Verizon and the Pixel 4a 5g

[harleystaug]

I'm on Verizon and I want a Pixel 4a 5G, but having a difficult time paying the extra 100 for the Verizon version considering that I don't care about 5G. Can I grab an unlocked version and flash the Verizon firmware? I'd like to have WiFi Calling and the only way to get it is to have Verizon's firmware. Now, I know I could do this with a Pixel 5, but my understanding is that the Verizon 4a 5G has a different antenna. I went and looked at both at the Verizon store yesterday thinking that I wanted a Pixel 5, but just felt a little too small for my liking. Thanks!!!

 

[Rukbat]

You can use an unlocked version of the 4a 5G, but the plain 4a doesn't have the 5G bands (77, 78) or the mmWave radio(s) at all. (I don't know if an unlocked 4a 5G is any cheaper than the Verizon model.)

 

[bkdodger2]

I thought wifi calling was good with Pixel unlocked.. I would definitely save the extra cash and get the unlocked.. Plus you can unlock the bootloader..

 

[SmoovC]

WiFi calling is in fact available on Verizon with an unlocked (non UW) 4a 5G. It is $100 cheaper, and does not have mmWave.

 

[swebb]

WiFi calling works on my unlocked P5 with one of VZs' MVNO partners, so it will work on an unlocked P4a 5g. VOLTE also.

 

[bkdodger2]

Thanks for confirming y'all...

 

[sulla1965]

Yeah the unlocked 4a 5g will get wifi calling and volte right out of the box. Yes the Verizon version is $100 more at $599 as opposed to $499 unlocked. Verizon exclusively offers the white variant if that matters to anyone.

 

[bkdodger2]

Yeah the unlocked 4a 5g will get wifi calling and volte right out of the box. Yes the Verizon version is $100 more at $599 as opposed to $499 unlocked. Verizon exclusively offers the a white variant if that matters to anyone.

That white has a better look for sure but not worth the extra cash unless you getting a good deal from Verizon on trade in or new line...