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Google's Nexus 4 uses Qualcomm SOC with dormant 4G capabilities

23.05.13

Google decided to release its LG-built Nexus 4 handset without 4G-capabilities, confirming at launch that the aggressively priced handset would be an HSPA+-only affair the globe-over. 

But a recent teardown by iFixit has revealed that the Nexus 4 does in fact use one of Qualcomm’s 4G-enabled chipsets , the Qualcomm WTR1605L SoC to be precise. 

However without the relevant 4G LTE antennas or amplifier, neither of which was found inside the handset during teardown, connecting to ultra-fast mobile data networks is simply not possible. 

So why include a 4G-enabled chipset in the first place?

The simplest explanation for this is that LG simply reused the LTE-ready chipset from its Optimus G handset inside the Nexus 4. The Optimus G supports LTE and costs around double the price of the Nexus 4. 

Could pricing have played a part in Google’s decision? 

Google’s Andy Rubin said noth including LTE inside the Nexus 4 was a ‘tactical issue,' adding that 4G networks aren’t prevalent enough to justify its inclusion inside the handset. Which does sound reasonable until you consider that both the Nexus S and Galaxy Nexus supported LTE. 

Source: Know Your Mobile (blog)