You probably know about the MVNO (mobile virtual network operator) called Google Fi. Fi uses WiFi for your cell phone calls when available (at home and work, for example). When WiFi is not available, Fi uses the networks of T-Mobile and Sprint in USA, and T-Mobile's network in many other parts of the world.
Today, Fi also is now able to use the network of Three, a cell phone carrier with service in many countries. The Three data service is supposed to be 10 to 20 times faster for Fi customers than that provided by T-Mobile in foreign countries. The faster connection will facilitate video conferencing, uploading photos, downloading file attachments to email, live streaming, turn-by-turn directions, and other data-heavy services.
There is no extra charge for using Google Fi outside USA.
Here is the list of countries where Fi service is available.
https://fi.google.com/about/rates/
Today, Google Fi service requires a Nexus 5x, Nexus 6 or Nexus 6p phone. Google regularly offers discounts on the 5x and 6p. For example, right now Google is offering the 6p phone with 32 gb storage for $350. That's $150 off the regular list price.
Fi is not the cheapest cell phone plan available. Basic voice and texting service costs $20 a month. Data is $10 per gigabyte. So if you need a plan with voice, text and 4 GB of data, you'd pay $60 a month. Fi gives you credit for unused data. Say you use 3.5 gb on a 4 gb plan. You'd get $5 credit toward next month's bill.
WiFi calling to and from many foreign countries will add extra per minute charges. Better to use text messaging in most cases.
Fi does not require a contract. Cancel any time.
Today, Fi also is now able to use the network of Three, a cell phone carrier with service in many countries. The Three data service is supposed to be 10 to 20 times faster for Fi customers than that provided by T-Mobile in foreign countries. The faster connection will facilitate video conferencing, uploading photos, downloading file attachments to email, live streaming, turn-by-turn directions, and other data-heavy services.
There is no extra charge for using Google Fi outside USA.
Here is the list of countries where Fi service is available.
https://fi.google.com/about/rates/
Today, Google Fi service requires a Nexus 5x, Nexus 6 or Nexus 6p phone. Google regularly offers discounts on the 5x and 6p. For example, right now Google is offering the 6p phone with 32 gb storage for $350. That's $150 off the regular list price.
Fi is not the cheapest cell phone plan available. Basic voice and texting service costs $20 a month. Data is $10 per gigabyte. So if you need a plan with voice, text and 4 GB of data, you'd pay $60 a month. Fi gives you credit for unused data. Say you use 3.5 gb on a 4 gb plan. You'd get $5 credit toward next month's bill.
WiFi calling to and from many foreign countries will add extra per minute charges. Better to use text messaging in most cases.
Fi does not require a contract. Cancel any time.
