Google Fi now switches between the best mobile networks automatically – how it works

ZDNET’s key takeaways

• Google Fi has new, free mobile data and Wi-Fi connection features.
• Both automatically connect to the fastest available options.
• They’re available on Pixel 9 and newer devices.

Google Fi wireless customers with Pixel phones just got a serious upgrade to their mobile and Wi-Fi connections for free.

Google has announced two new “super network” connection features for Fi Wireless: one that automatically switches between two of the largest 5G cellular networks, and another that automatically connects to premium Wi-Fi in millions of locations without you needing to log in.

Google Fi returns to an original feature

Here’s how the new mobile connection feature works: if your main connection slows or becomes unstable, Fi will automatically move to a secondary connection. This not only means you’ll have the fastest option when your connection is good, but you’ll have fewer dead zones when service is limited.

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The feature will run on MEP (Multiple Enabled Profiles) technology, which allows a single eSIM chip to host and run multiple SIM profiles simultaneously. Footnotes in Google’s release note that you’ll need to have “any non-Fi SIMs disabled.”

Google Fi originally offered automatic switching between two networks when the service debuted a decade ago, but it was between Sprint and T-Mobile, which merged in 2020. Google didn’t reveal what the “two of America’s best 5G cellular networks” were, but ZDNET has reached out to ask. The service usually runs on T-Mobile. Along with T-Mobile, the three biggest carriers are AT&T and Verizon, so it’s likely the second carrier is one of those.

Faster Wi-Fi automatically as well

In addition to a mobile connection upgrade, users are getting better Wi-Fi, too. Wi-Fi Auto Connect+ will automatically connect you to faster Wi-Fi in millions of locations like airports and malls (Google defines “faster” as two times better reliability and 30% improved latency compared to normal Google Fi cellular networks) without you having to log in or head to your settings. These connections will be automatically encrypted, Google said, keeping your online activity safe.

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This feature is also coming to Samsung phones running One UI 9 or higher and select modern Motorola phones.

Both of these features, Google explained, are available internationally and are included on Unlimited Premium and Flexible plans at no extra cost.

Artie Beaty

Contributing Writer

Artie Beaty is a freelance writer, based just outside Charlotte, with a passion for smart home tech and tech news. He has a bachelor's in journalism from UNC Charlotte and has been writing for over 15 years. On the weekends you'll find him leading haunted ghost tours of uptown Charlotte. See full bio