How To: Enable the Hidden 4G LTE Feature on Your Google Nexus 4

When the specs for Google's Nexus 4 came out, most critics were more than thrilled. A very fast processor, lots of RAM, a big display with very high resolution, and an 8MP camera made it the media darling of the smartphone world. It climbed the ranks of the best smartphones available, but couldn't quite reach to the top due to one reason—no 4G LTE.

Samsung's Galaxy S III and Apple's iPhone 5 both come with 4G LTE, so why couldn't the LG Nexus 4? While there are many reasons, Google was stated as saying, "Tactically, we want to make sure the devices are available for every network on the planet." Since 4G LTE is different for each network carrier, Google would have to build a custom phone for each of them. This would increase the price of the phone, causing it to lose some popularity.

When the phone finally came out, it was taken apart by many popular websites, as is the norm with new any new device. iFixit found that the phone does actually come with a 4G LTE chip, but couldn't function because of the missing 4G LTE radio. Well, thanks to XDA Developers forum member a1jatt, 4G LTE can now be activated on the Nexus 4.

Nexus 4G LTE Activation

In order to enable the 4G LTE on the Nexus 4:

• Go to the dialpad/phone.
• Dial in the this number: *#*#4636#*#* (This will bring up "Phone info").
• Tap WCDMA from under "Set preferred network type".
• Select "LTE/GSM/CDMA auto (PRL)".
• The 4G LTE network should now be activated.

While this is very simple, it won't work for everyone. The LTE will only work if you're on a wireless carrier that uses spectrum on Band 4 including Telus and Rogers & Bell in Canada. AT&T in the U.S. is not on Band 4, so U.S. users will have no luck with this. But try it out yourself to see if it works, it could work for other carriers.

• Note: Enabling the 4G LTE may decrease signal performance and drain battery.
• Note: In order to revert back to the 3G connection, choose "WCDMA" (or GSM) after dialing *#*#4636#*#*.