Can Group Plans Finally Make Google’s Project Fi Service Relevant?

Google seems to be concentrating more on expanding Project Fi services to as many devices and users as possible.

Just recently, the search engine giant made an audacious move that will see non-Fi users take advantage of a feature that has been exclusive to Google Nexus 6P, Nexus 5X and Nexus 6 handsets that are using Project Fi. However, the change in terms means that other devices such as Nexus 5 can also be part of the plan, as long as Android 5.1 Lollipop is the oldest OS version installed on the handsets.

Now, to make the deal even sweeter, Google is reportedly working on adding group plans for Project Fi such that one group can include several members – something that would work perfectly with families. This discovery was made by Android Police, which got deeper into details pertaining the Project Fi APK file. In the process, a series of references pointing towards the possible inclusion of group plans has been found, something should be a huge welcome for many current users of Project Fi.

As at the time of this writing, there is no specific date that has been set aside with respect to the launch of these group plans on Project Fi. However, this discovery makes it certain that Google will be releasing such a feature in the near future, probably alongside the upcoming Google Pixel and Pixel XL.

There is no doubt that Google’s Project Fi is an amazing wireless service. The program relies on local carriers such as Sprint, U.S. Cellular, and T-Mobile as well as open Wi-Fi hotspots by switching between the best connection available, be it cellular (depending on which one you are using between Sprint, T-Mobile or U.S. Cellular) or Wi-Fi hotspots. The charges per GB of data is just $10, and the good thing is that in case you don’t fully use it by the end of the subscription period, the balance is handed over to you, unlike carrier plans that mean the remaining data disappears into thin air.

The fact that Project Fi has no room for group plans and it is simply limited to Google Nexus devices has meant that not so many people can benefit from the service. However, the recent discovery could be an indicator that the search engine giant is indeed looking to make this service more relevant, even if there is still no room for non-Nexus devices. Given that Project Fi is an application, we may end up seeing the app availed for other Android devices in the not so distant future.

So, while it is true adding group plans for Project Fi will add some relevance to the service, it is still far from becoming the go-to wireless service provider in the market so far.