Digital Nasional Berhad (DNB) has announced that the Samsung Galaxy A73 5G is now compatible with Malaysia’s 5G network. This comes after Samsung had pushed a software update that enables local 5G support for the Galaxy S21 and S22 series.
Yes 5G is currently the first and only telco to offer 5G services in Malaysia. If you’re a subscriber on a Samsung Galaxy A73 5G, you’re advised to check for a software update under Settings > Software Update. With the latest update, you should be able to connect to the 5G network if you’re within DNB’s coverage areas.
So far there’s no update yet for other 5G-ready Galaxy A models such as the Galaxy A33 and A53. Even the foldable models such as the Galaxy Z Fold 3 and Galaxy Z Flip 3 are still not supported yet.
At the moment, DNB’s 5G network is available in selected areas of Kuala Lumpur, Cyberjaya and Putrajaya. They have recently expanded their network to cover selected areas in Johor Bahru and Selangor.
Although DNB’s 5G network is up and running since December 2021, not all 5G devices are supported. According to the single wholesale network, it is not their responsibility to certify or approve 5G devices. Certification of 5G devices is led by SIRIM with guidance from the MCMC. DNB does provide facilities for manufacturers to conduct tests such as initial static tests as well as a test route to conduct on-the-road drive tests so that they can configure their devices and update their firmware accordingly.
Most Chinese-branded smartphones such as Oppo, Realme, Xiaomi, Poco and Vivo are already able to connect to the network, however, brands such as Apple and Samsung may require a different process including a software update.
For example, when 4G was first rolled out in Malaysia, iPhone 5 users were required to download a carrier update before they can enable “LTE” in their phone settings. At the moment, Apple is only listing the big four telcos such as Celcom, Digi, Maxis and U Mobile under their “Wireless network provider support“. Since Yes 5G is not listed by Apple, you won’t be able to enjoy all the connectivity features on the iPhone including VoLTE, which is required for voice calls.
If you want to give Yes 5G a try, you can request a free SIM which offers free unlimited 5G data for 30 days.
Related reading
- Annuar Musa: Only TM and YTL have agreed to own an equity stake in Digital Nasional Berhad
- Annuar Musa says Selangor will be prioritised for 5G after making same promises for Melaka and Sarawak
- Yes extends free unlimited 5G data offer until further notice
- Why Samsung and iPhone devices can’t connect to 5G in Malaysia? Here’s DNB’s response
