Google Pixel 6a FCC Clearance Reveals Special AT&T Powers
The two models of the upcoming Google Pixel 6a cleared by the FCC will have hardware support for the 3.45-3.55GHz 5G spectrum AT&T is using to boost its 5G network, FCC documents show.
The FCC clearances, which according to Phone Scoop went through on April 11, portend a launch sometime in the next month or two. They're for four different device IDs, but the documents explain there are two primary models: a "parent model" with millimeter-wave 5G, and a "variant model" without.
The millimeter-wave 5G model, coded as GB62Z, has the high-band frequencies for all of the US carriers. It's most likely going to be sold by Verizon, though. According to Wave7 Research, Google has been pushing Pixel sales in at least some Verizon dealers with high "spiffs" or kickbacks to salespeople willing to sell the product.
Both models' test reports also specifically call out 3450-3550MHz as a frequency tested, making them ready for the dual-band C-band 5G network AT&T intends to roll out later this year. Along with that, they have an array of other key 4G and 5G bands, including everything currently used by Verizon and T-Mobile (but not Dish's special Band 70).
At the moment, the only other line of phones that AT&T has said will work on 3.45GHz is the Samsung Galaxy S22 line. The big question is whether, and when, AT&T will decide to certify the Pixel 6a for 3.45GHz. If AT&T just decides to say no, the Pixel 6a's capabilities could go unused.
The Pixel 6a was previously leaked through, of all things, a coloring book.
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