Vi expands 5G to 133 cities: How to activate 5G on your existing SIM

Vodafone Idea is rolling out 5G to more cities in May 2026. Here is how you can convert your existing SIMs into 5G.

Published By: Divya | Published: Mar 30, 2026, 03:23 PM (IST)

Vodafone 5G is expanding from 43 cities to 133 cities in India. If you haven't switched to 5G yet, then know Vodafone Idea (Vi) is making it simpler for you. The telecom provider is giving you an option to upgrade to 5G without the need to swap your existing 4G SIM. All you need are two major elements a 5G-enabled smartphone, which Also Read: These budget phones under Rs 15,000 come with big batteries and smooth displays

support the relevant 5G frequency bands used in India, and a plan along with 5G connectivity area to enter the new world of 5G. Also Read: OnePlus Nord CE 6, Nord CE 6 Lite Launched in India: Check Details

Vi explained in a blog that, "the SIM card plays an important role. Vi SIM cards are already 5G ready, which means existing Vi users do not need to replace their 4G SIMs to use 5G services."

If you are wondering how to switch your 4G Vi SIM to 5G, then here is a quick guide for you.

How to switch your 4G Vodafone Idea SIM to 5G?

To upgrade your 4G Vi SIM to a 5G, you need to follow these simple steps:

  • First of all, insert your existing Vi SIM in your mobile
  • Now, recharge with an eligible 5G plan
  • Go to the phone's network settings and turn on 5G
  • Make sure that you are in a 5G coverage area
  • Once you switch on all the settings and complete the recharge, the phone should automatically change it to 5G SIM.

The best part about this quick switch between 4G and 5G is that whenever you move out of the 5G network area, then it will switch back to 4G without manual action.

Vi's 5G expansion in India

Along with this, Vi has announced that the 5G network will expand to 90 additional cities in India by May 2026. This will expand the 5G connectivity to 133 cities nationwide from the current 43 cities.

The latest rollout of 5G will include 15 telecom circles, including regions of Mumbai, Delhi, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal and Punjab.

Get latest Tech and Auto news from Techlusive on our WhatsApp Channel, Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram and YouTube.