Pixel phones are getting one essential calling feature in unsupported markets. VoLTE is coming to the Pixel 11 series through the Network Settings Exchange (NSX), the GSMA reports. The partnership between Google and the GSMA was announced last month. This means Pixel 11 series devices are getting VoLTE connectivity in many unsupported markets.
The GSMA and Google announced a partnership for global VoLTE connectivity
Slides from the Google and GSMA event. | Images by Image by X
The GSMA (Global System for Mobile Communications Association) and Google are partnering to enable global VoLTE connectivity in unsupported markets. The partnership will use the NSX network to allow Pixel phones, starting with the Pixel 11 series, to get VoLTE connectivity globally.
It seems that the partnership is already in action, as X user akes29 reports that their Pixel 11 Pro running the latest Android 17 beta now supports VoLTE and 5G in unsupported markets. The user also sarcastically adds that "Pixel 11+ can be considered a world phone now (after 10 years)."
What is VoLTE?
VoLTE allows for better call quality, lower energy consumption, and simultaneous call and data connectivity. | Image by Ultra Mobile
VoLTE stands for Voice over Long-Term Evolution, which means making phone calls over a high-speed 4G LTE connection rather than relying on old 2G or 3G networks.
The feature comes with many benefits, among which are faster call connections, better call quality, lower battery usage, simultaneous data and voice connectivity, and no additional data charges while calling.
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How often do you travel abroad and do you need VoLTE on your Pixel phone while outside your country?
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The NSX network approach
NSX serves as a hub for VoLTE and other call and connectivity settings. Normally, smartphone manufacturers need to test their devices with carriers on each separate network to make sure all features work as intended.
NSX allows carriers to upload settings and gives smartphone brands one consolidated space to access all the necessary settings to allow VoLTE and other connectivity features on their devices across different networks.
Google notes that VoLTE on unsupported networks is disabled by default on Pixel devices, and users need to enable it manually in the settings menu. However, Google will pay close attention to VoLTE networks around the world and could enable the feature by default in future updates.
Bad news for older Pixel phones
Unfortunately, the new feature will be supported by the Pixel 11 series with no plans to add older generations to that list. | Image by PhoneArena
The big caveat is that this feature won't be coming to older Pixel phones anytime soon. Google has revealed that there are no plans to bring VoLTE through NSX to older phones or smartwatches, and the feature will be reserved for Pixel 11 devices and newer.
But if the voice quality meets our threshold, we will also give a chance (sic) to enable VoWiFi and VoNR to users through the NSX settings
- Google employee Taesoon Park
The NSX approach is also not a full replacement for VoLTE on supported networks and will result in what Google calls "minimum" connectivity — VoLTE and emergency calls over LTE.
If the quality on unsupported networks is good enough, though, Google might enable more features through the NSX settings. However, older Pixel phones won't be getting the workaround and people who travel a lot and own a Pixel phone won't be able to reap the benefits of the VoLTE connectivity feature.
Samsung and Apple already offers global VoLTE enabled by default
VoLTE is enabled by default on almost every new Samsung phone. | Image by QZX tech
Even though Google says the NSX approach will benefit other Android smartphone brands as well, Samsung already offers VoLTE globally and has it enabled by default. Apple, on the other hand, built VoLTE hardware capabilities into all devices starting with the iPhone 6 and later models. The feature is also enabled by default, so Google is catching up with this latest addition.
The company hasn't detailed the exact rollout schedule for this new feature, so we'll update this article with a timeline and more details when there's new information on the subject.
Read more about smartphone features and software updates here:
Mariyan, a tech enthusiast with a background in Nuclear Physics and Journalism, brings a unique perspective to PhoneArena. His childhood curiosity for gadgets evolved into a professional passion for technology, leading him to the role of Editor-in-Chief at PCWorld Bulgaria before joining PhoneArena. Mariyan's interests range from mainstream Android and iPhone debates to fringe technologies like graphene batteries and nanotechnology. Off-duty, he enjoys playing his electric guitar, practicing Japanese, and revisiting his love for video games and Haruki Murakami's works.
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