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Device Guides 1 min read

Can You Still Use a Pixel 4a in 2026?

Yes, the Pixel 4a still works in 2026. It's stuck on Android 13. What works, what doesn't, and what to check.

Founder & Lead Analyst, ShopCellPlans

Published October 3, 2026

Updated October 3, 2026

The Pixel 4a came out in 2020. Yes, it still works as a phone on most US carriers.

Key takeaways

The Pixel 4a still works on most US carriers.

It's stuck on Android 13.

Check the IMEI before switching carriers.

The quick answer

Calls and data: yes on most US carriers
Software: Android 13, no longer updated
Most apps still install, though fewer each year
Good as a backup or budget phone

Calls after the 3G shutdown

It supports VoLTE and eSIM and works on every major carrier. Google's updates for it ended in 2023.

How to check yours

Find the IMEI: dial *#06#, or look in the phone's settings or under the battery.
Enter it in your carrier's compatibility checker. Every major carrier and most prepaid brands have one.
If it isn't supported, it's usually missing approval for VoLTE (calls over 4G), which every US phone now needs.

Who it still works for

Anyone who wants a capable phone for very little money, or a dependable spare.

If you're replacing it

A new moto g 2026 or Galaxy A17 costs little, gets years of updates, and several carriers give them away when you switch. Pair it with a low-cost plan such as Mint Mobile ($15 a month for 6GB on a 12-month term) or Visible ($25 for unlimited, taxes included).

Free phones when you switch

Current offers from Metro, T-Mobile, Verizon, AT&T and Xfinity.

See phone deals →

Frequently asked questions

Does the Pixel 4a still work in 2026? +

Yes, it still works as a phone on most US carriers. It supports VoLTE and eSIM and works on every major carrier. Google's updates for it ended in 2023.

What's the last software version for the Pixel 4a? +

Android 13.

Keep reading

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About the author

Jean Gilles has researched personal finance, consumer technology, and wireless pricing for over a decade. He founded ShopCellPlans in 2019 and writes every review on the site.

More about Jean How we rank plans

#Google #Older phones #Pixel 4a

Independent since 2019 · No paid placement, ever Prices re-checked weekly

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Price-change alerts

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One email when a carrier raises rates, drops a plan, or launches a deal worth switching for. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.

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