Even though we’ve seen Ultra-wideband (UWB) going mainstream a couple of years ago, there are still only a handful of Android smartphones that support it. Google offers UWB support on some Pixel smartphones, but you might be surprised that even one of its latest phones misses out on support for this communications protocol.
Ultra-wideband support on Google Pixel phones
At the time of this writing, only 3 Google Pixel phones support Ultra-wideband (UWB) in 2023. They are as follows:
- Google Pixel 6 Pro
- Google Pixel 7 Pro
- Google Pixel 8 Pro
As you can see from above, Google has kept UWB support exclusive to the ‘Pro’ grade smartphones from its Pixel lineup. So even the latest Google Pixel 8 misses out on UWB support. This is despite the Pixel 8 seeing a $100 price bump from the Pixel 7. Even the standard Galaxy S23 does not come with Ultra-wideband support. So Google isn’t the only OEM limiting the technology to its pricier flagships. But Apple takes the edge here, it offers UWB support on the iPhone 11 and later devices, excluding the iPhone SE models.
What is Ultra-wideband (UWB)?
Ultra-wideband (UWB) is a wireless communication protocol that operates through radio waves. It is a short-range communication standard that enables extremely precise location tracking. Devices equipped with UWB technology can efficiently transmit and receive data over short distances at remarkable speeds. These devices utilize ‘pulse-based’ radio waves, commonly employed for precise location measurement by calculating the time it takes for a radio pulse to travel between two separate devices. UWB technology’s primary appeal lies in its exceptional precision in determining location and direction.
The tracking capability of UWB is highly precise, enabling it to precisely identify an object’s location with an accuracy of just a few centimeters. Bluetooth, GPS, and other tracking methods are accurate too, but only down to a meter or two. UWB has a wide range of applications, including tracking the location of objects, secure car unlocking, and smart homes. UWB chips can be embedded within devices like smartphones and smartwatches, so you don’t even have to carry around a separate key fob like Apple’s AirTag.
Dwayne Cubbins
1037 Posts
My fascination with Android phones began the moment I got my hands on one. Since then, I've been on a journey to decode the ever-evolving tech landscape, fueled by a passion for both the "how" and the "why." Since 2018, I've been crafting content that empowers users and demystifies the tech world. From in-depth how-to guides that unlock your phone's potential to breaking news based on original research, I strive to make tech accessible and engaging.
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