Republic Wireless hops on to support Google Pixel and Pixel XL
The carrier says Google's new pair of handsets will be compatible with its Wi-Fi hybrid network.
Google on October 4 unveiled its Pixel and Pixel XL phones, which are the first handsets to support the company's robust and conversational Assistant search feature.
Though Verizon Wireless will be the only carrier to sell the devices, you can also buy it unlocked from Google. In addition to being compatible with GSM and CDMA networks, the devices work with carriers that use Wi-Fi networks first or by default. This includes Google's own Project Fi and Republic Wireless, a startup that says users can activate the Pixel phones as part of its Bring Your Own Phone program.
Currently, there are 12 phones that are compatible with Republic Wireless' network. With the addition of the two Pixel handsets, the carrier's lineup expands to keep up with Google's newest phones, which ship with the latest Android 7.1 Nougat operating system.
Because Republic Wireless prioritizes local Wi-Fi networks to patch through calls and send text messages (and then fall back on Sprint and T-Mobile's networks whenever Wi-Fi isn't available), customers can usually save money by cutting down on data costs. For more information, check out CNET's FAQ on Wi-Fi calling.
