Android users aren't alone, as AT&T's fake 5G logo now hits iPhones too

AT&T ignited a storm of controversy several weeks ago after it started rolling out fake 5G icons to select Android smartphones on its network. Now it would appear that the carrier is pushing its faux 5G network indicator to iPhones as well.

According to MacRumors, some users who have the iOS 12.2 beta two update on their iPhones are receiving the fake 5G logo.  The U.S. carrier subsequently confirmed the roll-out to the publication.

“Today, some iPhone and iPad users could start seeing our 5G Evolution indicator on their devices,” AT&T told the outlet. “The indicator simply helps customers know when they are in an area where the 5G Evolution experience may be available.”

It comes as a surprise of sorts, as Apple has usually been cagey for the most part about carrier interference on its devices (e.g. bloatware). So you have to wonder whether the Cupertino company approved the decision or if it’s something out of its control.

AT&T previously justified the switch to a 5G E logo by saying that it was using advanced 4G technologies (e.g. 256QAM, 4×4 MIMO) to bring improved speeds. But rival networks are using the same technologies, while still sticking to the 4G-related branding. At no point are phones with a 5G E logo connecting to a 5G network in the first place. And even if AT&T had a 5G network, these phones don’t have a 5G modem to actually connect to the service.

What do you think of the carrier’s fake 5G logo? Give us your thoughts in the comments section!

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