TL;DR
- Google is rolling out a new, unexpected update for the Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL.
- The phones are now getting VoLTE roaming support so they can continue making calls.
Google has released an unexpected update for the Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL.
The two flagships launched in 2018 and were supposed to get their final update in October 2021. However, Google pushed out another update to the phones in February this year which included the security patch for the month. Now, in what may be the absolutely last update for the phones, Google has given them VoLTE (Voice over LTE) roaming abilities.
While it’s a small update, with nothing more to offer other than VoLTE roaming support, it’s an important one for those still holding on to the aged flagships.
Why is the Pixel 3 series update important?
Carriers are currently in the process of phasing out 2G and 3G networks in the US. As the old tech sunsets, Google’s new update will give the Pixel 3 phones the option to make calls over LTE and save them from becoming redundant.
The company previously detailed that phones that don’t support VoLTE or VoLTE roaming may lose voice calling services, including calls to 911, or connectivity when the 3G networks are shut down. So if you want to keep using your Pixel 3 or 3 XL to make calls, you should get the latest update.
Google confirmed the update in the following statement to 9to5Google:
In June 2022, Google released a software update that enabled VoLTE roaming for many U.S. and global carriers. This allows many Pixel devices to roam in the U.S. with VoLTE, if your carrier supports VoLTE roaming. Contact your carrier for more information.
If you’re interested in getting the latest builds, you can download them from the links below.
