Pixel 2 and eSIM?

[bobpullen]

Just read the latest spec leaks on the new line of Google Pixel handsets due to be released next week.

Of particular interest is the inclusion of an eSIM:

I recognise that it's early days, and the eSIM feature may end up based on the geographical area of purchase, but this has me a tad worried.

Assuming the device operates exclusively with an eSIM, and is unable to accomodate a traditional SIM, then does this exclude Vodafone as a compatible carrier?

Reading this thread about the cellular Apple Watch suggests this might be the case.

I'm considering pre-ording the new Pixel from the Google Store when it's announced, but if this is going to involve me having to change carrier to use it, then I may have to re-evaluate the situation before I part with any cash.

[hrym]

I would think that would have to be location-based.   Do any UK carriers support eSIM yet?  If not, it would massively restrict where the device can effectively be sold.   Wait for the official announcement, and possibly even for the device to be available in the UK (is that likely to be later?)

[bobpullen]

If last year's anythign to go by, the device will be available for pre-order in the UK from day zero.

When I mentioned geographical location I was thinking more along the lines of Google shipping eSIM devices only to compatible markets i.e. a purchase from the US Google Store gets an eSIM model, whilst a purchase from the UK store gets a standard SIM-compatible version.

You're right though, time will tell.

EE support eSIM for the new LTE Apple Watch. No idea if they support it for externally sourced devices though.

[hrym]

That's what I was thinking, too - eSIM only for compatible markets.   And, yes, I found the bit about EE after I'd posted.   They often go for initial exclusivity, so appear to have invested in eSIM before it's a big thing here.  It's one of those chicken-and-egg things - devices won't come to the market until they're supported and they won't be supported until they come to the market.   It'll resolve somehow - these things always do.   In the meantime, order a Pixel2 with care!

[Dandle]

Well its been released by Google and its deffinately my next phone https://www.dxomark.com score of 98 is pretty epic. It aslo ticks the boxes for me with pure android, front facing speakers and great camera.

I wonder if Voda will stock it? if not I'm out of contract next month so will be leaving.

[bobpullen]

Pre-ordered the XL in just black with a free Google Mini. Discussion on Reddit and some of the images from subsequent leaks suggests that it will have a traditional SIM slot. I was tempted to stick to the standard Pixel again (that's what I did last year), but the bezels were too much of a differentiator this time round. I just hope LG have created as reliable device as HTC did last year - by far the best smartphone I've ever owned.