The Google Pixel 11, which was recently shown off at this month’s Made By Google event, has the ability to support true Duel Sim Dual Active (DSDA), which allows you to use two SIMs simultaneously.
However, a recent post to the r/GooglePixel11Series subreddit has revealed that the DSDA system isn’t available in Canada for the Pixel 11, and devices are only available with Dual Sim Dual Standby (DSDS) instead.
Now, DSDA works by allowing both lines to use both voice and data simultaneously. This essentially allows you to talk on one line, while using the other line’s data. This is handy for users who may have both a work and personal line.
DSDS, on the other hand, makes one line temporarily unavailable while the other one is active. Lucky Mobile described it as, “Both lines can support data plans; however, one number at a time can use cellular data,” according to a FAQ page.
Now, carrier FAQs (like Fido’s) on dual SIM point out that only one data network at a time can be active, while both networks can send and receive messages at the same time.
The Reddit post also pointed out that a workaround would be to have two SIM lines on two separate networks (Bell and Rogers, for example), if you want some semblance of DSDA capability.
Honestly, as the Reddit post pointed out, most people won’t need to worry about this. It’ll mainly affect some travellers that use dual SIM, and people who have both a work and personal lines on the same phone. Still, it’s frustrating for some that a feature like this won’t work in Canada.
Header image credit: Google
