Smartphones have changed the way that many of us communicate and experience media. But that can come at a high price — literally. Though the processing power and speed of phones has rapidly increased over the years, there hasn’t been a corresponding drop in service charges, meaning that texts and videos and streaming music can set you back a fair amount each month.
If you’re an iPhone user, a respite for this might be in sight. At Gear Patrol, Tucker Bowe explores how the flagship cellular product from one tech giant can help users of the flagship phone from another tech giant save money. What it comes down to, Bowe writes, is Google Fi, which launched in 2015 but is now making inroads with iPhone users. Google Fi caps bills at $80 per month, hence the appeal.
The initial announcement of Google Fi for iPhones came late last year. Gear Patrol’s report notes that Google Fi for iPhones is still in beta. What does that actually mean for you? Gear Patrol has the specifics:
…[iPhone users] won’t be able to call or text over wi-fi, which could be an inconvenience if you’re often in homes or places with great wifi yet poor cell service. The other big thing is that your iPhone can’t be tied to a carrier – it needs to be unlocked. If your iPhone was purchased through a carrier, you need to go to Apple to see if they can unlock it for you, but you may be out of luck.
Bowe also mentions that Google Fi is a favorite of international travelers, some of whom haven’t yet adopted it for use at home. It’s one more thing to consider, and another shift in the communications landscape.
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