Um, why is the Google Pixel 6 $100 more on Verizon and AT&T?

(Prototype credit: Tom'south Guide)

Google officially lifted the veil off its new Pixel half dozen and Pixel 6 Pro smartphones today (Oct. 19). However, one detail that wasn't fully unveiled was the Pixel six's cost discrepancy. Google Pixel 6 preorders from the Google Store and T-Mobile get-go from $599.99 and $899.99 for the Pixel vi and Pixel 6 Pro, respectively.

However, preorders at Verizon beginning at $699.99 for the base model. Meanwhile, AT&T is charging a heftier $739.99 and $939.99 for Google's flagships. Sure, in that location are plenty of aggressive deals that help lower the prices, just if you're wondering why at that place'south such a dramatic toll deviation the answer is simple.

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In that location are multiple Pixel vi models available for preorder, equally explained by this Google nautical chart. The GB7N6 is the basic model ($599) with no millimeter-wave 5G support. It just offers Sub-6GHz support.

Meanwhile, the G9S9B offers mmWave support. This is the model sold by Verizon and AT&T, which explains why the Pixel six models for those carriers price more than the models at Google and T-Mobile. (All Pixel 6 Pro models sold in the U.S. get mmWave support.)

Sub-6GHz vs. mm-wave 5G

The 5G standard is comprised of low-, mid- and high-band spectrums. Every bit a consequence, 5G networks operate on different frequencies with Sub-6GHz and mmWave (xx-60GHz) at the low and loftier ends of the spectrum.

Although mmWave 5G offers exponentially faster speeds than Sub-6GHz 5G, it'southward more limited in terms of range. That means a phone with mmWave 5G support will need to be located somewhat close to a 5G tower to truly enjoy those faster speeds.

This may work in major metropolitan areas where there are multiple towers spread throughout the metropolis, but it's less of a possibility in rural areas. Because of that, mmWave 5G rollout has been irksome and it'southward available only in select cities.

Non certain which Pixel 6 is right for you? Make sure to cheque out our Google Pixel half-dozen review and Google Pixel 6 Pro review for our hands-on reviews of the new flagships.

As deals editor at Tom's Guide, Louis is constantly looking for ways to avoid paying full price for the latest gadgets. With over ten years of deals-hunting feel, Louis cost checks against multiple retailers and searches high and low for the best deals to bring readers. A born-and-bred New Yorker, Louis is also an avid swimmer and marathoner. His work has appeared on Gizmodo, CNET, and Time Out New York.