Google Pixel 7 series debuted back in 2022 with top-notch hardware, including a new Tensor G2 chip, improved cameras, better display, and a lot more. However, it is being reported that devices fall short in 5G connectivity. According to a report, the Pixel 7 and 7 Pro models only support 5G Release 15, the initial 3GPP standard, instead of the latest 5G standard. Let’s look at the details.

The 3GPP, an engineering organization that develops protocols for mobile telecommunications, is responsible for deriving standards for 5G connectivity. These standards are made available as “releases”. Back in 2018, the organization launched Release 15 as the first 5G standard, which was followed by Release 16 in 2020. Now, as per a 9to5Google report, the latest Pixel 7 models are still on the older 3GPP Release 15.

Google-pixel-7-Pro

Other major flagships, such as the latest Galaxy S23 series, can support the newer Release 16. The Release 16 supports the Snapdragon X65 and last year’s X70 modem. According to Qualcomm, Release 16 brings a number of enhancements to the foundational aspects of the 5G system, in terms of coverage, capacity, latency, power, mobility, reliability, ease of deployment, and more.

According to Samsung, the Exynos 5300 modem included in Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro phones is capable of supporting Release 16. Therefore, it is reasonable to expect that these smartphones will receive support for the latest 5G standard with the upcoming Android 14 release later this year.

It’s important to keep in mind that 5G Release 17 has already been launched, announced in July 2022. Furthermore, the upcoming Release 18 is expected to arrive sometime in 2024. Qualcomm has recently announced the Snapdragon X75, which includes support for both 5G Release 17 and 18, just earlier this month.

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