Affiliate links on Android Authority may earn us a commission.Learn more.
Pixel and Pixel XL bought from Google Store can use Verizon’s Wi-Fi Calling and HD Voice
June 19, 2025
People who purchase theAndroid 7.1 Nougat-basedPixel and Pixel XL smartphonesdirectly from the Google Store and then decide to useVerizon’snetwork will still be able to access two of the carrier’s big features.
According to what both Google and Verizon have toldAndroid Police, unlocked Pixel phones from the Google Store will be able to utilize both Wi-Fi Calling and HD Voice features when they are using Verizon’s network. That also includes Pixel phones that are purchased viaGoogle’s Project Fi service.
Verizon and Google have already confirmed that any Android system and security updates for the Pixel phoneswill be released simultaneouslyfor both Verizon and unlocked Google Store owners of those products. The upshot of all of this is that Google Store buyers can get a fully unlocked Pixel phone, use it on Verizon and still get all of the carrier’s features. It will also still get quick updates from Google, but withoutthe carrier’s unlockable bootloader.
If you decide to buy the Pixel phones from Verizon that also means three of the carrier’s bloatware apps will bepre-installed on those devices, although Verizon has also confirmed they can be deleted at any time, so there’s that.
So if you want to stick with Verizon but also want to be free of all the carrier’s bloatware out of the box, you really should getthe Pixel phone from the Google Store. Are the Wi-Fi Calling and HD Voice features big enough to influence your decision to use the unlocked Pixel phones on Verizon’s network? Would you rather buy the unlocked Pixel phones to use on another carrier instead?
Thank you for being part of our community. Read ourComment Policybefore posting.
