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Google just released their plans for a revolutionary phone data plan that gives you a seamless global network plus data and texting for over 120 countries.
This is huge–by combining different networks plus Wifi connections, Google is cobbling together a larger network than it could have if it launched solo.
Google says that if you initiate a phone call while you’re connected to WiFi, for instance, the service will automatically hand it off to whichever cellular network is strongest where you are. Speaking of WiFi, that secure connection feature spotted in a new build of Android is indeed part of the mix here too, with Google acting as a gatekeeper for your device’s data when it’s connected to one of those verified hotspots.
The base price for the service is only $20. And each gigabyte is $10.
And here’s the kicker.
If you don’t use all your data, Google will refund what you prepaid.
I’ve already signed up for an invite and you can too here. It doesn’t work on the current phone I have (which is funny, because it is an Android), but it is something I’d consider getting a second phone for. I’m already paying $25 a month for the right to use international data—which ends up being $100 per trip if I use a gigabyte of data.
I think this is huge and is going to revolutionize the way we use cell phones and data abroad.
I remember when texting was crazy expensive and suddenly dropped to unlimited. I’m hoping this does the same to global data.
Have you checked out T-Mobile? They have free texting and data while traveling abroad. I just switched over so can’t speak to how well it works, but if you are a frequent international traveler it can make a ton of sense (or dollars 😉
I looked into switching over completely, but there isn’t enough coverage where I tend to go in this area. I’ve been sort of considering getting a side plan, but I may just use the Google solution instead at this point.
(Love the pun!)
I *just* bought a new phone…would have held out if I had known this was on the way. Not really sure the low data price will be a great deal in the long run given the $650 phone that I otherwise don’t need, but I love to see the option and I’m sure that’ll impact other deals and innovation in the future.