Google is gearing up to release its newest flagship phones, the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, on October 4th in New York City. As part of the preparations, Google recently visited the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to seek approval for different models of the upcoming Pixel handsets.
The FCC filing reveals that Google applied for approval for the following models: GKWS6, G9BQD, GZPF0, GPJ41, and G1MNW. Earlier this year, the GKWS6 model was spotted on the Wireless Power Consortium website, linked to a listing for the Pixel 8. According to the FCC documentation, the GZPF0 model shares the same internal hardware as the G9BQD, except for the components necessary for mmWave connectivity. The mmWave connectivity feature is designed to deliver high-band 5G signals, which offer incredibly fast download data speeds.
In addition, the Pixel 8 Pro models that were included in the FCC filing are GC3VE and G39DP. GC3VE is a variant without mmWave connectivity, while G39DP is a non-U.S. model of the Pixel 8 Pro. Another Pixel 8 Pro model mentioned is G1MNW. Notably, only the Pixel 8 Pro will come equipped with UWB (Ultra Wideband) capabilities. This feature provides more precise tracking information compared to Bluetooth when locating a lost item with a smart tracker attached.
It’s worth mentioning that Google plans to enhance its Find My Device feature, allowing it to utilize the location services of other Android devices for finding tagged items. This functionality is similar to Apple’s Find My app. However, the FCC filing indicates that UWB will only be available to Pixel 8 Pro users and not Pixel 8 users. Therefore, consumers should consider this factor when deciding between the two models.
Overall, Google has made progress with the regulatory process, with the FCC visit marking one more item checked off the company’s to-do list before the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro are officially released. Stay tuned for more updates on these highly anticipated smartphones from Google.
