Home > Smartphone

Is the Pixel 8 Dual-SIM? In short, yes

Will the Pixel 8 end up being a Dual-SIM device?
Last Updated on October 5, 2023
Is the Pixel 8 Dual-SIM? Image shows the text "Is the Pixel 8 Dual-SIM?" next to the Pixel 8 and two white SIM cards, on a purple gradient background.
PC Guide is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Read More
You can trust PC Guide: Our team of experts use a combination of independent consumer research, in-depth testing where appropriate - which will be flagged as such, and market analysis when recommending products, software and services. Find out how we test here.

The launch of the Google Pixel 8 is finally, and the rumors and leaks about the device are being replaced with official information from Google. One of the most debated topics surrounding the Pixel 8 is whether it will support Dual-SIM functionality. In this article, we’ll explore the latest information to determine if the Google Pixel 8 will indeed be a Dual-SIM smartphone, or if it’s ditched the SIM card slot altogether. So, let’s dive in and find out!

Is the Pixel 8 a Dual-SIM phone?

Yes, the Pixel 8 will support Dual-SIM compatibility. The official specs for the Pixel 8 from the Google Store list that the phone will be Dual-SIM compatible for the use of both a single nano-SIM and eSIM.

Initially, leaked renders of the Pixel 8 seemed to suggest that the device might eSIM only due to an apparent lack of a SIM card slot. However, contrary to these earlier rumors, the Pixel 8 will not be eSIM-only, but will retain the physical SIM card tray. The SIM tray will be located on the left edge of the device, just like its predecessors. This is great news for users who prefer the flexibility of using physical SIM cards. Previous Pixel models, including the Pixel 7 and Pixel 6a also support Dual-SIM.


Top 5 Cyber Monday deals

This year's Cyber Monday has officially kickstarted, offering up huge discounts on some of the market's leading tech products. Below, we'll list the best Cyber Monday deals we can find.

Prices and savings subject to change. Click through to get the current deal prices.


What is the purpose of dual-SIM?

Before investing in a new smartphone device, it’s important to understand what dual-SIM functionality actually means. Dual-SIM simply refers to a feature that allows a smartphone to support two SIM cards simultaneously. This feature is especially useful for people who want to use two separate phone numbers or take advantage of different carrier plans for better coverage or cost savings. Here are some of the main benefits of having dual-SIM capability:

  • Use one SIM for personal calls and one for business calls: you can separate work and personal calls and data by using the two different SIMs in the same phone.
  • Have SIMs from two different carriers: some people use dual-SIM to get coverage from two different mobile networks or to get cheaper data rates when roaming.
  • Easier switching between carriers: when you want to switch phone networks, have a dual-SIM phone makes it easier because you can have both old and new SIMs active during the transition.
  • Travel convenience: having two SIMs while traveling internationally allows you to have a local data SIM and your regular SIM for calling or texting.
  • Backup SIM: a second SIM can act as a backup in case your primary SIM has issues, and you can swap between them when needed.

Overall, the core advantage is the ability to have two phone numbers in one device. This provides flexibility and convenience that a single-SIM phone can’t offer.

Final thoughts

So there you have it – the Pixel 8 will be a Dual-SIM device, similar to its predecessors the Pixel 7 and Pixel 6, which can bring lots of benefits and conveniences to your smartphone experience. As well as weighing in on the SIM compatability of the Pixel 8, we’ve also been exploring its other features such as its size and weight, and the Pixel 8 battery life now that it’s finally been officially launched.

Marla writes across a wide range of topics across PC Guide, including AI, PC hardware, and news on the latest tech releases. She's a passionate writer that's interested in the future of technology.