Google Pixel phones have been updated with the ability to keep wireless connections on even when airplane mode is on. The new feature is said to be available on Android 13, and Pixel phones are said to be the first devices to receive the feature. Google previously added support to keep Bluetooth connections on even when airplane mode is on, and the feature is now being extended to Wi-Fi connections. On phones running Android 12 or later, turning on airplane mode disables both cellular and Wi-Fi connections.
According to a report by 9to5Mac, a new feature coming to Android 13 allows users to customize their phone settings to stay connected to Wi-Fi even when airplane mode is on. Previously, when airplane mode was on, it would disconnect both cellular as well as Wi-Fi connections.
To enable this feature, Google Pixel users can enable Airplane Mode by going to the device’s section Setting > Internet > Airplane mode. Then come back Internet and turn on Wi-Fi.
Once your device is connected to Wi-Fi, turn off Airplane Mode in the Settings app to enable the new functionality. In the future, when you turn on airplane mode, your phone will not turn off your Wi-Fi connection.
You can also quickly activate the new feature by swiping down from the top of the screen and going to the quick settings panel. Tap the airplane mode icon to turn it on, then turn on Wi-Fi.
With Android 11, Google also allows to maintain a Bluetooth connection on the user’s phone when airplane mode is on. You can enable Bluetooth in the settings app below Connected devices > Connection options > Bluetooth after turning on airplane mode. This will allow you to stay connected to your smartwatch or Bluetooth headset even in Airplane mode.
