Google Fi's new Super Network brings automatic 5G switching, Pixel deals, and more

Most of us choose a mobile carrier based on its coverage, data speeds, and pricing. But even the best networks have their weak spots, and there’s usually not much you can do when your phone struggles to find a decent signal. What if your phone could connect to another carrier whenever that happens?

That’s exactly what Google Fi is trying to do with its new Google Fi Super Network. The service is bringing back automatic network switching, giving supported phones access to two major US 5G networks instead of relying on just one.

Bad signal? Your phone can switch sides

The switch only happens when there’s a noticeable difference in network quality, so your phone won’t constantly jump between the two. You’ll also get priority data speeds on both networks, including support for Ultra Wideband. Interestingly, Google isn’t revealing which carriers it’s partnering with.

There are a few catches, though. For now, the feature is limited to Pixel 9 and newer phones using Google Fi on eSIM, with no other SIM active. If you’re using a physical SIM, you’re out of luck. Support for more phones is planned for 2027.

But what happens when you’re somewhere crowded, like an airport or a shopping mall, where even mobile networks can struggle? Google has something for that, too. It’s expanding Wi-Fi Auto Connect+ (W+), a feature that automatically connects your phone to supported Wi-Fi networks without requiring passwords or sign-in pages.

According to Google, these Wi-Fi connections are twice as reliable and have 30% lower latency compared to using cellular alone. They’re also encrypted, and the data you use through W+ won’t eat into your high-speed allowance on unlimited plans. The feature is already available on supported Pixel phones and will start rolling out to select Samsung Galaxy and Motorola devices next week.

And if you frequently travel abroad, Google Fi also offers international coverage in more than 200 destinations, with access to multiple network partners where available.

An AI assistant and some Pixel perks? Yes, please

Alongside the network improvements, Google is also making it easier to get help when something goes wrong. An AI assistant called Ask Fi is built into the Google Fi app and can answer questions about your account without making you search through support pages.

For instance, if you’re planning a trip abroad and want to check whether your plan covers international data, you can just ask the assistant. And if you’d rather speak to a real person, human support is still available.

Another addition to the app is Your super network, which gives you a closer look at how your phone stays connected. You can check which network you’re currently using, see when your phone switched networks, and get an idea of your connection quality.

Google is also throwing in a few offers to make switching to Fi more appealing. New customers can get up to $899 back on a Pixel 11 series phone, with $500 taken off immediately and the remaining $399 returned through monthly credits over two years. The promotion also includes $10 off the Unlimited Premium plan every month for 24 months.

If you already have a Pixel and don’t want to upgrade, there’s something for you, too. Eligible customers who bring their existing phone to Fi can get 50% off Unlimited Standard or Unlimited Essentials for a year. All offers are subject to eligibility requirements.

Personally, I think automatic network switching is the biggest reason to pay attention to this announcement. We often talk about how fast 5G has become, but speed doesn’t help much when your phone struggles to stay connected. Being able to switch to a better network without even thinking about it could make a noticeable difference, especially if you travel or commute regularly.