Google MVNO [Confirmed] | Will Only Support Nexus 6? [Rumor]

Google's Sundar Pichai made an official announcement confirming rumors that Google intends to become a MVNO carrier later this year. Google's service is a very unique one, it involves using both T-Mobile and Sprint networks simultaneously depending on the best signal. The reason this is so intriguing is because T-Mobile uses GSM technology while Sprint uses CDMA. Currently there is only one phone (at least that I know of) that is capable of switching between the two, that is the Nexus 6. Unlike most phones which release a different version of the hardware for each carrier, or at least different hardware between GSM and CDMA carriers. The Nexus 6 come packed with radios for all carriers in the US despite carrier branding. Save for whitelisting IMEI numbers for devices purchased from certain places I could hypothetically use my Nexus 6 on any carrier by popping in a different SIM card.

Google had planned to be an MVNO carrier a long time ago (obviously) and it explains why they designed the phone the way they did. With its ability to use Enhanced LTE features, the legacy radios are kind of just there wasting space but if Google's service can't take advantage of VoLTE or they are compensating for T-Mobile's and Sprint's, spotty, coverage outside highly populated areas then they are more necessary. Ironically the past issue with Nexus devices for Verizon users has been lack of CDMA support on Verizon, and now the Verizon release is rumored to be using VoLTE and other Enhanced LTE features thus making the legacy CDMA radio useless. Times are changing folks, and one day all carriers will be relying solely on LTE and there will be no more CDMA or GSM, just LTE (technically is a GSM band though).


So while the news that you'll only be able to use the Nexus 6 with Google's service is still just a rumor, there is sufficient evidence in the device alone to say that its likely true.

Source:
 Phone Arena
Android Police