Google Fi, a low-cost cellular plan, underwent significant changes this year. The most notable change is the removal of overseas data, texts, and calls from the Simply Unlimited plan. This aspect used to be Google Fi’s main selling point and set it apart from other inexpensive cellular plans. However, while this change might discourage frequent travelers, it is not enough to dismiss Google Fi entirely as an option. In fact, the Flexible plan, which still includes overseas data and unlimited free texts and calls like the Unlimited Plus plan, is highly recommended for routine travelers. It is worth noting that calls on both the Flexible and Unlimited Plus plans cost a flat rate of 20 cents per minute from outside the US.
When it comes to tethering, the lower tier Simply Unlimited plan has a limit of 5 GB, while the higher-tier Unlimited Plus plan has no tethering limit. The Flexible plan offers tethering at a cost of $10 per GB on an à la carte basis. Additionally, while both the Flexible and Unlimited Plus plans allow data to be shared with tablets and other devices, the Simply Unlimited plan does not offer this feature.
Google Fi utilizes T-Mobile and US Cellular’s 4G LTE and 5G networks. After exceeding a certain monthly threshold, data speeds are throttled. For the base tier, the threshold is 15 GB, while the unlimited plans have thresholds of 35 GB and 50 GB. However, on plans for a single phone line, data used after reaching 6 GB is free, ensuring no surprise bills for users who lose track of their data usage. The data threshold increases depending on the number of lines on the plan.
One of the advantages of Google Fi is its compatibility with various phone brands, including Samsung, OnePlus, Google, Motorola, and unlocked iPhones (although 5G is not supported on Apple devices). Fi utilizes network switching between US Cellular and T-Mobile to provide the best quality, although this feature is only available on select phones (excluding iPhones). To check if your device is fully compatible with Google Fi, you can visit their website.
Google Fi offers several plans to cater to different needs. The basic plan costs $20 per line plus $10 per GB of data. There are also unlimited plans available for $50 and $65. However, if you have five or more lines, the cost of the basic plan reduces to $16 per line (plus $10 per GB), while the unlimited plans decrease to $20 and $40 per line for four or more lines, respectively.
In comparison to Google Fi, Ting, another cellular service provider, recently revamped its data plans. Previously, they offered a highly customizable à la carte approach, where customers paid for each aspect of the phone plan individually. However, they have since adopted a more typical tiered system. All of Ting’s plans include access to 5G and 4G LTE networks, unlimited talk and text, and a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot.
Ting offers a $10 Flex plan without any data included, charging users $5 per gigabyte of data used. This plan is ideal for individuals who rarely use data since it provides fast network access and limitless talk and text without the high cost of unused data. Ting also offers a $25 plan with 5 gigabytes of data, while the $35 plan provides 8 gigabytes of its 12-gigabyte allotment for hotspot usage. However, when considering Ting’s relatively high prices and limited data (22 and 35 GB before 2G speeds kick in for their unlimited plans), competitors may offer better options.
Overall, Google Fi and Ting are two cellular service providers with unique offerings. While Google Fi experienced changes that may deter frequent travelers from the Simply Unlimited plan, it remains a recommended option for routine travelers through its Flexible plan. On the other hand, Ting provides tiered plans with the flexibility to choose the amount of data needed, making it suitable for those who hardly use data. Ultimately, individuals should consider their specific needs and comparing the features and prices of different plans to determine the best option for them.