Google Fi said on Nov. 10 that a new "super network" can switch a phone between two 5G networks automatically. It is rolling out starting that day, and it needs a Pixel 9 or newer.

What changed

Google says Fi now moves your phone to a second data connection if the first one drops. It describes the two as "two of America's fastest 5G networks." The post does not name them.

The switch uses MEP, which lets one eSIM (a phone's built-in digital SIM) run more than one carrier profile at once. Google also added Wi-Fi Auto Connect+, which joins Wi-Fi without settings or a login. Fi encrypts that connection through its Virtual Carrier Network. Google also added "Ask Fi," an AI support agent in the Fi app.

Who is affected

Network switching needs a Pixel 9 or newer, with Fi active on an eSIM and any non-Fi SIMs turned off. Google's post lists it as included in the Unlimited Premium and Flexible plans at no extra cost, though another line says every Fi plan includes access, so check your plan.

Wi-Fi Auto Connect+ works on a Pixel 5a or newer. Google says it is rolling out to select Samsung phones on One UI 9 or higher and select modern Motorola phones, in select places in North America, Europe, Asia and Brazil.

Abroad and offers

Google says both features work abroad at no extra cost. High-speed data is capped at 50 GB per person on Unlimited Premium and 15 GB on Flexible, then 256 kbps. Google says it is not meant for use abroad over 90 consecutive days.

New subscribers get $500 off a Pixel 11 Pro, $599 back over 24 monthly credits and a $10-a-month service credit for two years on Unlimited Premium. That ends Nov. 18. Pixel owners not on Fi get 50% off select unlimited plans for 12 months, ending Dec. 1. Terms apply.

Google's claims

Google says that unlike other major carriers, only Fi "automatically switches you between the networks in real time," and that it has the fastest speeds and widest coverage in the US. It cites Ookla and RootMetrics data, and says the RootMetrics report is not an endorsement. These are Google's claims. We did not test them.

Which networks

The Verge reports a Google Fi manager declined to name the networks. It adds that Fi's FAQ says its coverage currently comes through T-Mobile. Engadget says Google is not disclosing the carriers. Google's post names none.

What is not known

Google's post does not name the networks, give base plan prices, give an exact Wi-Fi location count (it says "millions") or mention iPhones. We found no word on Pixel 8 and older for network switching.

What this means for you

If you have a Pixel 9 or newer on Fi, check that Fi is on an eSIM and no other SIM is active. Check that your plan is Unlimited Premium or Flexible. On a Pixel 5a or newer, you can still try Wi-Fi Auto Connect+. If you buy for the offer, mind the Nov. 18 date. More in mobile.

If you need a Pixel 9, see our refurbished price story.

What we checked

We read Google's Nov. 10 post, plus three outlet reports, on Nov. 10. We did not test the feature or the Wi-Fi network.