Apple has just released the new iPhone 17 series with significant upgrades that are likely to attract many users. The iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro models continue to support mmWave 5G in the United States, whereas users in other parts of the world are limited to sub-6GHz 5G networks.

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### Apple Limits mmWave 5G to U.S.-Sold iPhone 17 and Pro Models, Leaving Global Users with Slower Sub-6GHz Speeds

Since the introduction of 5G on the iPhone 12, mmWave has been a U.S.-only feature. Despite years passing, Apple has not expanded global support for it. In regions where mmWave adoption is growing—such as Australia, China, South Korea, Japan, and parts of Europe—it remains limited to certain devices.

According to Apple, the high cost of equipping devices with mmWave hardware and building mmWave networks makes a wider rollout impractical in countries with low uptake. However, mmWave technology excels in crowded areas like stadiums, airports, and concert venues due to its short range and ability to handle high data density. In contrast, it is less useful in suburban or rural settings.

Apple’s plans are clear: the company has removed support for mmWave from some iPad Pro models. For example, the M4 iPad Pro lacks mmWave connectivity, limiting it to sub-6GHz 5G modems. Additionally, the newly introduced iPhone Air features Apple’s custom-designed C1X modem, which also lacks mmWave connectivity.

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October 8, 2025

Unless significant changes occur in 5G infrastructure and carrier deployment, mmWave is likely to remain exclusive to the United States, offering American iPhone 17 users blazing fast 5G speeds. We will share more details on this soon, so stay tuned.