Google removes Pixel 4’s Soli Radar Motion gesture feature from Pixel 5, but the tech will make a comeback

Google has just unveiled its much-anticipated smartphones, Pixel 5 and Pixel 4A with 5G in US and other select countries. While its flagship Pixel 5 is what is getting the most features and powerful specs, people familiar with last year’s Pixel 4 were quick to point out the missing Motion Sensor based on Soli radar chip. This was introduced in order to unlock the phone faster and get certain work down using hand gestures without touching the device. But this time it isn’t there in Pixel 5, Pixel 4A 5G or Pixel 4A. 

Now, this might make some users think that it was a gimmick and just a one-off from Google. But it is not and the tech will be making a comeback in future. “They’ll be used in the future,” said Rick Osterloh, Google’s head of hardware division to The Verge. Osterloh however, did not confirm in what device this tech will be coming soon. It could be phone or a different product altogether.

Also read: Google Pixel 4a to launch in India on October 17

Omitting the Soli radar chip from Pixel 5 does bring down the cost of the handset. The handset launched at $699 while last year’s Soli-based Pixel 4 launched at $799.  Another advantage here is that removing the radar chipset, which used 60GHz mmWave, it might be able to bring this in more countries. However, on the flip side, the company’s only answer to Apple iPhone’s FaceID unlock is now gone and the device is back to physical fingerprint lock. Many might also take it as a step back. But let’s see what Google has in store for future.

For what’s worth, a recent FCC filing has indicated that Soli-based motion gesture can come in the upcoming Nest Thermostat.