The Google Pixel 7 range can consist of four models, if it gets FCC certification for some new Google smartphones (via MySmartPrice (Opens in a new tab)It is already for the next generation of Pixels.
The FCC certification is one of the last steps before the smartphone launches in the US, which means the Pixel 7 looks almost certain to debut in the fall. What the FCC also tells us through its certification lists is what kind of connectivity the phones have, giving us some insight into these upcoming phones.
According to these lists, there are four models in total. Two (GP4BC and GVU6C/G03Z5) only offer 5G connectivity below 6GHz, and the other two (GE2AE/GFE4J and GQML3) also have mmWave 5G.
It is believed that the reason why two of the models have two different codenames is because Google is giving Japan its own Pixel models. These phones are identical to the Pixel phones that the rest of the world is getting, but they add support for the FeliCa contactless card standard commonly used in Japan and other Asian countries.
Model numbers GP4BC and GE2AE/GFE4J also provide support for Ultra High Speed Band (UWB connection) depending on menus, enabling features such as sending data to nearby devices or unlocking compatible cars. These two units are likely to be the Pixel 7 Pro, since the Google Pixel 6 Pro also offered UWB. The regular Pixel 7 isn’t rumored to get this enhanced connectivity, just like the Pixel 6 before it.
The FCC analysis also confirms less surprising features of the four phones, such as wireless charging, Bluetooth, NFC and Wi-Fi 6E. Fortunately, the Pixel 7’s most exciting features have been made available by other rumors.
While there haven’t been any major changes to the camera hardware this year, Google has updated the rear camera bar design with a metal chassis that helps highlight the sensors on the back of both the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro. We expect both phones to use the second-generation Tensor chip as well, as well as downsizing the Pixel 7 from 6.4 inches to 6.3 inches.
We may see the Pixel 7 series debut on October 6, although all Google has said officially is that there will be an autumn release. Until then, keep an eye on our Google Pixel 7 hub for the latest information, as well as the Google Pixel Watch Center for details on Google’s other potential big announcement for the October product.