After years of limited availability, Google’s wireless phone service has expanded to include iPhones, as well as many more Android devices.
And it has a new name: What used to be called Project Fi is now just Google Fi.
“Starting today, Project Fi is available on more phones: our plan now works with the majority of Android devices and iPhones,” says an official blog post from Google. Compatible models now include the iPhone 5S, iPhone 6, iPhone SE, and newer.
iOS support is in beta now, though. And the company warns “Since this is the first time Google Fi is available for iPhones, there are a few extra steps to get set up, which we’ll walk you through in the Google Fi iOS app.”
Be aware that iPhones can’t take advantage of one of the service’s more advanced features: seamlessly switching between different cellular networks. That requires an Android device specifically designed for it.
Cell service actually comes from Sprint, T-Mobile, and US Cellular. iPhones will connect to either Sprint or T-Mobile.
Perks of Google Fi
Google Fi charges $10/GB of data, up to 6GB. There’s a $20 fee for voice and text, so the monthly fee for using between 8GB and 15GB is always $80.
The service throttles the data speed after 15GB is used. However those willing to pay $10/GB above 15GB can return to full speed.
Google Fi includes data coverage in 170 countries, spam protection, and data-only SIMs for your iPad or other device.
To encourage people to switch to its service today, Google is offering a $200 credit. Or those who purchase a phone through Google Fi will get travel gift cards equal to the cost of the device.
