Google had been expected to announce that it was becoming an MVNO at Google I/O in May. Anyone itching to find out more will be happy to know that their wait is at an end. Google tdoay unveiled Project Fi with Sprint and T-Mobile as partners for the new service.
Similar to our Nexus hardware program, Project Fi enables us to work in close partnership with leading carriers, hardware makers, and all of you to push the boundaries of what’s possible. By designing across hardware, software and connectivity, we can more fully explore new ways for people to connect and communicate.
Past rumours about Project Fi (or Project Nova as it was codenamed) have already covered many of the key points of the program.
Project Fi promises to “put you on the best network wherever you go.” It will do so by switching between Wi-Fi hotspots or 4G LTE networks to ensure that you’re always on the fastest one. More than a million free, open Wi-Fi hotspots have been identified as “fast and reliable.” Where one is not available, Google will switch you over to either Sprint or T-Mobile’s network, depending on which provides better coverage where you are. All data will be encrypted as it is transmitted.
Your phone number will no longer be tied to a single device. Recognizing that we live in a “multi-screen world,” Google will enable you to talk and text using your number from a range of devices, including phones, tablets and laptops. You will even be able to continue to use it even if you misplace your phone.
Google Fi will be offered with a single plan. For US$20 per month, you will get talk, text, Wi-Fi tethering and international coverage in more than 120 countries. Data will cost an a dditional US$10 per month whether you are in the U.S. or abroad. If you use less than the full GB of data, you will be reimbursed for the unused data. For example, if you opt for a 3GB allotment at a price of US$30 per month and only use 1.4GB, you would be reimbursed US$16 at the end of the month.
Google will provide a Project Fi app that will enable users to not only track data usage but also administer their accounts. For example, it will let you change plans and pay your bills.
Project Fi is launching in the U.S. for the Google Nexus 6. People will be invited to an Early Access Program.
Sources : Project Fi // Google