stay Connected During Flights: If your flight offers in-flight mobile data services, forcing LTE ensures a more stable connection, allowing you to browse or communicate seamlessly.
- No Interruptions: By keeping your device in Airplane Mode but with LTE/4G/5G active, you can enjoy data services without being disturbed by calls or SMS, which might be useful in meetings, while driving, or in other focus-required situations.
How to Force LTE Only in Airplane Mode
Method 1: Using Android’s Hidden Settings (No Root Required)
Many Android devices have hidden settings that allow you to force LTE or 4G/5G even in Airplane Mode. Here’s how to access them:
- Enable Airplane Mode:
- Swipe down from the top of your screen to access the quick settings panel and tap the Airplane Mode icon to enable it. This will turn off all wireless connections, including mobile data.
- Access Phone Information:
- Open the phone dialer app.
- Dial
*#*#4636#*#*to access the hidden Phone Information menu. This code works on many Android devices, but it may not be available on all models.
- Force LTE:
- In the “Phone Information” menu, look for the “Set preferred network type” option.
- Select LTE Only or LTE/4G from the dropdown menu. This will force your device to stay on LTE.
- Enable Mobile Data:
- After selecting LTE Only, scroll down and find the option to enable mobile data. Toggle it on.
Your device will now maintain LTE/4G/5G connectivity even while Airplane Mode is activated.
Method 2: Using Third-Party Apps (No Root Required)
If the above method doesn’t work on your device, you can use third-party apps available on the Google Play Store to achieve the same result.
- Download an App:
- Search for apps like “Force LTE Only” or “4G LTE Only Mode” on the Google Play Store.
- Download and install the app on your device.
- Configure the App:
- Open the app and follow the on-screen instructions to access the network settings.
- Force your device to use LTE/4G/5G only.
- Activate Airplane Mode:
- Once the app is configured, activate Airplane Mode as usual. The app should ensure that LTE remains active.
- Enable Mobile Data:
- After enabling Airplane Mode, open the app again and turn on mobile data.
Method 3: Using Developer Options (No Root Required)
- Enable Developer Options:
- Go to your device’s Settings > About Phone.
- Tap on “Build Number” seven times to unlock Developer Options.
- Access Developer Options:
- Go back to the main settings menu, and you’ll now see Developer Options.
- Scroll down to find “Networking” options.
- Force LTE:
- Within Developer Options, look for a setting like “Preferred Network Type” or “Mobile Data Always Active.”
- Set the preferred network type to LTE Only or LTE/4G/5G.
- Enable Airplane Mode:
- Activate Airplane Mode via the quick settings menu.
- Enable Mobile Data:
- Return to Developer Options and ensure “Mobile Data Always Active” is enabled.
This method might not be available on all devices, but it offers another way to force LTE while in Airplane Mode.
Things to Consider
- Compatibility: Not all devices or Android versions support forcing LTE in Airplane Mode. The availability of this feature may depend on your phone’s manufacturer, model, and software version.
- Battery Impact: While forcing LTE can save battery by reducing the number of active radios, it might also increase battery usage if your device constantly searches for LTE signals in low-coverage areas.
- No Calls or SMS: Remember, while Airplane Mode is active, you won’t be able to make or receive calls or SMS unless you disable Airplane Mode. Forcing LTE only keeps data active.
Conclusion
Forcing LTE or 4G/5G while your device is in Airplane Mode can be a useful feature for those who need uninterrupted data connectivity without the distraction of calls or messages. Whether you’re on a flight, in a meeting, or just looking to extend your device’s battery life, this guide provides multiple methods to achieve this. Experiment with the techniques that work best for your device, and enjoy better connectivity with fewer interruptions.
If you found this guide helpful or have any questions, feel free to leave a comment below!
