T-Mobile 5G Advanced Leaves Pixel 9 Users Behind

Why this matters: Pixel 9 users won't be able to take advantage of the latest network enhancements, potentially impacting their experience with advanced applications.

T-Mobile’s 5G Advanced network represents the next evolution in 5G technology, similar to how LTE Advanced improved upon standard LTE. It combines features from 3GPP Releases 17 and 18, enhancing carrier aggregation, performance in crowded areas, and power efficiency.

The network operates on T-Mobile’s standalone 5G infrastructure, allowing for quicker software updates and seamless integration of new technologies. However, the Exynos 5400 modem in the Pixel 9 does not support Release 18, preventing users from accessing these improvements.

Devices with Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 or 8 Gen 3 Elite chipsets, such as the Samsung Galaxy S25 series and OnePlus 13, are fully compatible with T-Mobile’s upgraded network.

How to Prepare:

Who This Affects Most:

It's the next evolution of 5G, offering faster speeds, lower latency, and improved efficiency.

The Pixel 9's Exynos 5400 modem doesn't support the 3GPP Release 18 standard required for 5G Advanced.

Devices with Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 or 8 Gen 3 Elite chipsets, like the Samsung Galaxy S25 series and OnePlus 13.

Do you think this trend of modem incompatibility will continue? Let us know!

Share this article with others who need to stay ahead of this trend!