Project Fi, Google’s own wireless service finally launches

This rumour, like rain on a cloudy day, has been circling for some time about Project Fi and now it is here. On Wednesday, Google finally launched its mobile phone service for voice and data use, Project Fi. For now, Project Fi is only available by invite only and works exclusively with Google’s Nexus 6 Android phone.

According to Google, Project Fi is a programme to deliver a fast, easy wireless experience in close partnership with leading carriers, hardware makers, and its users. When connected to Project Fi, all of your voice and data activities will use that network. The service seamlessly switches between networks, using new technology to intelligently connect you to the fastest network. As you walk, run, drive, it connects to the fastest network, whether it is Wifi or Google’s partner LTE networks. This works for phone calls too. If you are on a call over Wifi and walk outside, walking further from the signal, Project Fi detects the strength of the signal and when it is weak, it transfers the call over to a cell network to keep the conversation going without any interruptions.

Google says that it also encrypts data on Wifi networks, which is one of the benefits a carrier connection typically provides. The plan for Project Fi begins with Fi basics for $20 per month, which covers unlimited domestic talk and text, unlimited international texts, low-cost international calls, WiFi tethering with coverage in 120+ countries. Users can add on this with and the data cost are at a flat rate of $10 per GB for data.

The company highlights that customers will never have to pay for unused data.

“At the end of each month, you’ll get your unused data credited in dollars and cents, so you only pay for what you use.” The company says. The project is interlinked with Google Hangouts, meaning it will allow users to make calls from their number, be it a mobile phone, or any device that has Hangout.