
Google is hard at work on its follow-up to the Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL launched in October 2018. The next-generation smartphones, presumably called Pixel 4 and Pixel 4 XL, are rumoured to be powered by the next major version of Android OS and boast the latest Qualcomm SnapDragon chipset.
Thanks to new code uncovered in the latest version of Android and spotted by the team at XDA Developers, we now have a clue about another upgrade coming to the next Google Pixel – fully-fledged dual SIM support.
- EXCLUSIVE: Google Pixel 4 could be a fully customisable, modular smartphone
- Google Pixel 4 is ditching the notch for a Galaxy S10-style all-screen design
While it's possible for the Pixel 2 and Pixel 3 to support two SIM cards using eSIM technology, which is built into the handset by default, it's impossible to run the physical SIM network and the eSIM network at the same time. So, the minute that you switch over to the eSIM, you're no longer able to make or receive phone calls from the number assigned to the physical SIM in your smartphone.
For those who want to use dual SIM functionality to juggle a business and personal number, that's a pretty serious setback. In fact, even if you only wanted to use the eSIM to buy mobile data from a local country when on holiday to avoid eye-watering roaming charges – not being able to receive any text messages or calls to the number associated with your usual SIM card is a not inconsiderable drawback.
Google looks set to fix that with the forthcoming Pixel 4, which will use a more advanced version of the technology already present in some rival smartphones, including the iPhone XR, iPhone XS, and iPhone XS Max.
This allows users to have two phone numbers running at the same time – so you can send a text to a close personal friend from your own number, then take an important call from someone ringing your work line.
Little else is known about the Pixel 4 and Pixel 4 XL at the moment, but we expect to get a few more clues about what Google has planned for its flagship smartphones when it unveils Android 10.0 'Q' – we predict this will be called Quality Street – during its annual developer conference, known as Google I/O, in May 2019.
Sign up to the T3 newsletter for smarter living straight to your inbox
Get all the latest news, reviews, deals and buying guides on gorgeous tech, home and active products from the T3 experts
As a former Staff Writer for T3, Aaron writes about almost anything shiny and techie. When he’s not barking orders at Alexa-powered microwaves or gawping at 5G speed tests, Aaron covers everything from smartphones, tablets and laptops, to speakers, TVs and smart home gadgets. Prior to joining T3, Aaron worked at the Daily Express and and MailOnline.
-
Three underrated Pilates exercises that will build phenomenal core strength
Remove sit-ups and crunches from your routine and add these instead
By Bryony Firth-Bernard Published
-
I wish this Amy Schumer movie didn't exist – but it's already Netflix's new no.1
Kinda Pregnant has been critically lambasted
By Mike Lowe Published
-
Google Pixel 9a reportedly coming with a stack of freebies
Google’s new Pixel 9a could come with a few somethings to sweeten the deal
By Chris Hall Published
-
Google Pixel 9a could be imminent as documents found online
This would make the device's launch two months early
By Britta O'Boyle Published
-
Google TV gets a new AI-powered feature update, but it's not for everyone
Your Google TV box or Chromecast might have received a new feature update – here's what it does
By Britta O'Boyle Published
-
Samsung's Vision Pro rival to get a big boost from a clever Google acquisition
Google is buying HTC's XR division to work on Android XR – the driving force behind Project Moohan
By John McCann Published
-
Yes, there really is a Google Pixel 11 rumour already
Details about Google's next-next-generation handset have surfaced online
By Chris Hall Published
-
Google Chrome and Android getting a ground-breaking free audio upgrade
Google's rival to Dolby Atmos and Apple Spatial Audio is coming to mobile platforms too
By Britta O'Boyle Published
-
Android 16 tipped for great new feature tablet owners will love
Android 16 could supercharge your tablet use with this new feature
By Chris Hall Published
-
Android XR to debut on all-new Apple Vision Pro rival from Samsung
Android XR will underpin future mixed reality experiences on headsets and glasses
By Chris Hall Published