This trick can help you get a signal even when your smartphone no longer displays one.

This hidden option in your phone's settings can help you a lot.

Our smartphone networks can sometimes be unpredictable. While 4G coverage is increasingly widespread, it doesn't always guarantee a good signal everywhere. This is especially true when traveling abroad, where some carriers and countries may not consider your 4G or 5G options for making calls or using the internet.

There is, however, a way to ensure you have a network connection even when it doesn't seem to be available. But be warned: this trick is hidden deep in your phone's settings, and it's perfectly understandable if you haven't figured it out on your own.

When your mobile tries to connect to a network, it will first prioritize the highest generation of your plan. For many users, this is 4G, which is now widespread throughout the country. For the lucky ones and those living in well-equipped areas, it is even possible to take advantage of 5G for telecommunications. 3G, on the other hand, receives very little attention due to its rapid replacement by 4G. These three generations rely primarily on the internet to allow you to browse online.

But what if neither of these generations is available? Your smartphone then has difficulty making calls or sending messages. That's why it's best to rely on previous generations when the need arises.

To do this, go to your phone's settings and the "Mobile Networks" tab. Scroll down a bit and you should find a section whose name depends on your device brand. On Samsung, for example, it's called "2G Service Authorization." On a Google Pixel, it's called "Allow 2G." Check this box when you feel your network is unstable to allow your smartphone to switch to this older generation that doesn't rely on the internet.

If your smartphone is already running Android 16, the procedure is different. Android 16 reverses the rules of previous Android versions with a "Prevent 2G connections" setting that you'll need to disable if you want to use the 2G network. Again, it's recommended to remove this permission once you no longer need it for security reasons.

This technique can sometimes allow you to access a 2G communication network. However, there is one major drawback to be aware of. 2G is not very secure, which is why we recommend disabling the option when you no longer need it.