Android 10 brings Dual SIM Dual Standby support to Pixel 3a and Pixel 3a XL

The Android 10 stable update has arrived for Pixel smartphones and has activated a new feature for the Pixel 3a and Pixel 3a XL. First spotted by 9to5 Google, both phones have gained Dual SIM Dual Standby (DSDS) functionality with Android 10. The feature lets your smartphone make use of both the eSIM and physical SIM simultaneously.

DSDS support was announced for the flagship Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL smartphones earlier during the Android Q Beta, but was later rolled back by Google.

With Dual SIM Dual Standby, the Pixel 3a and Pixel 3a XL become the only phones in the Pixel series to support the functionality. It enables users to make and receive calls from both the eSIM and the physical SIM simultaneously. Dual signal bars at the top right corner of your display give you a visual indication for the two SIM cards in use.

How to activate Dual SIM Dual Standby on Pixel 3a, Pixel 3a XL?

It is advisable to check for eSIM support with your carrier before activating DSDS on your Pixel 3a phones. Google says only a few carriers currently support the functionality. Pixel 3a series devices purchased from Japan do not support dual SIMs.

If you have set up an eSIM with your carrier, follow the instructions below to add it to your phone.

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Tap Network & internet.
3. Next go to “Mobile network,” and tap +.
4. Tap “Don’t have a SIM card?” > Next.
5. When you see the prompt, “Use 2 numbers?” tap Continue.
6. Tap Restart.
7. After your phone restarts, open the Settings app again.
8. Tap Network & internet > Mobile network.
9. To set call and text preferences, tap your networks.

If you want a prompt for network preference every time you make a phone call or text, tap the “Ask me every time” option. You can also check out Google’s guide to setting up SIM preferences here.

Dual SIM support is a handy option to have while traveling and allows you to retain your primary SIM card and a local SIM card for cheaper data. It also remains a very popular feature in emerging markets like India, and support for Dual SIM support on the Pixel 3a should make the phone a bit more appealing to potential buyers.