Google cell phone: Project Fi

[farfallen]

https://fi.google.com/about/plan/

Are you going to switch?

[askmoses]

The announcement http://googleblog.blogspot.com/2015/04/project-fi.html
The video https://youtu.be/xfFHnBQ6nQg
Coverage checker https://fi.google.com/coverage?u=0
Request an invite https://fi.google.com/signup?u=0

The Basic plan is $20/month and includes unlimited domestic talk and text, unlimited international texts and Wi-Fi tethering. Each GB of data is an extra $10, and you'll actually get any unused data credited back at the end of the month.

Project Fi automatically connects you to free, open Wi-Fi hotspots; when you're not on Wi-Fi, it moves you between its partner networks (currently Sprint and T-Mobile) for 4G LTE coverage.

Currently only works with Nexus 6.

Personally, I'd like to see how well this actuallyworks in the field before considering it.

[grodnoking]

Same as the other one. That used moto x.

[skyguy918]

Same as the other one. That used moto x.

+.5

They're certainly using much of Republic Wireless's blueprint, though RW is cheaper for the basic plan ($10 vs. Google's $20), and also for the 4G plan if you think you need 2-5GB per month. Obviously the fact that Fi refunds you for unused data helps a little. But most intriguing to me, and what may set Fi apart, is this:

Use your phone number with tablets and laptops too

Talk, text, and check voicemail with the screen nearest you. Your phone number now works with more than just your phone. Connect any device that supports Google Hangouts (Android, iOS, Windows, Mac, or Chromebook) to your number. Then, talk and text with anyone—it doesn't matter what device they're using.

[askmoses]

Most intriguing to me is that they are a potentially automatic game changer and have the ability to make waves with this type of service idea. Republic Wireless is a nobody...

[kangarruu]

+.5

They're certainly using much of Republic Wireless's blueprint, though RW is cheaper for the basic plan ($10 vs. Google's $20), and also for the 4G plan if you think you need 2-5GB per month. Obviously the fact that Fi refunds you for unused data helps a little. But most intriguing to me, and what may set Fi apart, is this:

You can already do all this with Google Voice.

[skyguy918]

You can already do all this with Google Voice.

-1. You can't do anything over cellular with GV, it's all data based.

[Achas Veachas]

How is this working with Sprint and T-Mobile? The phone will switch between GSM and CDMA?

[california]

How is this working with Sprint and T-Mobile? The phone will switch between GSM and CDMA?

Will use a special sim card

[askmoses]

Will use a special sim card

Video indicates they had to put in some kind of different radio as well. That in itself is interesting.

[talmid chuchem]

if only the device wouldn't cost $600.....

[pcgeek]

if only the device wouldn't cost $600.....

Google said that they'll expand to more devices later on.

[yitrap]

if only the device wouldn't cost $600.....

EBay has used for 350 range... Not great but not horrible.

[talmid chuchem]

Google said that they'll expand to more devices later on.

But in the Faq, they say that's not in the near future, and even then it will be expensive because of the special technology.

[skyguy918]

But in the Faq, they say that's not in the near future, and even then it will be expensive because of the special technology.

Where does it say that last part? The technology is not expensive. The reason why every phone doesn't already have this capability is the influence of the carriers.

The phone is expensive because it's their latest flagship phone, and that's what flagship phones cost these days.

[yesitsme]

How is this working with Sprint and T-Mobile? The phone will switch between GSM and CDMA?

if i'm not mistaking the CDMA/GSM is at the end of life, everyone is (starting) using LTE & VoLTE is roling out, if google uses VoLTE they have no problem

Edit:

"We developed new technology that gives you better coverage by intelligently connecting you to the fastest available network at your location whether it's Wi-Fi or one of our two partner LTE networks," the company said

There’s one important restriction, however: It’s currently only available on the Nexus 6, which Google developed with Motorola.

Currently only works with Nexus 6.

Makes sense that it requires VoLTE (if all devices would be compatible it wouldn't)

Interesting to note:
Project Fi phone numbers "live in the cloud," according to Google, enabling you to text and place voice calls from a laptop or tablet without your actual phone nearby. When you are on the phone, Google says calls can seamlessly transition to LTE when you leave a Wi-Fi network. Google seems to be using the new, combined Hangouts / Google Voice infrastructure in some way for Fi,

[talmid chuchem]

if i'm not mistaking the CDMA/GSM is at the end of life, everyone is (starting) using LTE & VoLTE is roling out, if google uses VoLTE they have no problem

But GSM/CDMA will stay, they won't add more of this technology,but they will leave the existing towers that have these technology.

[yakov116]

But GSM/CDMA will stay, they won't add more but what they have yet will leave.

?!

[thaber]

I get much better service with 3g cdma than I do with Lte,  especially when traveling.I keep the Lte off on my phone because it defaults to the Lte which is usually weaker. Don't think LTE is ready for prime time as a stand alone

[Achas Veachas]

I get much better service with 3g cdma than I do with Lte,  especially when traveling.I keep the Lte off on my phone because it defaults to the Lte which is usually weaker. Don't think LTE is ready for prime time as a stand alone

Sounds like you have Sprint...