The H+ symbol in the status bar of a Samsung Galaxy phone means the device is connected to HSPA+, an enhanced version of High-Speed Packet Access (HSPA). It can appear alongside more familiar network indicators such as 4G and 5G.
HSPA supports theoretical data speeds of up to 21 Mbps, while HSPA+ can provide up to twice that rate. In practice, speeds on these networks are typically around 3.5 to 14 Mbps, and may be lower in some rural areas. The article compares this with reported LTE speeds of 12 to 40 Mbps and LTE Advanced speeds of 25 to 220 Mbps.
HSPA+ remains in use in some places where carriers have not fully upgraded their networks to LTE. It offered a way to improve older 3G infrastructure while operators prepared for larger network upgrades. A phone may show H+ if it is in an area without LTE coverage. Older Galaxy models that do not support Voice over LTE may also fall back to the network for calls; the source notes that most Samsung Galaxy phones released since the S4 support VoLTE.
Carriers are gradually retiring 3G and HSPA networks. Bell Mobility in Canada, for example, has announced plans to phase out its 3G/HSPA service nationwide by March 1, 2027. As legacy networks are replaced, newer Galaxy phones should connect to LTE or 5G where available, making the H+ indicator less common.
Sources: Engadget.