Some US-based Google Pixel 10 buyers who have requested a replacement unit out of the box have been surprised to receive the global version, complete with the deleted physical SIM slot.
One of the biggest changes to hit the Google Pixel 10 series was the sudden deletion of the physical SIM slot for US models. Globally, the device keeps the top slot while offering eSIM compatibility. In the States, that option no longer exists — unless you request an RMA.
According to one user on Reddit, a Google Pixel 10 Pro XL complete with physical SIM support was shipped to them after requesting a replacement due to a “screen issue.” The phones are physically similar in every other way except for one SIM doorway at the top.
The replaced device that Google sells on its home turf doesn’t support physical SIM cards, opting to allow only for eSIMs. At the same time, that model supports mmWave 5G, while the version that leaves space for a SIM card does not.
It appears the model sent to the users is a global model, with no region specified. Apparently, this has happened at least twice.
Another user in the comments notes that the “exact same thing happened” to them, though it’s unclear what model they RMA’d, and if it was also a Google Pixel 10 Pro XL with no physical SIM support. There is no update on what Google’s customer support said after the author mentioned they would reach out.
Technically, there’s no reason for Google to withold sending the global model to users, as that model is built to work on most networks. For users who need or want mmWave 5G compatibility and dual-eSIM usage, the US variant may be important to hold on to.
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