On the other hand, the update is comparatively simple for NSA networks,” explains Himanshu Tandon, Country Head of POCO India.Īirtel’s network has an advantage of wider compatibility. “For SA networks, the update is more complex that involves turning on the 5G modem component and updating default network preference to 5G to catch on to a 5G signal wherever available. Airtel has deployed the non-standalone (NSA) network, which adds 5G atop the existing 4G network. Reliance Jio’s 5G network is SA, which is a 5G network built from scratch. Some phones require a different software layer to enable standalone (SA) 5G technology, which is causing a delay. “We are actively working with the Indian carriers to enable functionality at the earliest,” a Google spokesperson said. The final release is expected in February. The latest test software, Android 13 QPR2 Beta 2, enables 5G on Pixel phones in India. Google earlier hinted at a December availability, but that has not worked out.

Google remains the last major phone brand yet to enable 5G services for its Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro and Pixel 6a phones.

Users will also have finer controls for standalone 5G, as well as data usage. Different network technologies are adding to the complication, but the Android ecosystem is largely up to date.Īpple’s iOS 16.2 update means Apple iPhone 12 and newer iPhones can finally use Reliance and Airtel’s iterations of 5G. Most have had success to varying degrees. In India, phone makers are releasing software updates for 5G-ready phones.

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