Nowadays, 4G cellular networks have become the standard for data connection via mobile devices. Their debut dates back to the launch on the market of the Samsung Galaxy S3. This is why some Samsung S3s may find it difficult to automatically connect to a 4G network. In order to access a 4G cellular network, you must have a SIM card enabled for LTE connections and a tariff plan that supports the 4G standard. Sometimes the problem can also lie in the fact that, in the settings of your Samsung S3, the 4G connection is not enabled.
Steps
Part 1 of 2: Verify the Service
Step 1. Make sure that the area you are in has 4G coverage on the cellular network
This new standard for cellular data connection is spreading very quickly, but is not yet available in all areas. If your Samsung S3 is properly configured to access a 4G network, but is unable to do so, it is very likely that there is no 4G signal available.
- Generally, S3 smartphones should automatically switch to 4G connection the moment they detect the signal.
- The power of the 4G network often tends to decrease when inside a building.
Step 2. Check your Samsung S3 and the carrier
Not all S3 models can connect to a 4G cellular network. For example, the first T-Mobile branded S3 models (SGH-T999), which were released on the market before the telephone operator migrated its network to 4G LTE standard, do not support this connection standard. All other Samsung S3 devices should be able to connect to modern LTE networks.
Step 3. Check your subscription rate plan
If your contract with the carrier does not provide for 4G connectivity (free or at an additional cost), you may not be able to connect to the 4G network. If you have recently updated your phone plan, subscribing to one that supports 4G connection, it is very likely that you will need to replace your S3's SIM card.
- If you purchased an S3 by entering into a binding contract with a carrier, you will not be able to use the device with SIM cards from other operators, unless you request that they be unlocked. For example, you cannot use a Vodafone SIM card in a TIM-branded Samsung S3, unless the device has already been unlocked by the operator who distributed it.
- If you are performing the initial configuration of a Samsung S3 after inserting a new SIM card, you may need to activate the service on your phone plan by contacting your carrier directly to ensure full support for the 4G network. Contact your carrier's customer service to request activation.
Part 2 of 2: Check the Smartphone Settings
Step 1. Launch the "Settings" application
Your device should already be able to connect to 4G networks by the time it detects the signal, but to be sure you can check the configuration settings.
Note: This procedure does not work on Verizon branded Samsung S3s. These devices are configured to automatically connect to Verizon's 4G network and this setting cannot be changed. If your device is unable to access Verizon's 4G network despite coverage, please contact customer service for assistance with the issue
Step 2. Select the "Other Settings" or "Other" menu item
It is located in the "Wireless & Networks" section of the "Settings" menu.
Step 3. Choose the "Mobile Networks" option
This section lists the configuration settings related to the cellular network.
Step 4. Select the "Network Mode" item
The types of cellular networks your S3 is able to connect to will be displayed.
Step 5. Choose the option "LTE / CDMA", "LTE / CDMA / EVDO", or "LTE auto"
Each of these modes allows your S3 to connect to your carrier's LTE network.
