Hadley Simmons / Android Authority
Google has entered nearly every corner of the consumer technology market. From the impressive lineup of Pixel smartphones to smart home products and even his coverage of mobile with Google Fi. Google Fi has become an increasingly popular carrier due to its affordable plans and support for nearly all phones. But which network does Google Fi use and how does it work? This guide will answer these questions.
read more: Google Fi Buyer’s Guide: Pricing, Plans & More
quick answer
Google Fi is unique among MVNOs as it uses both T-Mobile and US Cellular networks for coverage. It also added his W+ network of Wi-Fi hotspots to extend coverage across the United States.
What network does Google Fi use?
Robert Triggs / Android Authority
As a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO), Google Fi is unique in that it operates on T-Mobile and US Cellular networks and is not owned by these companies. Sprint previously contributed to Google Fi, which is now fully managed by T-Mobile. Combined networks mean Fi can flexibly switch between more cell towers to deliver his 4G LTE in more locations.
Google Fi relies on multiple mobile networks from T-mobile and US Cellular and a secure Wi-Fi connection.
Thanks to its relationship with T-Mobile, 5G is available nationwide for those with a Google Fi plan. If your smartphone is his 5G enabled, it will automatically connect. Google Fi currently only serves US customers. However, when it comes to international travel, Fi is the carrier that outperforms. Get free text messages and international calls from as little as 1 cent per minute, and data is available at standard rates.
If you have a Pixel phone, get more perks with Google Fi. That means a Pixel user can take advantage of her W+ network on her Wi-Fi hotspot. This can be found in low coverage areas such as certain airports, shopping malls, and stadiums. However, usage of these W+ hotspots will still count towards your Google Fi data plan.
How does Google Fi compare to the competition?
Ultimately, deciding which carrier is best for you depends on your individual needs. Google Fi has three different plans, each with more benefits for those traveling in North America or internationally. With a network that spans over 200 countries, you’ll get reliable coverage wherever you go.
However, if you have an iPhone, you won’t be able to take advantage of all of Google Fi’s features, such as network switching, and the maximum number of features is exclusive to Google’s own Pixel phones.
| flexible | Unlimited simply | Unlimited Plus | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
cost |
flexible
$20 per line |
Unlimited simply
$60 per line |
Unlimited Plus
$70 for 1 line |
|
talk & text |
flexible
Unlimited |
Unlimited simply
Unlimited |
Unlimited Plus
Unlimited |
|
data |
flexible
$10 per GB used |
Unlimited simply
Unlimited up to 22GB |
Unlimited Plus
Unlimited up to 22GB |
|
hotspot |
flexible
Full speed at $10 per GB |
Unlimited simply
Hotspot not included |
Unlimited Plus
including full speed |
|
International |
flexible
Calls from $0.01 per minute |
Unlimited simply
Free calls to Canada and Mexico |
Unlimited Plus
Free calls to over 50 countries |
|
extra |
flexible
Free data after monthly limit |
Unlimited simply
none |
Unlimited Plus
Google One Membership |
FAQ
No, Google Fi does not use Verizon cell towers.
Google Fi uses both T-Mobile and US Cellular networks for coverage.
As part of the launch, Google Fi ran a promotion in 2018 offering a month of free service to new customers. You can find current Google Fi promotions and discounts here.