How to Upgrade Smart SIM to 5G with Same Number (Fast & Easy Guide)

BySandra Carlos

Short Answer:

To upgrade your Smart SIM to 5G while keeping the same number, visit a Smart Store with one valid ID and request a SIM upgrade. Once the new 5G SIM is activated, insert it into your phone and restart your device.


If your phone still connects to 3G or struggles to get fast internet while others nearby enjoy LTE or 5G speeds, you should upgrade Smart SIM to 5G . In many cases, the issue is not your device but an outdated Smart SIM that limits network access, weakens signal strength, and blocks newer promos. Upgrading your Smart SIM fixes these problems and unlocks faster, more stable connectivity.

The good news is that Smart allows you to upgrade your SIM without changing your mobile number. You can keep using the same contacts, registered apps, and linked services while enjoying improved network performance and access to LTE and 5G speeds.

What Does a Smart SIM Upgrade Actually Do?

A Smart SIM upgrade replaces your existing SIM with a new LTE or 5G-compatible SIM. Older SIM cards were designed for earlier network standards and cannot handle modern speeds or features efficiently.

After upgrading, your SIM becomes compatible with:

  • LTE and 5G data networks
  • Improved signal handling
  • Better call stability
  • New Smart promos designed for high-speed users

You can either keep your current number or switch to a new one, but most users prefer keeping the same number to avoid inconvenience.

When Should You Upgrade Your Smart SIM?

You likely need a Smart SIM upgrade if you notice any of the following:

  • Your phone connects only to 3G despite LTE or 5G coverage
  • Internet speed feels slow even with data promos
  • Calls drop frequently or take longer to connect
  • Your SIM is very old or does not fit properly in newer phones
  • Smart sends you an SMS recommending a SIM upgrade
  • Certain LTE or 5G promos fail to activate

If any of these apply, upgrading your SIM is the quickest solution.

Things To Keep In Mind Before Upgrading

Before starting the upgrade process, prepare these items to avoid delays:

  • One valid government-issued ID
  • Your existing Smart SIM (if keeping the same number)
  • Your mobile phone
  • A Smart LTE or 5G-ready SIM (often free at Smart Stores)

Having these ready ensures a smooth upgrade experience.

Upgrade Smart SIM to 5G (Same Number)

Before starting your Smart SIM upgrade, it is important to prepare a few essentials in advance. Keeping everything ready helps avoid delays and makes the process faster and smoother.

  • Valid ID: You will need a government-issued identification card, especially if you are upgrading your SIM at a Smart Store.
  • Current Smart SIM: Your existing SIM is required if you plan to keep the same mobile number during the upgrade.
  • Mobile Phone: Your phone is necessary to complete the upgrade and confirm the number transfer.
  • LTE or 5G-Ready Smart SIM: A new SIM that supports LTE or 5G is required. This is available as an upgrade kit and is sometimes offered free through Smart promotions.
  • SIM Serial Number (Optional): The SIM number printed on the card may be requested during the upgrade in some cases.

Preparing these items beforehand ensures a smooth upgrade experience, whether you choose to upgrade on your own or visit a Smart Store for assistance.

Upgrade Smart SIM to 5G

Option 1: Self-Service SIM Upgrade

This method is suitable if your SIM is working and you want to upgrade on your own.

  • Purchase a Smart LTE or 5G SIM upgrade kit
  • Turn off your phone and remove the old SIM
  • Insert the new SIM into your phone
  • Using the new SIM, send this message:
    UPGRADE your 11-digit mobile number to 9999
  • Wait for the confirmation SMS
  • Restart your phone once the transfer is complete

After restarting, your existing number and services should work on the new SIM.

Option 2: Upgrade at a Smart Store

This is the safest and most recommended method, especially if your SIM is damaged or self-upgrade fails.

  • Visit the nearest Smart Store
  • Bring your old SIM, phone, and valid ID
  • Request a Smart SIM upgrade to LTE or 5G
  • Choose to keep your current number
  • Wait while the staff processes the transfer
  • Test calls and mobile data before leaving

This option ensures correct activation and immediate support if issues occur.

Common Problems After Upgrading and How to Fix Them

No Signal on New SIM

  • Restart your phone
  • Reinsert the SIM properly
  • Test the SIM in another phone

Phone Still Shows 3G

  • Check if your device supports LTE or 5G
  • Set network mode to LTE or 5G in settings
  • Confirm coverage in your location

No Confirmation Message

  • Ensure the SMS format was correct
  • Wait a few minutes and try again
  • Visit a Smart Store for manual processing

Missing Load or Promos

  • Restart your phone
  • Wait for the transfer to finish
  • Contact Smart customer support if needed

Why Upgrading to a Smart LTE or 5G SIM Is Worth It

Upgrading your Smart SIM offers several advantages:

  • Faster browsing and downloads
  • Smoother video streaming and calls
  • Stronger signal in crowded areas
  • Access to exclusive LTE and 5G promos
  • Full compatibility with modern smartphones
  • Future-ready connection as older networks are phased out

An upgraded SIM ensures your phone and network work at their best.

Also Read: How to Pasaload Smart and TNT
Also Read: How to Convert Smart Postpaid to Prepaid
Also Read: Download Smart SIM GigaLife App
Also Read: How to Borrow Load in Smart

Conclusion

Upgrading your Smart SIM to LTE or 5G with the same number is a simple but powerful step that improves your mobile experience. It allows you to enjoy faster internet, clearer calls, and better signal without changing your number or losing active services.

If your phone still relies on 3G or struggles with weak connectivity, upgrading your SIM is the right move. Prepare your ID, your current SIM, and choose either self-upgrade or visit a Smart Store to make the switch and enjoy stronger, faster connections.

To upgrade your Smart SIM from 3G to LTE or 5G, replace your old SIM with a new LTE or 5G-ready SIM. You can upgrade at a Smart Store or use a SIM upgrade kit while keeping the same number.

No. If you choose a same-number upgrade, your mobile number, load, and active promos will transfer to the new SIM without any loss.

The cost is usually low if you buy a SIM upgrade kit. At Smart Stores, SIM upgrades are sometimes free during promotions, so it is best to ask the staff.

Most Smart SIM upgrades are completed within a few minutes. In some cases, full activation may take a few hours depending on network conditions.

If you do not receive a confirmation message or have no signal after upgrading, restart your phone or visit the nearest Smart Store for manual assistance.

I’m Sandra Carlos, the founder of this website. I created this platform after repeatedly facing the same issue many Smart users experience finding clear and reliable information about Smart SIM registration. Most of what I found online was outdated, confusing, or simply copied, which made the process unnecessarily frustrating. To solve this, I started documenting every step I personally followed while registering and managing my own Smart SIM.

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