Pixel 8 Pro bought from Google

[firebirder]

No activation charge and the P6P can be used over WIFI without a sim and you can swap sims without a problem

+1. Though I believe if you take you 8 to VZW to do it for you, they will charge you. But if you just take the sim card out of your old phone, put it on the 8 and go through the steps, no fee.

You can switch your sim card back and forth, but it can be a pain. Your old phone will work over wifi, but can't make any calls. Everything else should work.

 

[hannsoft]

@hannsoft hope you don't mind if I post questions in your thread, relating to my nearly identical situation (on Verizon with a P6P and never had an unlocked phone before and just ordered the P8P unlocked from Google). I didn't want to start a new thread since our situations are basically identical and thought you might have similar questions.

Anyone:

Once I get my new P8P, does Verizon charge the $35 activation fee or is it different with an unlocked phone?

With the SIM card from my P6P in the new P8P, will I still be able to use my P6P for basically anything except calls? Not sure what a phone does without a SIM in place.

Can I put the SIM back in my P6P and use it for calls after activating (not sure if that's the right term for an unlocked phone) my new P8P?

Be my guest, and thanks for doing so, as you brought more info to us all!

 

[AndroidFanboy8]

Hi folks,

Looking forward to the 8s!

Question to those who've gotten past Pixels directly from Google. Does anything need to be done to have the phone run on Verizon? Is it just a matter of slipping my P6P's SIM card into the new phone?

TIA

Verizon has a special version with mmwave antenaes for their mmwave bands.i this j the reg NA version doesn't have the mmwave bands that's exclusive to Verizon hence the price difference for the V version.

 

[Jeremy8000]

Verizon has a special version with mmwave antenaes for their mmwave bands.i this j the reg NA version doesn't have the mmwave bands that's exclusive to Verizon hence the price difference for the V version.

That's historically accurate for the 'normal' Pixels, but the Pro models include them in the unlocked as well

 

[AndroidFanboy8]

That's historically accurate for the 'normal' Pixels, but the Pro models include them in the unlocked as well

No frikkin way!? AWESOME!.....Do ALL of the generative AI features come with the pro as well? And are your getting the watch 2 free as well?

 

[Jeremy8000]

No frikkin way!? AWESOME!.....Do ALL of the generative AI features come with the pro as well? And are your getting the watch 2 free as well?

The only thing the Pro model lacked over the 'regular' in the past was the flat screen, but it has that now

The Pro is intended to support enjoying all of the features showcased by Google, but it bears repeating that some of them are processed in the cloud - not directly performed onboard the device - and that any features not active at launch are 'planned' and most likely will come to fruition, but are not 'guaranteed.'

Yes, I'm getting the Watch 2 as part of the preorder, but already have the original Watch, and, being 100% satisfied with it and not seeing anything on the 2nd generation that would be particularly impactful as an upgrade, will probably just sell the Watch 2 to defray some of the upgrade cost.

 

[Davidoo]

"That's historically accurate for the 'normal' Pixels, but the Pro models include them in the unlocked as well."

That is not the case this year for the 8 Pro. If you buy unlocked you will NOT have access to any Verizon mmWave bands. That is important to me as I live in Phoenix and several shopping areas, airport and sports stadiums all have mmWave. I checked with Google and they verified in writing to me that the unlocked version they are selling does not get mmWave. It shows in the fine print when you order. For that reason, I bought from Verizon as the 8 Pro is the same price as on Google.

 

[srvctec]

"That's historically accurate for the 'normal' Pixels, but the Pro models include them in the unlocked as well."

That is not the case this year for the 8 Pro. If you buy unlocked you will NOT have access to any Verizon mmWave bands. That is important to me as I live in Phoenix and several shopping areas, airport and sports stadiums all have mmWave. I checked with Google and they verified in writing to me that the unlocked version they are selling does not get mmWave. It shows in the fine print when you order. For that reason, I bought from Verizon as the 8 Pro is the same price as on Google.

Thanks a bunch for this info! I was just going off all the other info here and you are correct. Here is a screenshot of the 8 Pro order page fine print:

It's right there in black and white.

I canceled my order for the unlocked version since it hadn't shipped yet and ordered from Google (to get the free watch) but chose the Verizon version instead of unlocked, just to future proof myself in case I need the mm Wave sometime down the road. I'll have to wait another day or two extra but that's no big deal.

 

[Jeremy8000]

Thanks a bunch for this info! I was just going off all the other info here and you are correct. Here is a screenshot of the 8Pro order page fine print:

View attachment 356603 It's right there in black and white.

I canceled my order since it hadn't shipped yet and will order from Google but choose the Verizon version instead unlocked, just to future proof myself in case I need the mm Wave sometime down the road.

Google needs to clarify this. I see where you pulled that directly from the Google Store, but while we're on that site...

Take a look at Google's P8 Tech Specs page under the NETWORK header, it lists different specs for two different models: one supports mmWave and one which does not.

Take a look at Google's P8 Pro Tech Specs page under the NETWORK header, it only lists one model, with mmWave being supported.

Someone responsible for writing/reviewing their fine print screwed up. Personally I think it is just one variation of the P8 Pro, as with last year, but can certainly understand reservations acting on that without confirmation.

------------------
Edit with followup

I just spoke with "Michael" at Google's support. He clarified that there was only one version of the Pixel 8 Pro, with mmWave, and two of the Pixel 8, one with and one without.

Footnote 2 indicating that "Unlocked Pixel phones (including phones with Google Fi as a carrier) are not compatible with millimeter wave (mmWave) networks" is erroneous in that it should have indicated an exception for Pro versions of the 7 and 8; he is escalating that to have it addressed.

So yes, if you are buying a normal Pixel 8 for use on VZ or AT&T and want mmWave, you absolutely will want to buy the carrier-specific model. If you are buying the Pixel 8 Pro, you are fine with the unlocked one.

 

[srvctec]

Google needs to clarify this. I see where you pulled that directly from the Google Store, but while we're on that site...

Take a look at Google's P8 Tech Specs page under the NETWORK header, it lists different specs for two different models: one supports mmWave and one which does not.

Take a look at Google's P8 Pro Tech Specs page under the NETWORK header, it only lists one model, with mmWave being supported.

Someone responsible for writing/reviewing their fine print screwed up. Personally I think it is just one variation of the P8 Pro, as with last year, but can certainly understand reservations acting on that without confirmation.

------------------
Edit with followup

I just spoke with "Michael" at Google's support. He clarified that there was only one version of the Pixel 8 Pro, with mmWave, and two of the Pixel 8, one with and one without.

Footnote 2 indicating that "Unlocked Pixel phones (including phones with Google Fi as a carrier) are not compatible with millimeter wave (mmWave) networks" is erroneous in that it should have indicated an exception for Pro versions of the 7 and 8; he is escalating that to have it addressed.

So yes, if you are buying a normal Pixel 8 for use on VZ or AT&T and want mmWave, you absolutely will want to buy the carrier-specific model. If you are buying the Pixel 8 Pro, you are fine with the unlocked one.

Well crap. I just canceled the unlocked for no reason then. This is ridiculous with all the different info out there. I just spent quite a bit of time over on Reddit trying to find info and it's all over the place with about 50% of people saying one thing or the other.

Edit:

And I just canceled the order for the Verizon P8P. I'm going to wait a day or two to order the unlocked again, if I even decide to.

 

[Jeremy8000]

Well crap. I just canceled the unlocked for no reason then. This is ridiculous with all the different info out there. I just spent quite a bit of time over on Reddit trying to find info and it's all over the place with about 50% of people saying one thing or the other.

Edit:

And I just canceled the order for the Verizon P8P. I'm going to wait a day or two to order the unlocked again, if I even decide to.

Yeah it's annoying... It's an honest mistake on their part, but there should be enough eyes on it to avoid such. Good news is, the promo for the free Watch runs through till the 16th, so you have a little time and can watch for some reviews, broader early impressions, and maybe visit a brick & mortar store to see one firsthand if you choose.

 

[Davidoo]

It would make sense if the 8Pro had mmWave for the ones sold in the US. I don't know who to believe as here is the chat I had with Google confirming the unlocked ones don't get mmWave. I didn't mean to steer anyone wrong as I had it in "writing" which I realize means very little coming from Google.

Chat transcript for case: 1-9948000035182
Oct 5, 1:49 PM (Pacific Time)

1:49:35 PM David joined the conversation
1:49:36 PM Rory: Rory joined the conversation
1:49:40 PM Rory: Hi David, welcome to Google Support! My name is Rory. In case you need to refer to this chat interaction in the future, the Chat ID for this interaction is 1-9948000035182. How are you today?
1:50:00 PM David: Just fine. Did you see my question?
1:51:02 PM Rory: Yes.
1:52:35 PM Rory: I understand that you want to know the available model of Pixel 8 pro.
1:53:37 PM David: There are a lot of confused people regarding your 8 Pro orders. In the past, all Pixel 6, and 7 Pros had the ability to receive mmWave bands. One of the disclaimers on your 8 Pro website says unlocked devices don't support mmWave. However, your tech spec pages show 2 models, one gets mmWave and one doesn't, so we want to know what model ships for the 8 Pro on your preorder page.
1:54:07 PM Rory: Please be assured, I'll assist you with this concern.
1:54:50 PM David: Thanks!
1:58:04 PM Rory: Pixel 8 pro model GC3VE is the unlocked model and the Pixel 8 pro model G1MNW is carrier locked.
1:59:28 PM David: That makes sense. Thank you. Since I do have mmWave available near me, I will need to buy from Verizon if I want to use it.
2:00:01 PM Rory: You're welcome.
2:00:31 PM Rory: Is there anything else I can help you with today?
2:00:43 PM David: No thanks.
2:01:04 PM Rory: A short survey will appear in this chat window. Please stay connected. We'd love to hear your feedback about our interaction today and overall experience with Google Support. Thanks for contacting Google.
2:01:09 PM Rory: Have a great day!
2:01:20 PM Rory: Rory left the conversation
2:01:20 PM Rory: Thanks for chatting! Let us know how we did:
2:01:20 PM Rory: Rory ended the conversation

 

[firebirder]

Honestly, I don't put much stock in the Google chat reps. I do remember hearing that the unlocked version of the 6P did not have access to the mmWave bands, but, again, dunno whether it is true. Had some issues with my 6p having weak signals occasionally, but whether the issue was it was unlocked, or had a weak antennae, VZW issues, or just a busy tower not sure. And the issues were always with data, so not a huge deal.

There is one place I had zero signal, but have always had that issue, as do most. I am going to try a trial of Fi next time I'm there, curious if that will make a difference.

 

[srvctec]

It would make sense if the 8Pro had mmWave for the ones sold in the US. I don't know who to believe as here is the chat I had with Google confirming the unlocked ones don't get mmWave. I didn't mean to steer anyone wrong as I had it in "writing" which I realize means very little coming from Google.

Chat transcript for case: 1-9948000035182
Oct 5, 1:49 PM (Pacific Time)

1:49:35 PM David joined the conversation
1:49:36 PM Rory: Rory joined the conversation
1:49:40 PM Rory: Hi David, welcome to Google Support! My name is Rory. In case you need to refer to this chat interaction in the future, the Chat ID for this interaction is 1-9948000035182. How are you today?
1:50:00 PM David: Just fine. Did you see my question?
1:51:02 PM Rory: Yes.
1:52:35 PM Rory: I understand that you want to know the available model of Pixel 8 pro.
1:53:37 PM David: There are a lot of confused people regarding your 8 Pro orders. In the past, all Pixel 6, and 7 Pros had the ability to receive mmWave bands. One of the disclaimers on your 8 Pro website says unlocked devices don't support mmWave. However, your tech spec pages show 2 models, one gets mmWave and one doesn't, so we want to know what model ships for the 8 Pro on your preorder page.
1:54:07 PM Rory: Please be assured, I'll assist you with this concern.
1:54:50 PM David: Thanks!
1:58:04 PM Rory: Pixel 8 pro model GC3VE is the unlocked model and the Pixel 8 pro model G1MNW is carrier locked.
1:59:28 PM David: That makes sense. Thank you. Since I do have mmWave available near me, I will need to buy from Verizon if I want to use it.
2:00:01 PM Rory: You're welcome.
2:00:31 PM Rory: Is there anything else I can help you with today?
2:00:43 PM David: No thanks.
2:01:04 PM Rory: A short survey will appear in this chat window. Please stay connected. We'd love to hear your feedback about our interaction today and overall experience with Google Support. Thanks for contacting Google.
2:01:09 PM Rory: Have a great day!
2:01:20 PM Rory: Rory left the conversation
2:01:20 PM Rory: Thanks for chatting! Let us know how we did:
2:01:20 PM Rory: Rory ended the conversation

It's not your fault Google can't be concise and accurate with their information. My knee-jerk reaction to cancel my order for the unlocked version was just in case it would ship while I was trying to figure out what to do.

I just ordered the unlocked again (with free watch) and will just live with it even if it doesn't have mmWave. I really wanted to try an unlocked phone since I never have before, AND I just hate to pay Verizon the stupid activation fee for their network specific phones.

 

[diesel97]

mmWave is way overrated

 

[Davidoo]

Not overrated for me. I get it at many shopping areas, sports venues and the airport in Phoenix. I was at the Indy 500 in May and got it with over 3gb/s speeds. My photos backed up in seconds while others had trouble just staying connected and making any calls or texts with 300,000 plus people in one place.

 

[srvctec]

Quick question for those in the know on an unlocked phone from Google and on Verizon.

Can I turn on my new phone without putting in the sim from my P6P, set it up over wifi and get all the updates first or do I have to have the sim in my new P8P when I first turn it on?

I'd like to get my new P8P set up like my P6P but do all that while still having my P6P for calls and such for a day or two of needed.

 

[dc52ltr]

Quick question for those in the know on an unlocked phone from Google and on Verizon.

Can I turn on my new phone without putting in the sim from my P6P, set it up over wifi and get all the updates first or do I have to have the sim in my new P8P when I first turn it on?

I'd like to get my new P8P set up like my P6P but do all that while still having my P6P for calls and such for a day or two of needed.

Did this with my 7 Pro, transferred all apps and files etc without putting my sim card in the 8 Pro... Just needed to connect to home Wi-Fi to download updates for apps etc.... Wanted to set up my new screen to be similar to my 7 Pro which had a few chrome shortcuts which don't transfer across like apps would.. HTH, David.

 

[srvctec]

Did this with my 7 Pro, transferred all apps and files etc without putting my sim card in the 8 Pro... Just needed to connect to home Wi-Fi to download updates for apps etc.... Wanted to set up my new screen to be similar to my 7 Pro which had a few chrome shortcuts which don't transfer across like apps would.. HTH, David.

Excellent and thanks!

 

[srvctec]

Another question. Verizon emailed me and said to complete Complete Device Swap. If I tap on link, my phone tries to open the My Verizon app but it doesn't. So I log into the app and it wants me to put in my IMEI number with phone make & model. If I do that and tap next, it says I can activate now with the eSIM in my phone instead of waiting for a physical SIM. If I choose next, then it wants my phone number.

BUT, while I'm logged into the app, it shows my current phone number that's on the SIM I put into my P8P from my P6P. I can make calls and guess receive them (not sure because I don't get many calls) make and receive text messages.

Do I need to do anything or not?

Screenshot of the email.