iPhone X and iPhone 8 can’t use T-Mobile’s new LTE network

By

So that's how you pronounce
Forking over $1000 won't give you great coverage on T-Mobile.
Photo: Apple

Apple customers looking to upgrade to the iPhone X or iPhone 8 and iPhone 8 Plus might want to think twice if they’re planning to use it on T-Mobile.

Despite packing some of the most innovative technology for a smartphone, all three new devices won’t be able to support T-Mobile’s upcoming LTE network that operates at the 600MHz frequency.

T-Mobile spent $8 billion securing the rights to the 600MHz frequency network from the FCC. The network is expected to roll out later this year, providing better coverage so that T-Mobile is more competitive with the likes of AT&T and Verizon.

T-Mobile’s 600Mhz LTE network

As first spotted by Business Insider, the new iPhones tech specs don’t show support for Band 71 which would be needed to access the LTE network. A T-Mobile representative confirmed the bad news in a tweet last Friday but the message has since been deleted.

It’s unclear at this time if Apple will come out with a version that can tap into Band 71 in the future. In the past, the company has released handsets specifically for Sprint and Verizon. Cult of Mac reached out to Apple for comment but did not receive a comment before publication.

Apple’s not the only one not supporting Band 71 yet. In fact, there aren’t any phones on the market yet that can access the frequency. T-Mobile said that Band 71-capable handsets from Samsung and LG will be coming later this year.

iPhone X and iPhone 8 users will still be able to access T-Mobile’s current LTE network but it’s not as fast and widespread as the 600Mhz network. T-Mobile expects the new network to play a crucial role in helping it attract more customers, especially in rural areas where its LTE coverage is currently pretty lacking compared to the major carriers.

Newsletters

Daily round-ups or a weekly refresher, straight from Cult of Mac to your inbox.

  • The Weekender

    The week's best Apple news, reviews and how-tos from Cult of Mac, every Saturday morning. Our readers say: "Thank you guys for always posting cool stuff" -- Vaughn Nevins. "Very informative" -- Kenly Xavier.