Google Fi is likely something you are familiar with if you are an Android enthusiast. However, that doesn't necessarily mean you know everything. There's much to learn now that the service is available to anyone with an unlocked smartphone. We're here to provide a detailed overview of the carrier, as provided by Google. We'll tell you what it is and how it compares to other carriers. And maybe even a few reasons why it might be worth your while.
Google Fi is a surprise. Your phone will choose the best network. While thinking about your phone's carrier can be a negative thing, Google Fi makes it a pleasant aside with great network switching and an app. Google Fi reduces overages, making international travel easy. This is the ideal balance for average data users. Starting at $20/mo Google Fi
What is Google Fi and how does it function? What is Google Fi's network name? Google Fi, a cell phone carrier owned by Google, is the highest-ranking. It offers data service on 2 mobile networks in the U.S. (T-Mobile and U.S. Cellular) that a compatible phone can intelligently switch between. Additionally, Wi-Fi is used to make calls and send text messages whenever Wi-Fi is available. VPN Deals: A lifetime license is $16 and monthly plans are $1. What are the plans for Google Fi? Google Fi offers two unlimited plans as well as a flexible plan. The Flexible plan includes unlimited text and talk for $20 per month. You only pay $10 for each 1GB of data used after that. After 6GB data is used in a month your data charges are capped at $60 per month. However, you still get data service. You can use as much data you like for the month, but you won't have to pay more than $80 ($20 base plus $60 data). There is one caveat to this: once you reach 15GB, your data speeds will slow to 256kbps. Alternately, you can pay $10 per GB to get full-speed data again at the 15GB point. The Simply Unlimited plan starts at $60 per month for one line if you know that you will be using more than 15GB of data regularly. This plan doesn't cost per gig, but you will experience slower speeds if you use more than 22GB. This plan does not offer international travel benefits or hotspot data. There is also no option for a data sim. The Unlimited Plus plan is available for $70 per month. It includes unlimited data (22GB) and the travel benefits of Flexible. You also get unlimited data and the option to receive a free SIM card. The plan includes free calls to over 50 countries as well as 100GB cloud storage with Google One. With multiple lines you can save money by getting a cheaper plan. The cost per line for the unlimited plan is lower with four additional lines or five with the flexible plan. For example, six lines can be added to your plan, but the cost per line for each one will remain the same as four. You can also add a data-only SIM free of charge so that you can share data with other devices without the need to create hotspots.
Lines Unlimited plus Simply Unlimited Flexible 1 Line $70 per line ($70), $60 per line ($60), $20 per line (Minimum Bill $10)
$10 per GB Protection at 6GB (Maximum Bill $80) 2 lines $60 ($120) $45 ($90) $18 ($18)
$10 per GB Protection at 10GB (Maximum Bill $135) 3 Lines $50 per Line ($150) $30 Per Line ($90) $17 Per Line (Minimum Bill $50)
$10 per GB Protection at 12GB (Maximum Bill $170) 4 Lines $45 per Line ($180) $30 Per Line ($120) $17 Per Line (Minimum Bill $65)
$10 per GB Protection at 14GB (Maximum Bill $205) 5 lines $45/line ($225) $30/line ($150) $16/line (Minimum Bill $80)
$10 per GB Protection at 16GB (Maximum Bill $240) 6 lines $45/line ($270) $30/line ($180) $16/line (Minimum Bill $95)
$10 per GB Protection at 18GB (Maximum bill $275).
Google Fi supports international usage
Source: Samuel Contreras / Android Central
Google Fi Flexible and Unlimited Plus are available in more than 200 countries worldwide. There is no extra cost for texting or data usage. This is Google Fi Flexible's biggest advantage over other carriers. Calls to international numbers can be made at a flat $0.20/min on cellular networks, or you can use Wi-Fi for much lower rates. Wi-Fi calls can be used to call home from the U.S. Depending on your plan, data used abroad is charged in the same manner as at home. There is one catch: speeds may vary depending on where you are located. This is normal. We have found that LTE speeds are available in many countries across Europe and Asia. There is a slight lag when the phone switches between roaming partners. Which phones are best for Google Fi?
Source: Joe Maring/Android Central
You can access all of Google Fi's services if your phone is Designed for Fi. This includes the Google Pixel series, Samsung Galaxy S20/S21 series, and other devices from Samsung. Your phone can seamlessly switch between T-Mobile towers and U.S. Cellular towers when you activate it with the Google Fi app. It will feel like you are using one network. Your phone will only be able access T-Mobile's network if it isn't listed on the Designed for Fi List. However, this will still work for many. Both Designed for Fi and compatible with Fi phones support 5G, which means you will have access to T-Mobile’s huge 5G coverage if the phone supports T-Mobile’s 5G bands. With one SIM, you get two mobile networks and Wi-Fi. In addition to the traditional networks, Google Fi relies heavily on Wi-Fi wherever possible. Your phone uses the "WiFi assistant" to search for and connect with open Wi-Fi networks. This database includes known good networks that can provide reliable connections. Your phone will connect to Wi-Fi through a VPN. This ensures your safety. You won't notice any difference in your phone experience except that you no longer pay for mobile data. Wi-Fi works the same way as mobile data. You can also continue your call even if your phone switches networks. Google Fi also offers many of the same features that made Google Voice so popular over the years. You can make and receive phone calls from your Fi number to any other phone, view voicemail, make calls, send texts, and forward calls to that number to any other phone using Google Messages. What phones are compatible with Fi? Google approved phones offer the best experience. However, Fi works well with unlocked phones. Google Fi is a first-class service that Google Pixel phones offer. These phones come with an eSIM that is pre-programmed to Fi. You can create an account and connect directly to the network without needing a SIM card. You can also buy other phones that are "designed for Fi", such as the Moto G Power and Samsung Galaxy S21. The Galaxy Z Flip3 5G was designed for Fi, while only the Galaxy ZFold3 5G has compatibility. If phones are well-received, it should be possible to update the phones with support. The phones are designed for Fi and can switch between Fi's network partners T-Mobile USA and UScellular. They also have seamless transitions between Wi-Fi hotspots or mobile networks via a Google VPN service. One of the most popular Android phones will be compatible with Google Fi. What phones work with Fi? Google Fi is compatible with any unlocked smartphone, but there are some restrictions. Unlocked phones will not be able take advantage Fi's network switching. You'll use the T-Mobile network most of the time and won't have Fi's 24/7 VPN option. You still get international roaming and all the Fi features such as simple billing and the Fi app. This unlocked support is available for iPhones as well, which is a huge step forward for Fi. Google Fi supports iMessage with your Fi number. T-Mobile has been integrating Sprint towers into its network so that even phones not designed for Fi can get the majority Google Fi's coverage. UScellular offers great coverage in certain areas, but the majority of us will be able get by with T-Mobile's coverage. Is Google Fi compatible with 5G?
Source: Daniel Bader / Android Central
Google Fi now supports 5G with its Designed for Fi smartphones as well as a compatible with Fi phones that are connected to T-Mobile's 5G network. For the best 5G connection, your phone must support bands n71 or n41 on T-Mobile's network. The Pixel 4a 5G and Pixel 5G are available for Fi 5G. Samsung Galaxy S20, S21, Note 20 series and A71 5G smartphones will all work with Google Fi. Access to all three networks' full LTE coverage is included. Quite a few 5G phones that are the best are not on Google's Designed for Fi List. T-Mobile 5G service can still be accessed if your phone is compatible with Fi but not listed as supporting 5G. How to finance a Google Fi phone. If you are eligible (up to Google based on credit checks), you can buy a new phone and then pay monthly installments. You don't need to make a down payment or pay interest. The cost of the phone you choose is spread over 24 months. The balance can be paid off at any time. However, if you leave Google Fi, the entire cost of the phone will have to be paid immediately. From the moment you purchase your phone, you have 30 days to activate Google Fi. Google will charge the full price for your phone if the Google Fi service is not activated within 30 days.
Full Fi on a Galaxy Samsung Galaxy S21 Phone Hardware with full Fi support. The Galaxy S21 has a Snapdragon 888 CPU, three-camera array, great battery and, most importantly, great network support including 5G. Amazon: $650
Best Buy: $650
What happens if I require Google Fi support? What happens if my Google Fi phone is damaged?
Source: Samuel Contreras / Android Central
Talking with tech support is not something I enjoy. And being in a store trying to sell you accessories or upgrades doesn't make it any less fun. Google Fi is your best option if you have any questions. This could be the best carrier app that you have ever used. Download the Google Fi app on Android and iOS to get 24/7 phone, chat, and email support. You can access the Google Fi support page to discuss your device and any issues you may have. You can see your Google Fi usage and billing. The same app as the support sites works great to show you real-time usage, and what it will cost. You can keep track of how much data you use with the Android widget. To see the information, you will need to open the iOS app. However, a data warning can also be set to notify you when your data usage is high. These tools will ensure that your bill is never surprising. How do I cancel Google Fi service? It's very simple. Simply go to Google Fi and click or tap the Account tab. Click or tap Manage Plan under your Plan. Click Cancel service. Follow these instructions. What if I want to use my Google Fi phone on another carrier? If it is compatible with the carrier, it should work. Google clearly states that your phone does not need to be connected to Google Fi. You can switch to Google Fi if you are willing to go through the hassle of changing carriers and porting you phone number. Google Fi is open for all unlocked phones. Google Fi is easy to sign up online. You can buy a phone and get discounts or incentives, or you can request a SIM card from Google to use with your current phone. You can also use the eSIM to get your Pixel up and running quickly. Google Fi is well worth your consideration. Google Fi offers many cool features, including simplified billing, Bill Protection that caps your monthly charges, seamless international data and calls, and better network coverage thanks to the use of three Wi-Fi networks and carriers. Each one will offer a different draw for different people but it's an attractive package. Google Fi's pricing doesn't seem to be significantly lower than other providers. Whether it's a good financial choice for you financially depends on how much data you use and what features you choose. We encourage you to research the pricing of each carrier before making a decision. Sprint was acquired by T-Mobile. Google Fi will be affected by this purchase? T-Mobile purchased Sprint on April 1, 2020. This brought the two networks under its control. T-Mobile has unites the two networks and is moving Sprint customers to its T-Mobile network. Google Fi customers won't notice any significant changes in service quality, but it is possible for some rural customers to see positive changes. T-Mobile's infrastructure will still be compatible, so even unlocked phones with 5G support will be able use Google Fi with 5G. T-Mobile stated that it will continue supporting MVNOs and is unlikely to change anytime soon.
