Video: Getting to Know Google's Wireless Service, Project Fi
Nick Fox, vice president for communications products at Google, prepares a presentation on Project Fi, in Mountain View, Calif. Marcio Jose Sanchez/AP
A potentially smarter way to connect your smartphone.
Imagine a wireless service that always makes sure emails send and calls don't get dropped. That might soon be a reality.
Launched in April 2015, the mobile wireless service uses local Wi-Fi networks to allow users to make calls, send texts and browse the Web. Google promises data encryption to keep user information secure when using any public Wi-Fi network.
When Wi-Fi isn't available, Project Fi will switch to Sprint or T-Mobile's cellular network. Currently, Fi works only on Google's flagship device, the Nexus 6, which has a special radio inside that supports several cell networks and works with a special Project Fi SIM card that also supports multiple networks.
One of the project's biggest selling points is a simpler pricing structure. The basic plan is $20 a month, with an extra $10 for every 1 GB of data you use per month. Google hopes that putting Project Fi and its affordable pricing structure on the market will spurn other wireless companies to offer better services.
If you're ready for Project Fi, you can request an invite from Google here.
To learn some more about Project Fi, check out the video below from CNET:
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