If you’re an Android user, you have already heard about Project Fi. But that doesn’t mean you know everything about it, so we are here to explain you What is Project Fi and how does it work?
What is Project Fi?
Project Fi is Google’s specialized wireless service designed mainly for Google’s own phones.
It works by giving you mobile data service on three mobile networks, which your phone will intelligently switch to LTE when Wi-Fi isn’t available.
Google does not own an LTE network. Hence, it has collaborated with Sprint and T-Mobile to step in whenever a Wi-Fi network is unavailable. Google has formed a special SIM card that will allow you to access both Sprint and T-Mobile networks.
It also uses Wi-Fi to make calls and send texts whenever available. Google’s Project Fi mobile service can save you money, especially if you’re traveling internationally.
Project Fi is available for the Pixel XL, Pixel, Nexus 6P, Nexus 5X and Nexus 6. You can also use the special SIM card which supports Sprint and T-Mobile networks.
How does it work?
It works with a special SIM card formed by Google and a small software on your phone which can authenticate you on T-Mobile, Sprint, and switch between them on the hover based on a variety of factors. Since it can also use Wi-Fi for calls and texts, you can keep using your phone in places where mobile data is not great.
When you use Project Fi, you will also get some of the similar features that have made Google Voice famous over the years. You can forward phone calls to your Fi number to any phone you want, as well as view voicemail, make calls and send texts with that number from any device using the Hangouts app and website.
Project Fi works internationally in 120+ countries around the world with no additional cost for data use or texting. You can call at a flat rate to any number while on the mobile networks abroad, or pay much lower rates when calling on Wi-Fi. You can also call back home to the U.S. on Wi-Fi for free. Data used internationally just comes out of your standard $10 per GB, but speeds can vary depending on the country you’re in.
Conclusion:
The big issue for most people is the limited phone choices. Google lets you use its latest phones, the Pixel and Pixel XL, on Project Fi, or you can bring one of the last three Nexus phones — the Nexus 6P, Nexus 5X or Nexus 6. But that’s it.
Maybe in the future Google will stop giving Fi like a side project and make it directly available and easy to set up on more than just its own phones.
Also Read: What Is Google Play Services?
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