News
Internet giant knocks $150 off Nexus 5X price to attract new MVNO customers.
Google this week made its Project Fi MVNO service available to everyone, tempting prospective customers with a discounted smartphone.
When Google launched Project Fi in April 2015, it was made available on an invitation-only basis.
"We’re excited to be exiting our invitation-only mode and opening up Project Fi so that people across the U.S. can now sign up for the service without having to wait in line for an invite," said Simon Arscott, product manager of Project Fi, in a blog post on Monday.
As the name suggests, WiFi plays a prominent role in Fi. It comes with WiFi Assistant, a tool that automatically connects to open WiFi hotspots. According to Arscott, more than 50% of Project Fi users connect this way on a weekly basis.
When WiFi is not available, Project Fi connects to either T-Mobile US or Sprint’s cellular network. Project Fi customers can also roam onto mobile networks in more than 120 countries without paying roaming fees.
In a bid to entice new Project Fi customers, Google cut the price of its LG-made Nexus 5X smartphone to $199 from $349.
"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," Arscott said.
