Google unlocks 5G access on Pixel phones in newly selected regions

Google is gradually allowing Pixel smartphones to connect to its 5G network in some regions. The search giant is not allowing all Pixel smartphones equipped with 5G hardware to access its 5G network. Also, not all supported devices will work with his available 5G networks.

The Pixel lineup, from the Pixel 4a (5G) to the latest Pixel 8 Pro, can work on 5G networks in some countries. Basically, Google is gradually unlocking his 5G modem on these devices and seems to be dragging its feet on its rollout.

Google Pixel Android smartphone lineup now supports 5G in 38 countries

Google maintains a list of countries where 5G is available on Pixel-branded Android smartphones. The company recently updated its list.

Google has added seven more countries to the list, bringing the number of countries where Pixel smartphones can connect to 5G networks to 38. Google is touting this feature as “5G on Pixel,” and the list includes his seven new European regions: Croatia, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, latvia, Liechtenstein and Slovakia.

It’s strange to note that Google isn’t officially selling its latest Pixel smartphones in the newly added markets. Google sells his Pixel 8 series through the official Google Store in just 20 countries. According to 9to5Google, these include Austria, Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Ireland, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Netherlands, Switzerland, Taiwan, Norway, Portugal, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, UK, and US .

Simply put, Google’s Pixel smartphones, starting with the Pixel 4a (5G), will be able to connect to 5G networks in 18 countries. Many of these devices are not officially available or sold through authorized retailers.

Why is Google restricting 5G usage?

Rapidly expanding 5G networks promise lightning-fast connection speeds. Additionally, starting with 4G, carriers can now offer VoLTE and Wi-Fi calling on supported smartphones.

Therefore, it doesn’t make much sense to limit 5G availability, especially if the hardware supports 5G. After all, the availability of reliable 5G networks is primarily the responsibility of communication service providers.

Google hasn’t said anything about why the restrictions are so restrictive and the rollout so slow. Some experts argue that certification and testing may be to blame for the delay. But this still doesn’t explain why Google would unlock 5G access for him in regions where his Pixel smartphones aren’t officially available.

Google may be working on a complex distribution strategy and negotiating with carriers. The search giant may be expanding 5G availability after noticing that multiple users are purchasing Pixels through unofficial channels.

March 20, 2024