Finally got a reply from Fairphone (and they apologized for the delay). Unfortunately, none of their suggestions below helped in my case. I’ve asked them for further advice. Let’s see what else they will reply next.
Step 1: Update
Make sure to update to the latest software: Android OS 122 (Build number FP5.UT2P.B.122 ) is from June 2025
The release of some updates may be delayed by up to a few weeks. This depends on your country and phone carrier.
Step 2: APN settings
Your APN settings affect how your Fairphone 5 connects with the network. To check if they are causing issues:
- Reset your APN settings.
- Depending on your network operator, you might need to set your APN settings manually.
Note, you’ll need to do this step separately for each SIM card you’re using, including eSIMs.
Step 3: Try different connection protocols
If the issues persist, the phone might be trying to connect using a network protocol that is not supported by your contract.
- Go to Settings → Network & internet → Mobile network → Preferred network type.
- Try the available options (their naming can differ based on operator).
- Let me know if you get connection and on which protocol it happens.
Step 4: Disable 4G Calling (VoLTE) and Wi-Fi calling
These technologies are used for high quality phone calls, however sometimes they can have a negative effect on network connectivity.
- Go to Settings → Network & internet → SIMs (select the SIM you want to configure) and scroll down.
- If 4G Calling (VoLTE) or Wi-Fi calling (VoWi-Fi) are listed in your options, disable them and retry.
- These settings may be called differently and might be hidden depending on your operator’s wishes. If they are hidden for you, switch your preferred network type to 2G or 3G if possible.
Test again. If the issue remains, continue with the next step.
Step 5: Set preferred SIM card for mobile data
Your Fairphone 5 uses the default SIM card for mobile data. So, if you’re using two SIM cards, you will need to set your preferences:
- Go to Settings → Network and Internet → tap on one of the 2 SIM cards.
- Select Data preference. Usually, SIM card 1 is selected by default, but you can change it in these settings for the one you prefer.
- Check if the issue is gone.
You can read this support article for more information on this.
Step 6: Try a couple of different SIM cards
Borrow a couple of SIM cards from family members or friends and test them on your device. It’s best if you try with at least one card from the same provider and one from a different provider. Make sure to go through all the steps you already tried with your own SIM card.
If you get a data connection, something is wrong with either your SIM card or your contract/data plan. Please, contact your provider if that’s the case.
Does your SIM card work in another phone? Let me know.
Step 7: Check your network operator
Make sure your Fairphone 5 connects to the right network:
- Go to Settings → Network & internet → SIMs (select the SIM you want to configure) and scroll down.
- Disable the option Automatically select network. The phone will scan for all available operators. This might take some time.
- Manually select your operator (provider).
- Check if the issue is gone.
Get in touch with your network operator and ask if there are any issues on their network in your area (local antenna might be broken or eSIM services might be down).
Step 8: Additional settings (5G, eSIM)
If you only have issues connecting to 5G mobile data:
- Make sure you’ve enabled 5G in the settings from Step 3.
- Power saving options often turn 5G off. Go to Settings → Battery & Charging → Battery Saver and make sure that it’s turned off.
If you have issues connecting to mobile data via an eSIM card:
- Reinstall your eSIM card.
- If you’re using a dual SIM setup, remove the other SIM card, test only the eSIM. Your provider(s) must support a feature called Dual SIM with an eSIM and this is an easy way to check if it works. If removing the physical SIM fixes your issue, contact the provider(s) for both SIMs and ask if this is something they can support you with.
Step 9: Safe Mode
To exclude the possibility of a corrupted third-party software:
- Reboot your Fairphone 5 in Safe mode.
- Disable Airplane mode and make sure your mobile data is enabled.
- Check if you have mobile data while in Safe mode.
In Safe Mode, downloaded apps are temporarily disabled to help you identify the cause of an issue. In our article on Safe Mode, go through the steps and make sure to read the Important notes. You can easily exit Safe Mode by restarting the phone.
