The promise of lightning-fast internet with Airtel’s 5G network has excited millions of users across India. With Airtel promoting its unlimited 5G data plans as a game-changer, many customers have eagerly upgraded their devices and recharged with eligible plans to experience seamless connectivity. However, a growing number of users are facing a frustrating issue: Airtel 5G unlimited data not working. Despite having a 5G-enabled device, strong network signals, and an active plan, the unlimited 5G data fails to deliver. In this blog post, we’ll dive deep into the reasons behind Airtel 5G unlimited data not working, explore potential solutions, and provide actionable steps to get your 5G back on track.
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Understanding Airtel’s Unlimited 5G Data Offer
To address Airtel 5G unlimited data not working, it’s important to first understand what Airtel’s unlimited 5G offer entails. Airtel launched its 5G services in October 2022, branding it as Airtel 5G Plus. The company promised unlimited 5G data for customers with 5G-compatible devices, provided they are in a 5G coverage area and subscribed to an eligible plan. Typically, prepaid plans starting at Rs. 239 and most postpaid plans qualify for this offer. Users must claim the unlimited 5G data through the Airtel Thanks App after recharging.
However, many users report that even after meeting these conditions, Airtel 5G unlimited data not working remains a persistent issue. The problem often manifests as data being deducted from the 4G quota instead of the unlimited 5G pool, or the internet stopping entirely after the daily 4G limit is exhausted. Let’s explore why this happens and how to fix it.
Common Reasons Why Airtel 5G Unlimited Data Is Not Working
The issue of Airtel 5G unlimited data not working can stem from several factors. Below, we outline the most common reasons based on user experiences and technical insights:
- Non-Standalone (NSA) 5G Network: Airtel uses a Non-Standalone (NSA) 5G network, which relies on existing 4G infrastructure. This means that even if your phone displays a 5G signal, it may still consume 4G data in certain scenarios. If the 4G core is prioritized, your unlimited 5G data may not kick in, leading to Airtel 5G unlimited data not working.
- Failure to Claim Unlimited 5G Offer: Airtel requires users to manually claim the unlimited 5G data offer via the Airtel Thanks App after every recharge. If you skip this step, your plan may default to consuming 4G data, resulting in Airtel 5G unlimited data not working.
- Fair Usage Policy (FUP) Limits: Airtel’s unlimited 5G data comes with a fair usage policy, reportedly capping high-speed 5G data at around 300GB per month. Once this limit is exceeded, speeds may be throttled, or the unlimited 5G data may stop working entirely until the next cycle. This has caused Airtel 5G unlimited data not working for heavy data users.
- Device Compatibility Issues: Even if your phone is 5G-enabled, it may require a software update to fully support Airtel’s 5G bands. Without the latest firmware, you might face Airtel 5G unlimited data not working despite having a compatible device.
- Network Coverage Gaps: Airtel’s 5G Plus is available in select areas, and coverage can vary even within a city. If you’re not in a true 5G coverage zone, your phone may fall back to 4G, causing Airtel 5G unlimited data not working.
- Airtel Thanks App Glitches: Some users report that the Airtel Thanks App itself causes issues by incorrectly tracking data usage or failing to activate the unlimited 5G offer, leading to Airtel 5G unlimited data not working.
- Hotspot Restrictions: Airtel’s terms prohibit sharing unlimited 5G data via mobile hotspots. If you’re using a hotspot, your data may be deducted from the 4G quota, contributing to Airtel 5G unlimited data not working.
These reasons highlight the complexity of the issue and why Airtel 5G unlimited data not working is a common complaint among users.
How to Fix Airtel 5G Unlimited Data Not Working
If you’re struggling with Airtel 5G unlimited data not working, don’t worry—there are several troubleshooting steps you can try. Here’s a step-by-step guide to resolve the issue:
- Verify 5G Compatibility and Coverage:
- Ensure your device supports Airtel’s 5G bands (check your phone’s specifications).
- Confirm you’re in an Airtel 5G Plus coverage area using the Airtel Thanks App or website.
- Update your phone’s software to the latest version to unlock 5G support.
- Claim Unlimited 5G Data in the Airtel Thanks App:
- Open the Airtel Thanks App and navigate to the “Claim Unlimited 5G Data” section.
- Activate the offer after every recharge. You should receive a confirmation message.
- If the app shows the offer as active but Airtel 5G unlimited data not working, try uninstalling and reinstalling the app, as some users report this resolves glitches.
- Check Network Settings:
- Go to your phone’s network settings and set the preferred network mode to “5G/4G/3G/2G (Auto)” or “5G Only” (if available).
- Restart your device to refresh the network connection.
- Download the Netmonster app to verify if your phone is connected to a true 5G NSA network, as a fake 5G signal can cause Airtel 5G unlimited data not working.
- Monitor Data Usage:
- Check your data usage in the Airtel Thanks App to ensure you haven’t exceeded the 300GB FUP limit.
- If you’ve hit the limit, wait for the 30-day cycle to reset, or contact customer care to confirm.
- Disable Data Limits and Warnings:
- Go to your phone’s settings and turn off any data usage limits, smart data modes, or cellular usage statistics. These settings can interfere with unlimited 5G data, causing Airtel 5G unlimited data not working.
- Contact Airtel Customer Support:
- If the above steps don’t work, reach out to Airtel’s customer care via the 198 helpline or email.
- File a complaint and provide details like your plan, device model, and location. Some users report resolution after escalating the issue.
- Avoid Hotspot Usage:
- Refrain from using your phone as a hotspot, as this violates Airtel’s terms and may cause Airtel 5G unlimited data not working.
By following these steps, you can address most issues related to Airtel 5G unlimited data not working and restore your high-speed connectivity.
User Experiences and Complaints
The frustration surrounding Airtel 5G unlimited data not working is evident across social media and forums. For instance, users on X have voiced their disappointment, with one stating, “Airtel’s unlimited 5G is a scam—my 4G data gets exhausted first, and then the internet stops completely.” Another user reported, “Even with a 5G signal and an eligible plan, my unlimited 5G data isn’t working after 2GB daily.” These sentiments echo the experiences of many who feel misled by Airtel’s promise of unlimited 5G.
On platforms like Reddit, users have shared workarounds, such as uninstalling the Airtel Thanks App and disabling data limits, which worked for some but not others. These real-world insights highlight the inconsistency of Airtel’s 5G service and the need for clearer communication from the company.
Airtel’s Response and Future Outlook
Airtel has acknowledged some of these issues indirectly through updates to its terms and conditions. For example, the company clarified that unlimited 5G data is subject to a 300GB FUP limit and is meant for personal, non-commercial use only. However, the lack of proactive communication about these restrictions has fueled distrust among users.
Looking ahead, Airtel is expanding its 5G coverage and may transition to a Standalone (SA) 5G network, which could resolve some of the NSA-related issues causing Airtel 5G unlimited data not working. Until then, users must rely on troubleshooting and customer support to navigate these challenges.
Comparing Airtel 5G with Competitors
To put Airtel 5G unlimited data not working in perspective, it’s worth comparing Airtel’s service with competitors like Jio. Jio uses a Standalone 5G network, which ensures true 5G connectivity and reportedly fewer issues with unlimited data. Users on forums often praise Jio’s seamless unlimited 5G experience, with no restrictions on hotspot usage. This has led some Airtel customers to consider porting to Jio, especially after repeated instances of Airtel 5G unlimited data not working.
However, Airtel’s wider 4G coverage and additional benefits like Apollo 24/7 and Hello Tunes may still appeal to users who prioritize these perks. The choice ultimately depends on your location, device, and data needs.
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Conclusion
The issue of Airtel 5G unlimited data not working is a significant hurdle for users eager to embrace 5G technology. From NSA network limitations to FUP caps and app glitches, the reasons behind this problem are varied and complex. However, by verifying your device compatibility, claiming the offer correctly, and following the troubleshooting steps outlined above, you can increase your chances of resolving Airtel 5G unlimited data not working. If the issue persists, don’t hesitate to escalate it to Airtel’s customer support or explore alternatives like Jio.
As Airtel continues to refine its 5G network, we hope for greater transparency and reliability in delivering the promised unlimited 5G experience. Until then, staying informed and proactive is the best way to tackle Airtel 5G unlimited data not working and enjoy the benefits of next-generation connectivity.
