Google Fi Wireless is expanding its connectivity capabilities with a new super network that automatically switches between two 5G cellular networks and millions of Wi-Fi hotspots. The goal is straightforward: keep customers connected to the strongest available connection without requiring them to manually switch networks or hunt for public Wi-Fi.

Announced on November 10, the new super network combines access to two 5G cellular networks with Google’s Wi-Fi Auto Connect+ technology. Google says the system can move between cellular networks in real time when a primary connection becomes unavailable, helping customers maintain connectivity in places where coverage can be inconsistent.

The upgrade is included with every Google Fi plan at no additional cost, although device compatibility and plan requirements apply to individual features.

Google Fi can now switch between two 5G networks

The biggest change is Google’s new automatic dual-network switching technology. Starting November 10, eligible Google Pixel phones can access two 5G cellular networks through Google Fi, with the service automatically moving between them depending on network availability.

Unlike traditional carrier switching, which generally requires users to select a different network manually, Google’s system can maintain connections to multiple carrier networks simultaneously through Multiple Enabled Profiles (MEP) technology.

When the primary cellular connection drops or becomes unreliable, Google Fi can move the phone’s data connection to a secondary network. This could be particularly useful when traveling along highways, driving through rural areas, or moving between locations where one carrier has weaker coverage than another.

Google says the feature is rolling out to Pixel 9 and newer devices. However, there are some important requirements: Google Fi must be active through eSIM, and other non-Fi SIM profiles must be disabled. Network switching and 5G availability also depend on location, signal strength, device capabilities, and other conditions.

Google is positioning this as a major advantage over other wireless providers, arguing that customers should not have to depend on a single cellular network to stay connected.

Millions of Wi-Fi hotspots join the network

Cellular connectivity is only one part of Google’s new super network. The company is also expanding Wi-Fi Auto Connect+, which automatically connects compatible devices to high-quality Wi-Fi networks in millions of locations.

This feature is particularly relevant in crowded indoor environments, including airports, shopping malls, and other public spaces where cellular networks can become congested.

Instead of searching for available Wi-Fi networks, opening settings, and entering passwords, compatible phones can connect automatically when they encounter supported hotspots.

Google also emphasizes security. Connections through Wi-Fi Auto Connect+ are automatically encrypted using its Fi Virtual Carrier Network (VCN), helping protect users’ online activity when accessing participating Wi-Fi networks.

The feature is available on Pixel 5a and newer devices in supported locations across North America, Europe, Asia, and Brazil. Google is also rolling it out to select Samsung phones running One UI 9 or later and compatible Motorola smartphones.

According to Google, its Wi-Fi connections offer two times better reliability and 30% improved latency compared with nearby Google Fi cellular networks under its stated performance comparison.

International connectivity is included

Google Fi’s super network is not limited to the United States. Both cellular network switching and Wi-Fi Auto Connect+ are available internationally, allowing customers to benefit from the connectivity features while traveling abroad.

However, international data allowances depend on the plan.

Google includes the new connectivity features at no additional cost with its Unlimited Premium and Flexible plans. Unlimited Premium includes up to 50GB of high-speed international data per person, while Flexible provides up to 15GB per person before speeds are reduced to 256Kbps.

International usage is subject to Google’s existing roaming policies, including a restriction on continuous international use beyond 90 consecutive days.

Ask Fi brings AI-powered customer support

Alongside the network improvements, Google is introducing Ask Fi, a new AI-powered support agent integrated directly into the Google Fi app.

Customers can use Ask Fi to get help with account-related questions, billing, and connectivity troubleshooting. Rather than navigating support pages or waiting for assistance, users can ask questions and receive answers directly within the app.

The addition gives Google Fi another way to bring its AI technology into its wireless service, although the network upgrades remain the main attraction of this announcement.

Google’s new super network makes its wireless service more interesting by combining multiple cellular networks with automatically secured Wi-Fi access. For customers using compatible Pixel phones, the ability to switch between two 5G networks without manually changing carriers could make a noticeable difference in areas where coverage is inconsistent.