https://www.cnet.com/news/apple-iphones-are-now-showing-at-ts-fake-5ge-network-too/

"Today, some iPhone and iPad users could start seeing our 5G Evolution indicator on their devices," said an AT&T spokesperson to CNET. "The indicator simply helps customers know when they are in an area where the 5G Evolution experience may be available."  

The fact that Apple is allowing AT&T to do this is also notable. The phone maker has hinted it is in no rush to make a 5G phone. By allowing this 5GE text to display on its phone implies that the company is content with users merely thinking they have a 5G-enabled iPhone when they really do not.