Troubleshooting data connectivity on my smartphone or tablet

Unable to use mobile data or the speed is slow

Try these tips.

Restart your device: A simple restart often solves problems.

Check if you can make or receive calls: If you’re unable to make or receive calls, you may be out of the coverage area. Use our coverage map to find your location and confirm that you have coverage.

Data settings: Go to your device settings. Make sure airplane mode is turned off, and mobile/cellular data is turned on.

Reconnect to the network: Turn airplane mode on for 30 seconds, then turn it off.

Data usage: Check if you've hit your data limit in MyBell or the MyBell app.

SIM card: Remove your physical SIM card and reinsert it. Skip this step if you have an eSIM.

Poor signal? Try moving to a different location.

Software update: Go to your device settings and, if applicable, install any software updates.

Reset network settings: This resets all the network settings to default, including those for Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. For instructions: iPhone, Samsung, Google, LG or find your device.

Clear your browser's cache and cookies: This removes temporary files that can cause problems. For instructions, please refer to your device manufacturer’s website.

Test your connection: Open different apps that use data (e.g., Facebook, Instagram) to see if the issue is with your connection or with a particular app.

App not working? If your browser works but a specific app doesn't, see our app troubleshooting tips below.

Unable to see the network signal indicator (5G, LTE, 4G, etc.)

A signal indicator on the screen shows which data network your device is using. For example, a 5G icon will appear if the device is connected to the 5G network. Here are the signal indicators that may appear on your device:

• HSPA/HSPA+
• 4G LTE/LTE-A
• 5G/5G+

Here are some reasons why you may not see a signal indicator:

Phone call: The signal indicator may not display during calls; however, it will reflect the network signal strength after the call ends, depending on your network connection.

No coverage: You are in an area where limited or no mobile coverage is available. Check our coverage map to see if and what network is available where you are.

Incompatible device/SIM: You need a compatible phone, a Bell SIM card or eSIM, and a plan with at least 500 MB of data. Check if your device is compatible with the Bell network.

Network settings: Check the mobile/cellular network settings on your device. Make sure the network mode is set to "Global" or "Auto." Other reasons: Signal strength can vary due to location, weather and your device.

Other reasons: Signal strength can vary due to location, weather and your device.

Unable to use an app

Try these tips.

Instructions vary by device; for details, please refer to your device manufacturer’s website.

Clear your browser's cache and cookies: This removes temporary files that can cause problems.

Clear the app's cache: This removes temporary files from the app itself, without deleting your data (like photos or messages).

Close the app: Force-quit the app and restart it.

Update the app: Check your app store for updates.

Reinstall the app: Delete the app and reinstall it from the app store. If the problem persists, contact the device manufacturer for app-specific troubleshooting.