Sony has quietly removed a popular workaround that allowed Xperia smartphone owners to access 5G networks in regions or on carriers lacking official certification. The tweak had long served as a crucial fix for enthusiasts and users importing devices into unsupported markets.

Without this workaround, affected Xperia devices may be restricted to older LTE and 4G connections. The change appears to stem from recent software adjustments, shutting down the method users previously relied on to force or enable 5G network provisioning.

This development underscores the ongoing frustrations with carrier provisioning and network restrictions on unlocked smartphones, leaving affected users with fewer options for high-speed connectivity.

For full details and troubleshooting context, check the original reporting on Android Authority.