Google Project Fi has been around for a couple of years now and honestly, the service is doing pretty well in a market where so many other carriers exist.
Of course, it’s true that Google Project Fi is not necessarily the best carrier out there, but the network definitely meets the needs of many people just as they’d expect. However, one thing that is kind of becoming a concern for many, including here at Nashville Chatter, is the number of devices that are supported on Fi.
Also Read: Google Project Fi Ultimate Buying Guide – What You Need to Know
In order to activate Project Fi, you need to grab any of the latest Google Nexus 6P, Nexus 5X, Pixel or Pixel XL phones. Even though the Nexus 6 is compatible, no one wants to buy a phone that is no longer supported in terms of software updates. Besides, good luck finding one!
Due to the love many people have had for the Google Nexus 6P and Nexus 5X, Project Fi has seen quite an impressive growth rate since its inception. However, the market is changing fast, with more devices coming in with high-end hardware and features, yet priced at about $400 or below. For the Nexus loyalists who are already into Fi, it will be hard making the switch to these amazing phones since they are not compatible with the Google service.
The worst case here is that Google doesn’t seem to be planning a release of devices that are compatible with Project Fi yet priced at below $400 – at least anytime soon. At the moment, the only devices that are available via Fi are the new Pixel phones, which start at $649, and the Nexus 6P that goes for $399. The latter is a great device, but it will no longer be receiving software updates after next year.
Also Read: You Don’t Need Nexus 6P, Nexus 5X or Pixel Phone to Use Google Project Fi – Here’s the Trick
For those who love compact devices like me, the Nexus 5X was an amazing catch at $199 on Project Fi, however, the phone is no longer in stock. Being a 2015 budget phone, the performance of the phone has started deteriorating, something that might tempt many to make the switch to a newer and more powerful device.
Since the only other compact device that supports Project Fi is the Google Pixel, which costs a whopping $649, many might soon be ditching Fi just because of the price of this phone. As noted, the Nexus 6P is available at a decent price, but similar to the Nexus 5X, it won’t be supported for much longer and it also comes with a massive 5.7-inch display screen, which is just uncomfortable for quite a good number of people.
While it’s possible that the release of the Google Pixel 2 will lead to discounted prices for the original Pixel, don’t expect this price cut to be significant enough to compete with the sub-$400 smartphones in the market. So, what does this mean? It means that people will leave Project Fi just because they can’t find suitable replacements for the Nexus 5X or even Nexus 6P as far as price, performance, and compatibility are concerned.
Google Project Fi has quite a number of goodies that make people love it. For instance, you only pay for the data you use. In case of an overpayment, you’ll be refunded the extra amount at the end of the month. The service doesn’t have any extra charges for tethering and you also get no roaming fees in a massive 135 countries globally. When visiting these countries, call rates are favorable and you still get to use the same data package. Many carriers tie people to contracts that require a fee in order to leave. Well, Google Project Fi doesn’t, which also means you can leave anytime you wish to.
Also Read: Google Project Fi – 7 Reasons to Try (And Not to Try) the Service
According to Google, the only reason why Project Fi is limited to Nexus 5X, Nexus 6P and the Pixel phones is that only these devices have the necessary hardware needed to support this network. We all know Google did not make any of these devices, something that should open the door for the tech giant to work with other third-party OEMs to bring Fi-compatible devices to the market.
One thing that would still stand in the way of many Nexus 5X and Nexus 6P users as far as making the switch to these non-Google devices would be the software experience. Stock Android is great, but having a third party device means dealing with skinned versions of the OS. Security updates won’t come directly from Google, which may slow the entire process of receiving updates. But does this mean you pay $600+ just so as to stay on Project Fi, especially when there are great and affordable phones such as the Huawei Honor 8, ZTE Axon 7, OnePlus 3T and others?
Also Read: Google Project Fi vs. T-Mobile – How do they compare?
Well, for me, making the switch to another wireless carrier might be an easier option than shelling out $649 for a Google Pixel phone and I am confident that this will be the case for many others unless Google steps in with more budget devices that are compatible with Project Fi.
What do you think? Share your thoughts with us in the comments section below.
The Pixel and Nexus phones can coexist side by side imo
I agree they can coexist ,and I’d never consider any of the other phones listed except maybe the 3t only because they seem to stay on top of software updates a few times a month . All the other alternatives listed while cheap may never see an ounce of support again
Once TMobile finished out their Network or aquires Sprint whatever comes first is there even a need for dinner then ?
I won’t be leaving Project Fi.
The Google devices are solid, unlike Apple of which we have owned many, and will last 2 years.
The savings over a regular network are too great. For a couple who travel abroad with an average bill of <80 a month.
I'll be upgrading to a Pixel once my Nexus 5x dies.
Actually, other MVNO’s have much lower prices than Project FI – I used to pay $30 for 1GB LTE Data with Project FI —- Now I pay $27 for 10GB LTE Data with MintSim. Much happier with all the low cost data. Google needs to lower costs to be competitive.
Completely agree. Even when you finance a Pixel phone through them the monthly cost is lower than a basic plan at the big providers. I think the writer should have picked up on that. This depends on data usage, but most people on fi probably aren’t data monsters anyways.
I think you should do some more research.
There are multiple accounts on the web of users who are using Project Fi with other than Google’s devices. Except for the use of visual voice mail they are able to make use of all features Project Fi provides, including the Project Fi app, which provides billing and usage info.
Admittedly, the SIM card must have originally been activated on a Fi-compatible device, but that applies to all Fi users, doesn’t it?
So, Fi users are able to use other devices despite what you propagate in your article.
WOW, thank you.
That’s not entirely true so don’t make people think it is.
True. As a project fi subscriber you can get a free SIM and place it in another device. What you failed to mention is there are tweaks that must be made to said non fi device in order to make it work. The device also has to be compatible with Sprint or T-Mobile or US Carrier. So if you don’t own a device compatible with those carriers, it won’t work. Also, some devices require 3rd party applications in order to make calls via the project fi SIM. Such as having to have a Google account in order to use Hangouts and using it to make calls.
So while your comment is basically correct, you left out a lot of important info. I know how all of this works because I tried it. I had my oldest son’s iPhone 6 on my fi. Also, it shares your data. It honestly wasn’t worth doing. If you have a tablet or cell that you really don’t use, sure; it’s a viable option. If you’re hoping to get great service on the cheap with this trick, don’t bother.
You miss one key point. These users get no network switching and have access only to TMO. Given that multi carrier support is one of the big Fi advatages, I’d argue that unless these users travel internationally they aren’t gaining much over other MVNOs such as Republic Wireless or Ting who can offer the same TMO network for less.
You might to keep researching too…there are a growing number of instances where Fi is suspending users who are using phones that are not approved for their network, since it violates their TOS.
Read the terms of service. You will be disconnected if you use unsupported hardware.
With a non-Google device you will be tied to a single carrier (T-mobile I think).
It’s not the billing and international support that makes Fi different — it’s the mesh-like cellular network support. A Google device can seamlessly switch between the different carriers supported by the Fi SIM.
I run an iPhone 6 on project fi without issues. Project fi like to use your wifi access as much as it can to perform phone calls texts… Most anything you do on a phone. Fi relies a lot on a seamless transition between wifi and data without dropping calls or stopping what you’re doing. IPhones aren’t compatible with this aspect of project fi.
That’s not entirely true. That’s a breach of Di’s terms of service and they can cancel your account if they find out. Also, it I works on TMO. It doesn’t work on Sprint or USC.
I cannot believe the article and how people just can’t seem to fathom experimentation with placing the sim in another device, haha. The comments here of people saying they’re switching just because they don’t want to buy a Pixel is staggering. Once activated, a Project Fi sim card works in most any phone via the T-Mobile network. I’ve used it in countless different androids and iphones with no issues or even a need to program apn. From there you use hangouts to text as usual.
I’m currently using a BlackBerry PRIV with no issue. I’ve used Samsung, HTC, Motorola, OnePlus, LG; if it’s sim unlocked (or Verizon), chances are it will work for service. I’ve even used it on BlackBerry phones (z30/Classic/Passport/9550) and able to get data and make calls without issue or programming.
When Google says that other devices aren’t supported, they’re referring to the internal switching between networks and wifi calling/texting. Obviously other phones can’t handle that, and Google certainly can’t open the floodgates of potential negative impact from people not understanding the miniscule change of experience. Despite that, they don’t lock down the sim cards. So people that DO understand are free to use whatever phone they want.
Touche! Great response, I have a Nexus 6, to date, it is by far the best phone I have ever had! Great size and as a technology consultant, from updating my resume to email attachments and portable hotspot. Fast, crisp and bloat free. Very disappointed in the Nexus line going away. I am on T-MOBILE – grandfathered in at $109 2 phones unlimited everything, free date a many countries… So WhatsApp calling is great! I am guessing eventually I’ll be forced to a pixel 2 in the near future as my phone is getting old and I expect the battery or memory to simply die one day…
Regards
John Ciociola
If you have a Nexus 6P take it to T-Mobile for a day and then switch to Sprint for free service for a year, unlimited data!
What?
As a frequent international traveler (I am in Panama at the moment), I have found Project Fi to be a tremendous asset, in cost savings and security. My Nexux 5X does everything I need extremely well. I will carp if I have to pay $600+ for a phone, and I will bemoan having to have a larger phone, if that holds true. In the end though, Project Fi is by far the best service for international travelers, even with its occasional hiccups.
I’ve used the Google Project FI from day 1 and have nothing bad to say about it. In fact, I find it is the best in term of customer service, network and data. In addition, try the data only sim card for your phone or tablet, you only pay what you use and it is an excellent tool for backup. I also find it is excellent foe international travel. The cost of data use is unchanged as you use in the USA. I use Nexus 6 and Nexus 6P and they are excellent phones. The service with regards to text messages, calling in the USA and international callings are the best of all. As a prepaid cell phone business owner, I know enough about cell phones and cell phone services, I’d recommend the Project FI to anyone who looks for the Carrier who owns the network and own the phones. There is NONE that I know of except Google!
I currently have a 5x (going on 2yrs), love Fi and do not want to part with 650$ for a pixel. Looks like I’ll start looking for a replacement…
Do more independent research. Once activated, a Project Fi sim card works in most any phone via the T-Mobile network. I’ve used it in countless different androids and iphones with no issues or even a need to program apn. From there you use hangouts to text as usual.
Thank you! I plan to get the Samsung Galaxy Note 8. Should my Fi sim card work in it also?
On T-Mobile only. Per the terms of service, if Google catches you on a non-FI phone, they will disconnect your service.
Boycott Chinese products!
I love my 6p but in another year of it is not supported and I can’t get a new supported sub $400 I may be switching to another network. Hopefully Google will come thru.
Why not just stick with the Nexus 5X until an inexpensive successor comes out? If you’re having performance issues, just do a factory reset. Mine is still performing great and I don’t plan on replacing it soon.
Anyway, I’m paying about $27/month right now…if I were to switch back to my old provider charging $80/month, I would pay enough extra to pay for a Pixel in just over a year anyway…
You can keep Project Fi on that new phone. Just move the SIM. It will use only T-Mobile, not Sprint or US Cellular, but you keep the same great rates and international support.
LOL I’m not going to repeat myself on how this lacks A LOT of information but, this comment is not entirely true. Please see my reply to another poster who said basically the same thing.
I originally signed up for Project Fi in advance to a trip last year to Italy and Sicily. I have a Nexus 6 which I love. Fi worked great overseas. I subsequently added my wife and her Nexus 5x. As you point out, now we are faced with devices which will be losing support. Not planning on other overseas trips soon so I might have to seek out other plans/plans/providers, unfortunately.
I’m ok w my 5x, would like it faster but def wanna stay under 400 as the phone has to be replaced in about a yr. I’m hoping that Spectrum will have smartphone in mid 2018 bc will then switch. Would rather have broadband based smartphone as the next phone I buy after 2018 will prob be 5g phone. Charter is doing well on mimo 5g and the beta tests have worked well. Spectrum will have symmetrical 5 gig up/down and only cmcsa can compete with that unless new technology comes out sooner. ty
If you had done more research, you would have discovered that for existing customers Project Fi SIM chips work just fine in any phone that supports GSM. Migrating from a Nexus 5X or 6P, for example, to nearly any other unlocked Android or Apple phone is as simple as inserting the chip. When my wife’s 5X quit recently, I had her back on T-Mobile’s GSM making calls with a first generation Motorola MotoX in about a minute.
As a Fi project participant with a 5X, I had constant sub standard phone service. Calls would drop, audio would garble and the phone often would not handshake between Wi-fi and cell towers at my home. I just switched to another carrier and am not having any problems. I figured that the problem was with the Nexus 5x and Google Fi sent me a refurb but the same problems existed. I would have stayed with them if a decent phone was available that didn’t cost the national debt…I have several friends who use G-Fi and aren’t having problems.
I’ve had many problems with phone call service as you have started as well. I’m not sure why I’ve put up with it. I also had several times that it has taken hours to get the data to work in foreign countries.
The cost and customer service is great, but that damn Wi-Fi calling switch is really bad.
I just left. What ever happened to the ability to pick up wifi signal not requiring a sign-in? Never happened.
P-Fi only hooks up to Wi-Fi that meets their security requirements. I have found that there are over a dozen places that I frequent but most of the WiFi you see listed do not. Think it depends on the router they are using.
I love Fi so far. I work in a basement in a downtown area so coverage is always bad. The combination of Sprint, T-Mobile and US Cellular (my best pull for coverage) made me ditch AT&T. On the Nexus 5x which will end software patches in late 2018. Hoping the Pixel or 6P drop in price when I decide to retire the Nexus 5x.
My thoughts exactly.
Actually OS updates for Nexus 6P end in September. Or at least what Google says on their site directly. Here. Read for yourself.
https://support.google.com/nexus/answer/4457705?hl=en#nexus_devices
They also will not support any customer calls/contact for support. Basically, you have a 600$ device that if it dies after September, you’re S.O.L.
You can just put the SIM into an unlocked phone, even iPhone, without switching carrier. It would be like switching to T-Mo. Since the coverage is already good for me, there won’t be much loss.
I’m using the OnePlus 3t on fi, you just loose the carrier switching and are locked to TMobile service but everything else still works
THANK YOU! Someone who provided actual info on using non fi devices.
I guess Nexus 6P ican be a great phone if you get one that works. I am on my 4th and this one will not update. Still running Android 6.0, complained and all I get is that it is a known issue.
I’ll be switching for an unlimited data plan
Exactly. Google is missing the mark by continuing the Nexus 5 type phones at an affordable price. Also, their data prices are no longer competitive.
I think you are missing an important point from the POV of the consumer. I speak with a modicum of authority since I am currently on Fi with a 6P.
Even though (using your figures) the Pixel IS expensive starting at $649.00, in the long-term because the service is so inexpensive the phone essentially pays for itself. Fi service for me averages $28.00 – $30.00/month (lite data user).
I certainly won’t let that be a roadblock to purchasing a Pixel OR keeping Fi as my service.
My Nexus 6p is a great phone. I’m keeping it if I get software updates or not. Not giving out software updates is just plain dishonest.
Yup. Fi is toast unless they get affordable phones for their affordable network.
I agree! Is there any set date on when these devices will no longer be supported? I am about to buy a refurbished 5x as a secondary phone line.
Yup. Right here.
https://support.google.com/nexus/answer/4457705?hl=en#nexus_devices
If you get a Fi data only sim, you can stick in an Android phone and make calls using Hangouts. Please correct me if I am wrong.
That is mostly correct. You have to make tweaks to your device and some times use 3rd party apps.
It’s like your in my mind. Any phone Google, just show me a future and I’ll hang in there.
But I won’t wait forever
I don’t want to leave Fi ! But I’m not paying$600 for a phone. Google, please help us!
The Fi service was good, but the battery on my Nexus 6P was deteriorating fast and a new and much cheaper Moto G5+ was available, which also had an enabled FM chip and a much stronger battery. The Moto should also be able to run the Fi service, and I would have stayed with Fi if they let me use the Moto.
Check out the r/nexus6p sub in Reddit… Battery issues are very common with the 6p and Google/hauwei are being very good about repairing/replacing even if the phone is a bit out of warranty.
Lack of support does not mean phones will melt. Much to do about (almost) nothing.
The only reason to go with Fi in the first place is because you hardly ever use your phone and want to save money. If that’s the case, why are you buying such an expensive phone? Some weird logic there. If you buy a decent phone you need a decent plan with generous data allowances. Or stick with a cheap flip phone. Fi has no place in the modern world. It never did.
Or because you are on wifi 99% of the time. Why pay so much more for unlimited data when you have WiFi at work and home? I am a very heavy user of my phone but seldom have a phone bill over $30-35.
The only time I use data is if I need to use maps or if I’m fiddling with my phone when I’m out and about – but most places offer WiFi in my area.
The service is fantastic for taking also – using it during a Caribbean cruise on the islands I still had a bill less than $40 and had great connectivity with no hassle…far better than the hoops my guy had to go through to get his phone to work!
That logic is crazy, I am on phone at least a total of 5 hours a day with work and pleasure.now days fi fits perfect because you can connect to WiFi anywhere. I use under 1gb every month since on fi 19 months now. If you stream Netflix all day maybe?
Well, you got one thing right: “Some weird logic there.”
I like Project Fi…it’s worth it to me compared with all the money I spent on T-MOBILE.
The billing is so much straight forward and the refund each month for data you don’t use is really MUCH BETTER than roll over minutes or some other useless benefits.
Um…I dont agree with this post. I dig ProjectFi and it still is better to me than than the others simply because of the model. Not to mention I have a 6P and after reviewing the Pixel XL specs they are too similar. I have no need to upgrade. Outside of Projectfi unless you are getting LG or similar the phone prices are not too much cheaper. It’s all a numbers game. I’d rather only pay for what I use. I get a credit every month.
There are more and more devices out there that have all the necessary hardware for full Fi support, LG G5 unlocked model, some Chinese phones, Samsung S7 and above. The problem is which Sprints registration system and with Google not being a transparent with this fact as they could be.
Project Fi Network doesn’t have unlimited data so I see no reason why people are locked onto it
Because I don’t need 40-45$ of unlimited data when I only pay 25$ for what I do use.
Basically after paying for 2 months of fi I’d only get ONE month of “unlimited”.
My wife and I have been on Project Fi for over a year and a half with 2 5X’s – the service has been very good at home in Florida as well as travel in Europe and the Caribbean.Mine is the 16GB version and would buy another 5X if they were available with 32GB or larger. Based on our needs, will stick with Fi and hold onto the old Nexus 5X’s until they no longer work then will look at Google supported “economy” devices. Have no need for the newest sparkly device – give me a solid phone that meets my needs.
That’s why I left project fi for that reason is because all of the new phones coming out most you can’t use. Google could just bake in project fi support in a future software update
My 5x died about a week ago out of warranty and Google sent me the last remaining 5x on the planet free I’m staying with them
I have a Nexus 6P and have been on Google Fi for about 16 months now. My average bill runs around $26 when I was used to paying over $80 on Verizon. No way I’m going back. I plan to get the Pixel 2 once it becomes available. But for now, my Nexus is still running smooth.
I actually just left Project Fi last week. My Nexus 6P broke, and I needed a phone right away. With no way to buy a Nexus or Pixel in a store, and no other options on Fi, I ended up getting a Samsung, and moving to T-Mobile. Project Fi was great, mostly the data thing, but their device selection will be their undoing.
Problem is that they are phasing out the 3rd party phones and only promoting their own brand. They sold all 5X and 6P inventories as well as refurbished phones, thus forcing people to chose between expensive Pixels or another provider.
In a pinch, you can always buy a new Fi phone on the secondary market (read: Amazon). My original Nexus 6 was dropped and i replaced it in a two days. Also, we’re not Iphone users — we don’t drop our phones and our screens are not spider webs of cracks and chips.
Project FI is much too high priced. I have a Nexus 5X and also a 6P. I switched to MintSim which has 1/10 of the LTE data cost as Project FI.
Project Fi is the best for international travelers… I hope this is not their first step to wind up this project:-(
Exactly. Pay $45/month for 2 lines. MetroPCS (T-Mobile) offers 2GB each for 2 lines for $50, so $5 more. Would love to see DIGITS on MetroPCS first. But I’ll hang tight for now in hopes of an US Android One announcement.
I was with Fi up until about 2 weeks ago. last month my 5x up and went to bootloop heaven. LG giving me the run-around getting it fixed. Then I used my backup LG G4 to run Fi. That was until the battery overheated and bricked it to. So now I’m on an Axon7 with att prepaid. Oh and for what I’d be paying Fi I’m getting 3 times the data. Fi can be great but it needs work.
If you travel overseas and don’t use any data and don’t care about paying $600+ for a phone then Fi is great,that’s not 95% of users.when Fi came out they had 2 somewhat affordable phones and a competitive plan,that has changed. I agree with the story the lack of choice of an affordable phones will get me to leave and don’t tell me I can put the Sim in a unlocked phone and use on T-Mobile, why not just go with T-Mobile I wouldn’t need to be worried about my data.Hey if you like Fi the way it is good for you enjoy,for a lot of us if they don’t evolve we will be gone, cheers!
Pay only for the data you use? $10 a gig? If you pay $10 a gig in this day and age something is wrong with you.No roaming in 100+ countries? I haven’t seen roaming charges on a bill in at least the past 10 years so that isn’t an argument either.Project Fi is nothing but an attempt by people to look “hip” or “cool” with the latest big thing.Its dying a horrible death and it’s fanboys don’t want to admit it.Theres really no advantage to it.With unlimited everything plans for as low as $40-$50 with 0 roaming charges in over 100 countries you would have to be a special kind of stupid to give Google your hard earned cash.Quit letting google trick you into crap services just because it has their name on it.
The whole point in switching to Fi was to SAVE MONEY. People, especially me, were sick and tired of dropping close to $100/month for service AND spending a small fortune on smart phones. So, if Fi is going up force me to get rid of my 5X and spend close to $700 for a new phone just because… Well that contradicts the initial reason for joining them in the first place. I would leave Fi especially since all the other carriers have become extremely competitive in pricing. Do the right thing Google, offer me a great phone for under $200. I miss the days where you get a free phone with a 2 year contract. I can care less about getting the latest iPhone for almost a grand. People have literally lost their minds.
It truly bothers me that people continue to say the Nexus 6p is a good device. I made the mistake of listening to Nexus fan boys and ended up with a $400 paper weight. It’s 2017 phones shouldn’t crash anymore. Let alone the fact that wifi is spotty at best. I may give the pixel 2 a shot but I don’t think I will look to Google for a premium device experience.
I quit project Fi last Monday after having to deal with their customer service. My 5x got the boot loop bug but I had Fi’s insurance on it. Called them up and setup a replacement. The next morning I get a email telling me that there is a supply issue and that it could be a couple weeks but they could give me a refund on the phone for what I first bought it for. So I called them and confirmed that I wanted the refund
They told me to mail my broken phone in and they would process it. I mailed it that same day and then ordered a pixel XL. A day later I get another email telling me that the pixel order was cancelled. I call up Google and they inform me that it looked like Fi had cancelled it and transfer me to Fi. Oops we cancelled the wrong phone sorry. This took over four hours on the phone and multiple reps to handle but I finally got the 5x replacement that was out of stock cancelled and the pixel ordered.
And just yesterday I received a 5x in the mail anyways… Called Fi and asked why. No clue why. Your refund shows it’s still being processed. .no I will not ever use Fi again. This was the short form of what it’s taken to get here btw.
The 5X is a solid phone, the 6P however is prone to problems. I am on my 2nd 5X and my 3rd 6P, the 6P for daily use and the 5X as a backup. Last time my 6P broke down within warranty, Google refunded the money due to a lack of replacement phones. That is where I understood that in future FI was only going to be on their own Pixel phone and no longer on 3rd party manufacturers. Hang on to your 5xs and 6Ps……………
This is a question I have been asking myself in recent months now that I have had my 5X for over a year. It makes no sense for Google to have a budget cell phone service and not provide a affordable cell phone to work on. I just hope the rumors of Android one devices coming to the US are true. That would be a good replacement for the Nexus program
Project Fi does not cater to the unwashed masses who can only afford “free phones” with 2-year contracts, We can’t be happier buying a brand new $700+ phone every year just to get the latest tech. The “lack of an affordable” option is a GOOD thing — you said it yourself, the service is doing well. We’re not “ditching” Project Fi, we’re upgrading our phones (like we do every year)! Out of support/update phones don’t mean they stop working. I keep all my previous generations of Google phones in case of an “accident.”
I bought the 6p as soon as it was available. Have had Fi for the whole time. I must say I miss the available upgrade in devices that other carriers offer. Most importantly is the network itself. I live in CA. I carry two devices (work & personal) I have had connection problems in downtown Los Angeles, Anaheim, among others that my (Verizon work phone) never has. Normally when I need it. Add the issues that the constant wifi has caused and I’m looking at other carriers.
I feel like the author clearly overlooked a few things with this article. First, all Project Fi users so far should have come in knowing that they are buying a phone outright with no discount due to a 2 year contract which means you will buy another phone to upgrade at full price too (and the price of devices decrease over time). Second, the price of service at Project Fi saves you a lot of money that makes buying that phone outright a lot easier. I save $100 a month having switched from Sprint ( I got a Nexus 5X on discount at nearly the same price as a $200 contract phone). So I have saved $2400.00 over the two years I’ve had Project Fi. My Nexus 5X is working just fine, so if I get another 6 months out of it (now $3000.00 in savings) and then buy a $650 Pixel (likely cheaper in 6 months), I’ve still saved $2350, over 2.5 years. Third, the first and second items points to users who understand that contacts are not in the users favor and you pay more for the the $200 contract phone in the long run. Fourth, Project Fi offers equipment protection plans like everyone else. Paying less per month for service makes it a lot easier to pay for the protection plan. The above things aside, Pixel prices will drop, Google will create new phone offerings.
When you stop and do some very simple calculations, it is very easy to see that Project Fi is the best deal out there.
I do have one gripe about Fi, because of the data plan, I try to consumes as little data as possible when not on wifi, if I’m on the road and use Google Maps or Waze, I feel like I’m being penalized/charged for using my phone because I’m being charged for actively using data. It’s an unusual mind set, I’ll admit that, but it’s something I frequently think about while out and about. I hope some day soon they offer an unlimited plan that’s affordable. Or at least allow you to switch to 3G without it counting towards your monthly allotment. That would be the perfect plan for me.
I love Fi for the most part. But Sprint sent a flyer with a “1 year free, unlimited” plan, if you bring your own devices, Nexus included. Pretty hard to beat free.
I don’t travel much for now, so if it has acceptable coverage, I will probably grab it.
No, I don’t work for Spring or anyone in the industry.
I just left Project Fi. It was hard to leave but we got service with Mint Sim for $20/mo and that includes 5GB LATE/mo. You have to buy a whole year up front and the customer service is not stellar like Fi. It runs on T-Mobile and I get 8Mbps-25Mbps download speeds. Really can’t beat this deal ACMINTSIM20 for 20% off.
LTE not LATE
My wife is using Fi on her Galaxy S6 edge plus and it works just fine. Of course I activated her Sim on my Pixel phone. Where there is will, there is way.