Introducing Google Fi

Last week brought some important news for one of Google's more recent projects. Previously titled "Project Fi," Google's mobile operator service Google Fi is officially coming to iPhones and most Android phones. When the service was first released in 2015, Google only offered it by invitation to certain Nexus 6 users. In 2016 the offer was extended to all Pixel and Pixel XL users, and with this most recent bit of news, it looks like the service will soon be available on all mobile devices.

So, What Is Google Fi? 

Google Fi is a mobile virtual network operator. In other words, it is Google's answer to cell phone service providers. A customer pays a fixed $20 rate per month for unlimited texting and calls for one device. Additionally, the customer can pay $10 per gigabyte for data usage, up to $60 (6 GB) in a month. There's also a money-back feature for unused data. Google provides this service by accessing cellular networks belonging to Sprint, T-Mobile, U.S. Cellular, and Three. The phone automatically accesses these networks based on the greatest signal strength, and data is accessed through a VPN with data encryption. Combining all of these networks, Google Fi provides access in over 170 countries around the world.

Currently, iPhone access to the service is in Beta, but iPhone users can download the Google Fi app, which will provide instructions on how to gain access. Certain settings on the iPhone will have to be disabled or changed to allow the service to work. 

Is It Worth It?

If you are wondering whether you should switch to this new service, I would recommend that you research how much you are currently spending on each phone with your current cell phone plan and determine whether it is really worth it. Also, depending on the phone, some features may not be available. However, the service has been praised for its pricing strategy and accessibility. Ultimately, you have to make the choice whether it's the right fit for your cellular lifestyle.