Alphabet (Google) has opened up its wireless service Project Fi to customers across the US following an invitation-only early access programme. The service automatically connects customers with either WiFi or one of two 4G LTE networks – whichever is the fastest.
Alphabet (Google) (NASDAQ:GOOG, GOOGL) has opened up its wireless service Project Fi to customers across the US following an invitation-only early access programme.
“While Project Fi is still in its early stages, we’re excited to welcome our next wave of customers and look forward to growing and improving together,” Simon Arscott, product manager for the project said in a blog post.
Introduced about 10 months ago, Project Fi offers a wireless service that automatically connects customers with either WiFi or one of two 4G LTE networks – whichever is the fastest for them at the time. As such, it effectively serves as an MVNO, using the networks of the US’ two smallest MNOs: T-Mobile US and Sprint. Project Fi says it has verified its more than one million WiFi spots as fast and reliable. Arscott said over 50% of project customers are connecting to public hotspots on a weekly basis.
Customers can transfer their current phone numbers over to Project Fi when they sign up or get a new number. They are able to make calls in the US and more than 120 other countries at the same rate.
Project Fi is currently available only on Nexus 6P, Nexus 5S and Nexus 6 devices.
Google Fiber recently invited some high-speed internet customers to trial a new phone service, saying it gave them a chance to add home phone service to their fibre plan. The invitation said those who trialled the service would be asked for feedback ahead of a launch to all customers.
Established in 2012, Google Fiber provides high-speed internet and television services in Austin, Kansas City and Provo, with plans to expand nationwide.
