Project Fi

Google is already Internet Service Provider and pay-TV operator. Now, it’s starting its adventure as mobile virtual network operator (MVNO). Frankly, it was about time to be able to Google a phone call. The long-awaited cell phone service – Project Fi is finally here. For now, the product can be considered an experiment; Even more so considering that it will be available only to people using Google’s flagship phone, the Nexus 6. This choice doesn’t only limit its reach, but also doesn’t make Google a serious competitor to Verizon, AT&T, and other wireless service providers. The service offers the same basic functionality as traditional wireless carriers: voice, text, and Internet access – but at a lower price than many of the plans out there. It can be called an attempt to combine cellular calls and VoIP calls (like those offered by Skype) into one phone number and service. “Wherever you’re connected to Wi-Fi — whether that’s at home, your favorite coffee shop or your Batcave — you can talk and text like you normally do,” wrote Nick Fox, Google’s vice president of communications products, in a blog post. “If you leave an area of Wi-Fi coverage, your call will seamlessly transition from Wi-Fi to cell networks so your conversation doesn’t skip a beat.” Project Fi is designed to be able to switch between different high-speed wireless networks operated by Sprint and T-Mobile, choosing the stronger one in any given area. Moreover, phones on Project Fi will switch from cellular networks to Wi-Fi networks when available to place calls or access the Internet without using the customer’s data plans. The service will also bounce around between devices, allowing users to talk and text on smartphones, tablets and laptops. Google won’t be building its own cell phone...