S23 ultra reception issues

[Obzrver]

I received my new S23 Ultra on the 16th of June, I never had more than 2 bars of reception, so pages weren't loading and multiple calls were needed to continue a conversation with someone.

The phone was replaced with another new phone today, the 16th of August, still only 2 bars.

They say that you have a poor signal if its between 90 and 100 dbm, I have regularly 108 to 120 dbm.

My area has 5g coverage, yet my phone has lousy performance.

I was so excited to be upgrading from a Note 8, and almost $2k L83r, that excitement has turned to frustration. I now have to return a second device ffs.

[Dolgogi]

Out of curiosity, have you tried dropping the phone back to 4G service and see how it goes?

Perhaps the 5G coverage is poor at your location, or the carrier may be doing upgrades/maintenance 🤔

[Obzrver]

I checked my nework 5g map and it's totally pink all around me. Near the bars it displays 5g but in settings it's showing 4g voice. ?

[Troubadour]

5G can be affected more than people realise by interference such as trees, turning a corner etc. Often people don't reslise because their use is catered for by 4G speeds. Googling topics like 5G disadvantages and similar terms will give more information.

[Obzrver]

I am giving this phone a longer chance, so far still ***e.
As a contractor I work all over Sydney, every area that I am in has pretty much the same scenario.
As to your suggestion, yes I have tried downgrading, same same.

[Troubadour]

1. Load an app called Aus Phone Towers. Use the hidden left menu for your phone, provider, etc.
Look at the map and see if you have coverage. Lock phone network settings to 4G and lower. If still a problem lock to 3G.Network settings are somewhere under Connections.
2. The settings connecting you to a cell tower may be wrong. If with Testra Google "Telstra 5G APN settings", for other providers search for provider name and APN settings. To check what is on your phone drag from top, tap search symbol, enter the full phrase Access Point Names, identify which is being used. Write down these settings 100% accurately in case you have to revert, restart.

[SJH747]

I had the same problem. Spoke to Telstra and they said unfortunately I am in a poor reception area. I eventually had to invest in a LPDA antenna on the roof with a Cel-Fi Go 41 signal booster and Omni antenna inside. Not cheap. However I now have 3-4 bars inside whereas before I was lucky to get 1 and no drop outs.

[Troubadour]

Good explanation. My ref to Aus Phone Towers was insufficient as I didn't explain options when reception is poor.

[Obzrver]

Thank you.

[Troubadour]

I note that I haven't referred you to wi-fi calling. Google "Telstra wi-fi calling". If you are not using this already it is a must as it also improves receiving calls via any wi-fi network you are logged into.