Google Pixel 6 is a year behind other flagships – here’s how

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Google Pixel 6 and Google Pixel 6 Pro are looking to be impressive devices at competitive prices, from the new Tensor chip to their advanced cameras. Unfortunately, compared to other flagship phones like the iPhone 13 and Samsung Galaxy S21, Google is lagging behind in one key area: 5G.

According to a report from PCMag, the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro use Samsung’s Exynos 5123 modem along with Google’s custom Tensor processor. This is the same modem used in last year’s international version of the Samsung Galaxy S20. While this may not seem like a big deal, considering how quickly 5G technology is evolving, it actually puts Pixel at a significant disadvantage over the competition.

When they lose $ 600-900 on a phone, consumers usually want the latest technology to ensure their purchase lasts as long as possible. When it comes to 5G modems, having this year’s chip means getting faster and more consistent 5G speeds for the next three to five years.

The Exynos 5123 modem is almost on par with Qualcomm’s X55 modem found on the iPhone 12 and the US version of the Galaxy S20, according to PCMag. The iPhone 13 and the US version of the Galaxy S21 use Qualcomm’s X60 5G modem.

Old 5G modem put to the test

We did an unscientific comparison of the iPhone 12 and iPhone 13 on T-Mobile’s 5G network in central New Jersey. Our simple test, performed via Ookla’s Speed ​​Test app, gave the iPhone 12 an average download speed of 32.72 Mbps, while the iPhone 13 stopped at 58.26 Mbps. This is a noticeable improvement in 5G performance.

Upload speeds were mediocre on both the iPhone 12 and iPhone 13, averaging 4.07 and 7.55 Mbps respectively. But it shows that the latest Qualcomm X60, plus other antenna-related optimizations, can make a difference. substantial.

If the Exynos 5123 modem is a good approximation of performance with the Qualcomm X55, Pixel 6 owners will face significantly lower 5G speeds. Obviously firmware, local networks and internal antennas can make a big difference. It’s just something for potential Pixel 6 buyers to be aware of.

I was personally using the US version of the Galaxy S20 FE, which also had Qualcomm’s X55 modem. And on T-Mobile’s 5G network here in Houston, I found the experience frustrating. Speeds were often so slow and inconsistent. I ended up locking my phone to 4G LTE for better overall performance. I have since moved to the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3.

Interestingly, during Google’s Pixel 6 event, it did little to showcase the device’s connectivity features. We did not receive Stadia 5G demos or any other bits that could show the phones’ Wi-Fi 6E performance. Google was more interested in showing off its Material You UI design that will ship with Android 12.

The Google Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro will go on sale October 28 for $ 599 and $ 899 respectively. Don’t expect blazing 5G in exchange for those lower prices.

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