What \'E\' Means on Your Phone, and Why It\'s So Slow

You might have noticed that whenever your phone experiences connectivity issues, the signal bar displays an "E" instead of 5G or LTE. But what exactly does "E" mean, and why does it make your internet connection so slow?

What "E" Means on Your Phone

The "E" on your phone represents an EDGE (Enhanced Data Rates for GSM Evolution) network technology with limited internet speed—slower than 3G but faster than 2G. That's why it's often called 2.75G. It uses an 8PSK (Phase Shift Keying) modulation technique to send data faster than standard GSM technology.

EDGE was launched in 2003 when Cingular, now known as AT&T, deployed it on its GSM (Global System for Mobile) network. At that time, GPRS (General Packet Radio Service) was the standard for data transmission on GSM networks, but it had limitations. It could handle a maximum internet speed of 172 Kbps, which was insufficient to meet increasing internet demands.

Why Is "E" So Slow?

When your phone switches to "E" mode, you can still send texts and make calls, but your internet speed drops. This is due to EDGE technology, which has a theoretical maximum speed of 384 Kbps—much slower than the average internet speed today. Also, note that EDGE's maximum speed was tested in ideal lab conditions. Real-world speeds are typically much slower.

Most countries worldwide now use 4G networks at minimum, and many are deep into 5G network rollouts. Despite this, EDGE networks still exist as a backup, but the situation varies by country and carrier. For example, in the US, Verizon and AT&T have already shut down their 2G networks, while T-Mobile is expected to follow suit in 2024.

Some countries are also phasing out 3G networks, which may lead to unexpected issues with networked devices unable to use modern networks.

What Is Your Phone Showing "E" Instead of 4G/5G?

These are some reasons your phone may display the "E" network:

• Weak Signal: With poor network coverage, your phone may struggle to maintain a stable connection. In this case, it may switch to EDGE temporarily until you move to a better coverage area.
• Network Congestion: In high-traffic areas, such as concert venues or sporting events, network congestion may occur. To manage this, your phone might switch to EDGE to ensure you can still make calls and send messages.

As said above, you might still be able to send regular text messages and make calls, but internet access is extremely limited.

Tips to Fix a Phone Stuck on "-E"

If your phone is stuck on the "E" network, here are some tips to get faster internet:

1. Toggle Airplane Mode On and Off

Turn on Airplane Mode for a few seconds, then turn it off. This simple trick sometimes forces your phone to reconnect to a stronger network signal.

2. Manually Select the Network

If you know there's a stronger network available in your area, you can manually choose it from your phone's network settings. That will override the automatic network selection and connect you to a faster connection.

Android

1. In the settings menu, navigate to Connections > Mobile networks > Network operators.
2. Toggle off Select automatically and choose a network from the list.

iOS

1. Go to Settings > Mobile Service > Network Selection.
2. Turn off Automatic and choose your network.

3. Reset the Network Settings

If you recently modified your network settings, chances are something went wrong along the way. In that case, reset your network settings to their defaults. This process erases saved Wi-Fi networks, Bluetooth devices, and other preferences.

On an Android device, navigate to Settings > General Management > Reset > Reset network settings.

To reset network settings on iOS, tap Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset Network Settings.

4. Try Wi-Fi Instead of Cellular Data

As mentioned above, this issue often occurs when there's a weak cellular signal. Look for a nearby Wi-Fi network and connect to it instead. This is a temporary solution while you figure out the root cause of the network issue.

These are quick fixes when your phone is stuck in "E" mode. However, if none of the solutions work, contact your service provider for further assistance.

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