Pakistan is continuing its preparations for nationwide 5G services, with the PTA reporting steady growth in compatible devices and local smartphone production. The latest figures show that millions of Pakistanis are now equipped with handsets capable of supporting next-generation mobile networks.
According to a document released by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority, PTA has recorded 3.81 million registered 5G-compatible devices across the country. The regulator said users will need handsets that support the officially assigned 5G spectrum bands to access the new mobile service.
The authority also noted that some compatible smartphones may require software updates before 5G features become available. Consumers are advised to ensure their devices are updated once commercial services expand further.
Local 5G Smartphone Manufacturing Expands
The PTA report highlighted significant progress in Pakistan’s local smartphone manufacturing industry. Several leading international brands are now assembling 5G smartphones within the country.
These brands include Samsung, Vivo, ZTE (Nubia), Oppo, Infinix, and Tecno. Local production is expected to improve the availability of affordable 5G devices for consumers.
Manufacturing numbers increased steadily throughout 2026. Production reached 32,581 units in January and 36,306 units in February. Output then increased to 76,315 units in March and 162,040 units in April. During May, factories produced 101,005 units, reflecting continued growth in domestic manufacturing.
According to official data, Pakistan had produced 961,326 locally assembled 5G smartphones by the end of May 2026.
Samsung led local production with 396,268 devices. Vivo followed with 248,508 units. Infinix and Tecno together produced 216,560 devices. Oppo assembled 96,900 units, while Nubia (ZTE) manufactured 3,090 units.
The regulator believes increasing local production will reduce costs and encourage wider adoption of 5G technology across Pakistan.
Average 5G Speeds Cross 100 Mbps
The latest PTA report also included network performance data collected during the early rollout phase.
According to the findings, average 5G download speeds reached 135.42 Mbps on Jazz, 133.65 Mbps on Ufone, and 108.66 Mbps on Zong.
Officials said these early performance figures already exceed average download speeds of 100 Mbps. Higher peak speeds are expected as network coverage expands and operators continue upgrading their infrastructure.
The authority added that nationwide quality monitoring is being carried out using advanced Rohde & Schwarz testing equipment. The monitoring system is designed to ensure telecom operators maintain service standards as the network grows.
Pakistan’s 5G Rollout Continues
Pakistan officially entered the 5G era after the spectrum auction held in March 2026.
During the auction, 480 MHz of spectrum was allocated from the 597.2 MHz offered. The auction generated approximately $510 million, equal to around Rs. 141 billion in government revenue.
Commercial 5G services were initially launched in major cities, including Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Lahore, and Karachi. Authorities plan to expand coverage to additional urban areas in phases.
In other news read more about WhatsApp Tests Live Green Dot Indicator for Real-Time User Activity
The latest figures released by the PTA indicate that Pakistan’s 5G ecosystem continues to develop through increased device availability, stronger local manufacturing, and expanding network infrastructure. Officials believe these developments will help improve nationwide digital connectivity as commercial 5G services continue to grow.
