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Verizon vs. Google Fi: Are Fi's features worth it?
While Verizon's data-heavy unlimited plans make sense for some heavy users, lighter users could save with one of Google Fi's plans
Whether you’re looking for international data or just want tight Pixel phone integration, Google Fi is an appealing carrier. If you need a lot of data, however, Verizon starts to make a lot more sense. With no cap on its plans, you don’t need to worry about your data being slowed due to heavy usage. Both plans feature multiline discounts, so if you’re bringing the family along, you can get some extra savings. Keep in mind, though, that all members need to be on the same plan with Google Fi, while Verizon customers can mix and match plans to fit individual needs.
Best Google Fi Plans in 2024
Google Fi offers two unlimited and one flexible plan with multiline discounts for families, and even includes international data
Google Fi started simply as Project Fi with a single plan. However, in recent years, it has expanded to include two unlimited plans that are a better value for heavy users. Google Fi uses coverage primarily from T-Mobile with some additional coverage from Wi-Fi partners; it also provides international coverage in more than 200 locations. Fi also offers full smartwatch connectivity at no additional cost, and some plans can even get a second data-only SIM for a backup phone or tablet.
T-Mobile vs. Google Fi: Are Fi's features worth the switch?
Both use the T-Mobile network for coverage, but T-Mobile's plans focus on unlimited data, and Fi focuses on features
If you want coverage on the T-Mobile 5G network, you have a solid selection of prepaid and postpaid options. Google Fi, for example, uses T-Mobile for most of its coverage, with some Wi-Fi coverage in some cities. For most people, the T-Mobile network is a great choice with strong nationwide 5G coverage, including mid-band spectrum, which has made it one of the most performant networks. Even so, Google Fi’s plans are different enough from T-Mobile’s postpaid offerings to make them a worthwhile alternative.
Best Google Fi phones in 2024
Google Fi supports a range of phones, with full feature support for Pixels as well as some Samsung and Motorola models
Google Fi is a unique carrier with a lot of appeal for those looking for reliable coverage with an easy app and straightforward pricing. Google Fi not only offers coverage on the T-Mobile network but has partnered with Wi-Fi providers to improve coverage in some dense areas, which the phone can automatically switch to. Google Fi also offers free international roaming on two of its plans so if you're leaving the country, you don't need to worry about finding a SIM or paying overages.
Google Fi: What plans does it offer and how can I subscribe?
Google's MVNO isn't for everyone, but it can offer substantial savings
Reliable mobile networks are a necessity, just as much as a reliable water supply. While the big three carriers (Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile) cover many users, sometimes the prices aren't great, which is where MVNOs come in. Companies like Mint Mobile and Ting piggyback off the big three to offer their own connections at much more affordable prices, and Google's Fi is one such carrier.
Google Fi just raised its prices for some unlimited plans
Simply Unlimited group plans are getting a little less simple
MVNO Google Fi is raising its prices for certain unlimited plans. According to new Google Fi support documentation, Simply Unlimited group plans with three or more members are getting more expensive. Prices aren't changing for plans with one or two members, and the features on offer are the same as before.
Mint Mobile vs. Google Fi: Which wireless is best for you?
Mint Mobile comes out ahead in terms of value, but Google Fi has some features that Android fans adore
Google Fi is certainly a compelling carrier option, especially if your phone runs Android. Google Fi has kept its pricing competitive and expanded to offer three plans with multi-line discounts, so just about anyone can find something with Google Fi that works for their needs.
How to forward your number on every major US carrier
Forwarding calls to another number is easier than you think
Call forwarding allows you to redirect calls to a different number. When you're unavailable or left your phone at home, you can forward calls to a partner, assistant, or office number. Though you've likely heard of call forwarding, you may not know that it's an easy-to-activate option available on most modern phones, including the latest Android devices. AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, and Google Fi all support call forwarding. However, the method to turn it on is different for each. Read on and learn how to turn on call forwarding on your device, whoever your provider is.
Fi members will soon get easier access to Google One
You won't be billed separately for your Google One subscription if you have Fi Wireless
If you subscribe to several Google products and services, you might find yourself frustrated when you need to switch apps to manage your account. Even if you use the same account across multiple Google products, a lack of integration can make it difficult — if not impossible — to handle everything at once. Now, Google is looking to simplify matters for users of at least some of its services. Those who have Fi Wireless will soon be able to manage their Google One subscription from one account page.
Visible vs. Google Fi: Which carrier should you pick?
Google Fi has great features, but Visible's simplicity and low prices push it ahead.
Visible is known for its unlimited data; to that point, it's one of only a handful of prepaid carriers to offer truly unlimited data on its unlimited plans. By comparison, Google Fi's unlimited plans come with 35GB or 50GB of high-speed data before being throttled to 256Kbps. Even so, Google Fi rightly points out that this is more than enough data for most people, and Fi's strength really comes from something that Visible can't match — international roaming and Google services.
For many people, Google Fi provided them with a cost-effective alternative to the biggest carriers in the US. Its companion app allowed you to manage your lines in a simple manner, but with Google launching interface redesigns to many of its apps, like Home, it was time Google Fi Wireless followed suit.
You can now add your smartwatch to Google Fi’s network for free
Google Fi is also getting a slight name change
Google launched its MVNO service under the Project Fi moniker in April 2015. Initially, the network was limited to Nexus phones, but Google opened it up to a lot more devices, including iPhones, in November 2018. As a part of the upgrade, the company rebranded the MVNO service to Google Fi. Fast forward to 2023, and Google is giving Fi another makeover with a new logo, a slight name change, and new perks.
Google Fi 5G finally works on iPhones, and here's how to enable it
Google’s MVNO just flipped the switch on faster coverage for Apple phones
Google Fi used to be a complicated amalgamation of cellular networks, but that's all changed now that T-Mobile and Sprint merged, combining two of the three main service providers for Google's MVNO. The third network, US Cellular, was dropped by Fi earlier this month, meaning Google's cell service provider is now essentially just a reseller of T-Mobile connectivity. While we could lament about late stage capitalism and reduced coverage maps, there's one upside here: it's a lot easier for Fi to implement new features now that its infrastructure has been simplified.
Google Fi is test-driving a new 7-day free trial for eSIMs
The deal comes with unlimited calling and tethering
If you’ve been considering giving Google Fi a try, now might be the perfect time to take it out for a spin. The carrier is test-driving a trial program for new customers that would allow you to preview the service for a week for free using the eSIM on your device.
Google Fi just removed US Cellular as its ‘official’ network
The MVNO has so far relied on both T-Mobile and US Cellular to provide its services
Google Fi has long been a better — and cheaper — way to improve your cellular network experience on some of the top Android phones that are compatible with Fi. That has been possible because the MVNO has so far relied on two network providers, T-Mobile and US Cellular, to get you a strong signal wherever you are. It now looks like Google Fi is dropping US Cellular, at least as its official partner, but you have little to worry about.
T-Mobile's data breach also hit Google Fi customers
Your Google Fi connection details may have ended up with the hackers
T-Mobile suffered a massive data breach earlier in January, severely affecting close to 37 million customers. A lot of their sensitive personal data was compromised in this cyber attack. It now appears that the same breach also included customer data from Google Fi, which counts T-Mobile as one of its network providers.
Google Fi subscribers can now use 5G while roaming in more countries
iPhone users on Google Fi are finally gaining Wi-Fi calling support
Google Fi provides incredible value for money. The big G's MVNO relies on T-Mobile and US Cellular's LTE and 5G networks to offer unlimited texting, calling, and cheap mobile data. However, it has some drawbacks, like limited support for 5G networks when roaming internationally. iPhone users have it worst, as the service does not support Wi-Fi calling and mobile data hotspot outside the home country. Google Fi is now addressing some of these limitations with its latest updates.
Google Pixel Watch may be the first smartwatch to have Google Fi support
Google Fi app teardown suggests the network is adding support for the upcoming Pixel Watch
Google Fi is an MVNO carrier from Google that uses T-Mobile's and US Cellular's LTE and 5G networks. The service does not support the best Android smartwatches on the market today, despite many of them sporting the required hardware for cellular connectivity. It looks like this precedent could soon change, though, with the launch of the upcoming Pixel Watch.
How T-Mobile's 3G shutdown will impact Google Fi and older Pixels
In short: It's time to upgrade that old phone
The long and drawn-out death of carrier 3G services in the US is approaching its dramatic close, with T-Mobile next to flip the off switch on its legacy systems in July. Google Fi, being a T-Mobile MVNO, will also be affected when that happens, and the company has detailed exactly how subscribers will be affected.
Google Fi's subtle new Material You redesign is starting to land
Fi's Material You changes are so small, you might not notice them.
You should already know what Google Fi is, but whether you're a subscriber to Google's MVNO service or not, its Android companion app is finally catching up to other Google apps with its own Material You layout. It's not a total redesign (if that's what you were hoping for), with the app merely picking up support for dynamic color theming and small changes to the navigation bar interface.