The signal booster in Cuba: "Does that work?"

A Cuban warns about "signal boosters" for mobile phones in Cuba, and users on TikTok confirm their experiences with these golden stickers.


A Cuban woman identified on TikTok as Aprendedora (@aprendedorajeje) shared a video that is causing a stir on social media, demonstrating how to use a "signal booster" for mobile phones.

The so-called "signal boosters" for mobile phones are actually gold stickers that stick to the phone. Sellers claim that this small accessory improves signal reception. They are sold in online stores like Temu, at 7 units for one dollar.

The Cuban Learner explains in her video that many people recommended her to try a signal booster, and trusting the comments, she decided to buy it for 500 Cuban pesos. However, after placing it on her phone, she did not see any improvement in connectivity.

"I bought the most expensive sticker in the world, but it looks nice... Right?", the young woman commented as she showed how her phone was still offline.

In the comments on their post, many users confirmed that they had fallen victim to the same scam. "I bought it too and it doesn't work. It's a scam," wrote one internet user.

Despite the evidence and testimonies, there are still people who believe in the alleged effectiveness of the product. Some insist that the golden sticker has "advanced technology" and purchase it in the hope of improving connectivity.

The video of Aprendedora has served as a warning for other users, preventing them from falling into this tech fraud that is circulating and currently trending in the Cuban black market.

Why don't those signal boosters work?

Signal boosters in the form of stickers sold for mobile phones do not work effectively and are often a scam. These products promise to improve the phone's signal by adhering to the back of the device, but they lack real technology to significantly amplify the signal.

  • They do not have a real amplification mechanism: A signal amplifier requires active electronic components such as external antennas or repeaters, not just a simple adhesive sheet.
  • They cannot improve the reception: Mobile phone signals rely on radio waves, which require specialized hardware to be captured and amplified.
  • There is no scientific evidence: There are no real tests or technical studies that support the effectiveness of these stickers.
  • They are a marketing trick: They often use terms like "nanotechnology" or "enhanced frequency," but in reality, they are just pieces of metal or plastic with no real functionality.

Real alternatives to improve mobile signal

  • Use mobile signal repeaters because they capture weak signals and amplify them inside buildings.
  • Take advantage of Wi-Fi Calling. If you have a weak signal, you can make calls over a Wi-Fi network.
  • Change location to use the mobile. Sometimes, moving to an open area or near a window improves the signal.
  • Use a mobile phone with a better antenna. Some phone models have better signal reception than others.

In conclusion, the "magic" stickers to improve signal are a scam and have no real effect on the quality of reception.

Frequently Asked Questions about Signal Boosters and Connectivity in Cuba

Do signal boosters really work in Cuba?

According to testimonies shared by users like Aprendedora on TikTok, signal boosters do not improve mobile phone reception in Cuba. Many people have reported being scammed after purchasing these devices, which do not meet the promised expectations.

Why do Cubans resort to inventions to improve internet signal?

Due to the poor coverage of mobile internet and the lack of efficient solutions from ETECSA, Cubans have developed ingenious inventions to improve connectivity, such as homemade antennas made from recycled materials. These inventions are a response to the need to stay connected in a context of economic and technological restrictions.

How does the energy crisis affect connectivity in Cuba?

The energy crisis in Cuba, characterized by prolonged blackouts, has worsened the connectivity situation. Cubans have to find alternatives to charge their devices, such as using electric generators or paying for charging services, which reflects the precariousness and ingenuity required to cope with daily challenges.

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CiberCuba Editorial Team

A team of journalists committed to reporting on Cuban current affairs and topics of global interest. At CiberCuba, we work to deliver truthful news and critical analysis.

CiberCuba Editorial Team

A team of journalists committed to reporting on Cuban current affairs and topics of global interest. At CiberCuba, we work to deliver truthful news and critical analysis.