I’ve been a subscriber to the Google Fi (formerly Project Fi) network for a couple years now. Like many of you, I depend on my mobile device for lots of data items, usually email, but I’ve also been able to get work done at times, and certainly Slack and Skype are a regular part of my work.
I made the switch because I often travel to the UK and a few other countries. Getting access from the US carriers is a pain. I’ve switched SIM cards before (never like doing that), carried a second phone that I can put a SIM in, and even tried to live on Wi-Fi. These are all compromises and a hassle.
I used to have Verizon and the had great coverage, but at $10/day, that adds up quickly. T-Mobile had free data, but low speed. My kids have Sprint and get the same, low speed connection that’s almost useless in today’s very chatty applications.
The last couple years have had me use the Google network in my travels. I’ve gotten phone and text calls in many places, tethered my computer, and been able to keep in touch in same way I do every day, regardless of where I am. I’ve been in these countries with Google Fi:
- United States
- United Kingdom (GB, Scotland, and N Ireland)
- Ireland
- France
- Switzerland
- Greece
- Norway
- Denmark
- Canada
- Australia
- New Zealand
- Hong Kong
In all of these countries, my phone connects and gives me 4G speeds, with my same data plan. I pay a bit for international calls, but texts are included. What’s even better is that my data cost is capped at $60. I pay $10/GB, but if I go over $60 (And I did while in Australia), there’s no extra charge. If I use less, I get charged on a pro-rated basis.
If you decide to move, I’ve got a referral link. You’ll save some money and I’ll get a little credit. Referral: https://g.co/fi/r/KAF848