Why Google Pixel Doesn’t Support Direct Video Calls Without Internet
If you’re wondering why Google Pixel phones don’t allow direct video calls over the cellular network (without internet), it comes down to a few key reasons. Unlike some Android phones that support carrier-based video calling, Google Pixel relies on internet-based apps like Google Meet, WhatsApp, and Telegram for video communication.
But why? Let’s break it down.
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1. Android's Open Ecosystem – No Universal Standard
In contrast to Apple's FaceTime, which is only available on iPhones, Android is used on thousands of devices from various manufacturers. Due to this variety, there is no one native video calling standard that is compatible with all Android phones without the internet.
A few carriers, such as Samsung and OnePlus, ship carrier video calling in their dialers, but Google Pixel does not. Google, instead, concentrates on apps that are internet based and support all devices.
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2. Carrier-Based Video Calling Is Not Universal
A few cellular carriers (such as Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile) include built-in video calling over LTE (VoLTE), but these capabilities rely on:
Whether the two callers are on the same carrier.
Whether the carrier supports video calling on Pixel handsets.
Whether the phone's software contains carrier-specific features (Pixel phones run a stock Android experience, which does not contain additional carrier features).
As these restrictions would render built-in video calling unstable, Google leaves video calls to internet-based applications.
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3. Google Meet Is the Preferred Video Calling App
Google previously had Google Duo, which supported video calls using mobile data or Wi-Fi. In 2022, Google incorporated Duo into Google Meet, though, and transitioned its emphasis to an internet-based method over carrier video calling.
Today, when you attempt to place a video call on Pixel, you'll be asked to use Google Meet instead of a built-in dialer feature.
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4. Privacy & Security Issues
Internet video calls (through WhatsApp, Telegram, or Google Meet) provide end-to-end encryption, so your talks are safe from hackers.
Carrier-based video calling, on the other hand, might not be as secure, so it is less desirable for privacy-conscious users.
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How to Make a Video Call Without Internet on Pixel?
If you must make a video call without mobile data or Wi-Fi, these are your choices:
1. Carrier Video Calling (If Available)
Certain carriers have VoLTE enabled.
To check:
Open Phone app → Head to Settings → Check for Video Calling.
In case the feature is not there, your carrier has not supported it on Pixel.
2. Making Use of Native Video Calling on Other Android Devices
If both you and the person you're calling have a Samsung or OnePlus phone (with the same carrier), you may find a video call option in the dialer.
But this won't be available on Pixel, as Google doesn't support it.
3. Use an Offline Video Messaging App
If you can't make a live video call, you can record a video message and send it through SMS or Bluetooth.
Apps such as Messages by Google enable you to send brief video clips without Wi-Fi.
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Final Thoughts: Should Google Include Direct Video Calling in Pixel?
Having a carrier-based video call feature built into the phone would be handy, but it is too restrictive, with carrier limitations and no encryption.
Google would rather have users use Google Meet and other internet-based applications for high-quality, secure video calls.
Would you rather have a native video calling feature in Pixel, or do you believe third-party apps such as WhatsApp and Google Meet are sufficient? Share your views in the comments! ????
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