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Android 10 brings Dual SIM Dual Standby support to Pixel 3a and Pixel 3a XL
July 29, 2025
The Android 10 stable update has arrived for Pixel smartphones and has activated a new feature for thePixel 3aand Pixel 3a XL. First spotted by9to5 Google, both phones have gained Dual SIM Dual Standby (DSDS) functionality with Android 10. The feature lets your smartphone make use of both the eSIM and physical SIM simultaneously.
DSDS support was announced for the flagshipPixel 3and Pixel 3 XL smartphones earlier during theAndroid Q Beta, but was later rolled back by Google.
WithDual SIMDual Standby, the Pixel 3a and Pixel 3a XL become the only phones in the Pixel series to support the functionality. It enables users to make and receive calls from both the eSIM and the physical SIM simultaneously. Dual signal bars at the top right corner of your display give you a visual indication for the two SIM cards in use.
How to activate Dual SIM Dual Standby on Pixel 3a, Pixel 3a XL?
It is advisable to check for eSIM support with your carrier before activating DSDS on your Pixel 3a phones. Google says only a few carriers currently support the functionality. Pixel 3a series devices purchased from Japan do not support dual SIMs.
If you have set up an eSIM with your carrier, follow the instructions below to add it to your phone.
If you want a prompt for network preference every time you make a phone call or text, tap the“Ask me every time”option. You can also check out Google’s guide to setting up SIM preferenceshere.
Dual SIM support is a handy option to have while traveling and allows you to retain your primary SIM card and a local SIM card for cheaper data. It also remains a very popular feature in emerging markets like India, and support for Dual SIM support on the Pixel 3a should make the phone a bit more appealing to potential buyers.
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