MTN Uganda recently launched countrywide 4G coverage in Uganda, extending the latest broadband technology to all major towns. This latest investment for the first time now takes the MTN 4G experience beyond Kampala, across all corners of Uganda, to enable high speed internet access for its customers. Here’s what you need to know about the recently launched MTN 4G/LTE internet.
What is 4G/LTE?
4G is the 4th generation of mobile network technology, giving you faster speeds and an overall better internet experience. You’ll definitely notice a difference when you’re gaming, streaming, downloading and surfing. It’s fast.
What is the difference between 3G and 4G?
In a word – speed. MTN 4G provides lightning fast mobile internet speeds (over 100Mbps). Impressive right? MTN 4G is available in nationwide.
4G is a data-only network. That means that when you make or receive a call, your service will automatically switch from 4G onto the MTN 3G network. When you make or receive a call, you’ll notice the ‘4G’ or ‘LTE’ symbol on your screen will switch to a 3G symbol. When you finish your call, your service will reconnect back onto 4G where available.
What is difference between the names LTE and 4G?
There is absolutely no difference. 4G also often referred to as LTE, stands for ‘Long Term Evolution’. Different handset manufacturers refer to both terms so on an iPhone you will see ‘LTE’ on the screen (when in 4G coverage) and in your menu settings, where as on Android devices you could have both ‘4G’ and ‘LTE’ on your screen and in menu settings.
Where is the MTN 4G network?
The MTN 4G network is available in Kampala and major towns across Uganda in areas including Mbarara, Arua, Fort Portal, Gulu, Jinja, Kasese, Moroto, Kabale, Lira, Masaka, and Mbale.
How will I know where 4G is?
When you’re getting 4G coverage on your 4G-ready phone, you’ll see either ‘4G’ or ‘LTE’ appear next to the signal bars at the top of your screen.
Will my device always stay connected to 4G?
You might notice that your device is switching between 3G and 4G coverage as you move around – that’s because it will automatically select the strongest signal for the area you’re in. As our network continues to grow throughout the year, you will notice that your device will spend more and more time on 4G over 3G.
If you are using a dongle, MiFi or router, while connected to a laptop or computer, the device web interface will display either 4G or 3G.
MTN launched 4G in 2013, what is different with the launch then and now?
When we launched 4G in 2013, it was very new technology and there was a lot to learn. For example, our customers using 4G then could not automatically switch between the technology and the older 3G. This meant that in areas, where MTN did not have 4G coverage, customers could not use the service. MTN has since worked with our technology partners to fix these challenges.
In addition, the 4G coverage this time covers a much wider area across Uganda. MTN has extended the 4G network to more than 75 sites, covering major towns across the country.
MTN has also invested significantly in capacity and can therefore accommodate larger numbers of customers simultaneously using the network at any one time.
Which devices in MTN’s range are 4G-ready?
MTN has a wide range of affordable devices that suit different customer segments. Please check our July device magazine for the amazing 4G offers.
Can I turn 4G off?
You can deactivate 4G in your phone, dongle/MiFi or tablet’s menu settings. This lets you easily turn it off and on when you want. However, if you choose this option and update your phone or tablet’s software in the future, 4G may default back ‘on’, so watch out for that.
Do I need a new SIM card?
You will need a new 4G SIM card. You can easily swap your old SIM card for a 4G SIM card at any MTN Service Centre.
Does 4G cost extra?
Not necessarily. Let us say you have been taking 30 minutes to download a movie, with 4G, you could get it within 5 minutes. The idea is that with 4G you get to do more in much less time.
You can manage and keep track of your usage using the MTN Smart app. You can download the MTN app via the Android/Apple app store.