Pakistan’s transition toward next generation connectivity has gained momentum as telecom operators begin activating 5G infrastructure following the licensing phase. Jazz and Zong have initiated deployment of 5G sites, bringing early stage coverage to key urban areas and marking a significant step in the country’s digital infrastructure development.
According to available details, Jazz has activated 177 5G sites while Zong has brought around 150 sites online, taking the combined total to over 300 operational locations. The rollout has initially focused on Islamabad, where areas such as the Red Zone, Blue Area, and the Parliament vicinity are now receiving 5G coverage. This phased deployment strategy reflects a targeted approach aimed at testing network performance and ensuring stability in high priority zones before expanding to wider regions.
At present, the 5G network is accessible on 2,254 devices across 103 brands, indicating gradual ecosystem readiness. However, some widely used smartphone manufacturers including Apple and Samsung have yet to release the necessary software updates required to enable 5G compatibility on certain devices in Pakistan. This limitation has temporarily restricted access for a segment of users, despite the availability of network infrastructure.
Industry observers note that while the current footprint remains limited, the activation of these sites establishes a foundation for broader adoption in the coming months. The expansion of 5G is expected to support faster internet speeds, improved network reliability, and enhanced digital services for both businesses and consumers. As deployment continues, the focus will likely remain on increasing device compatibility, expanding coverage, and strengthening overall network performance across major cities.
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