iOS 5.1 displays "4G" for HSPA+ Networks

Originator:Kyle.Blohn
Number:rdar://11004666 Date Originated:Wed, 07 Mar 2012 21:28:27 GMT
Status:Open Resolved:
Product:iPhone/iPod touch Product Version:5.1/ 9b179
Classification:UI/Usability Reproducible:Always
 
Summary: iPhones connected to HSPA+ Networks incorrectly display "4G" network indicator

Steps to Reproduce: 1) Connect to HSPA+ Network 2) Observe network indicator change to 4G

Expected Results: 1) iPhone displays "3G" indicator as the network type, as it has since the iPhone 3G in 2008.

Actual Results: iPhone switches network indicator to 4G, even though it is not connected to an LTE network.

Regression: Does not occur in iOS 2.0 though 5.0.1. Issue only occurs beginning in iOS 5.1, build 9B179. has been observed on iPhone 4S and iPhone 4 (GSM). 

Notes: This is a step backwards from iOS 5.0.1 and is deceptive to users. HSPA+ is a small software update to existing 3G networks, and does not offer the large jump in speeds associated with a generational improvement in cellular networking (e.g.- Moving from EDGE to 3G). 

Please see the following websites for numerous screenshots: http://www.theverge.com/2012/3/7/2852560/ios-5-1-iphone-4s-att-4g-indicator
http://www.macrumors.com/2012/03/07/ios-5-1-adds-4g-indicator-to-iphone-4s-status-bar-for-att-hspa-coverage/
http://www.anandtech.com/show/5657/apple-posts-ios-51-final-build-9b179

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