How do I set up my Google Pixel phone to work on Cogeco Mobile?

Important Tips for Your Google Pixel Phone Setup:

We want to make sure your Cogeco Mobile experience is seamless. Here are a few extra tips for setting up your Google Pixel phone:

• Always Update to the Latest OS (Critical for Pixel):  For the best performance, security, and network compatibility, we recommend always keeping your phone updated to the latest available OS version. 
• A Necessary Step for Pixel: You must update your phone to Android 16 with the March 5th System Update to ensure your 5G and VoLTE services work properly on our network.
• Dual SIM Users – A Quick Step: If your Google Pixel phone uses two SIM cards, please ensure you select your Cogeco SIM when navigating your network settings.
• Activating Your Data APN: Once your phone is updated, your network settings should load automatically. When you get to the "Access Point Names" screen, make sure to tap the circle next to the "Cogeco Internet" APN to select it.
• Heads Up on MMS: Sometimes, it can take up to an hour for picture and video messages (MMS) to start working perfectly after you've set everything up. Please test it after a little while, and if you're still having trouble, give us a call!

Setup steps for Google Pixel phones:

With Android 16 and the March System Update, your phone simplifies setup by automatically configuring all correct network settings (APNs) once your Cogeco Mobile SIM card is installed. This includes setting the preferred network to 5G and enabling essential services like VoLTE, MMS (picture messaging), and personal hotspot.

1. Verify and Update Your Software
   • Connect your phone to Wi-Fi.
   • Go to Settings > System > Software updates.
   • Tap System update and check the date.
     
     • If it says March 5 (or later): You are good to go! Proceed to Step 2.
     • If the date is older than March 5: Tap Check for update. Allow the update to download and install, then restart your phone.
       
2. Verify APN Settings 
   Once your phone is updated to the March 10th patch, your phone should automatically configure your network settings. Let's verify they are correct:
   1. Navigate to: Settings > Network & internet > SIMs > Cogeco > Access Point Names.
   2. Confirm that you can see both Cogeco Internet and Cogeco MMS on the list.
   3. Make sure the circle next to Cogeco Internet is filled in (selected).
      
3. Verify Your 5G Settings. 
   • Once updated, VoLTE (Voice over LTE) is automatically enabled in the background to ensure the best call quality; you do not need to turn this on manually.
   • Navigate back to: Settings > Network & internet > SIMs > Cogeco.
   • Tap on Preferred network type and confirm it is set to 5G (recommended).
     
4. Restart Your Phone
   • Turn off your Google Pixel phone and then turn it back on to apply all changes.

Testing Your Service:

Once your phone has restarted, verify everything is working well:

• Try sending a text message (SMS).
• Make a quick call to test your phone number and calling services.
• Turn off your Wi-Fi and try to browse the internet to confirm mobile data is active.
• Send a picture message (MMS).