Switching cell phone carriers is a great way to get better service, if you find you're paying too much for your current plan. You think it will take a lot of time, money, and effort, but switching plans is simple. In this article, I'll show you how to switch to Google Fi so you can save money on your cell phone plan.
Why Should I Switch To Google Fi?
If you're paying a lot for your current plan and not getting much back in terms of coverage and quality of service, then that's a good sign it's time to switch carriers. You may get better coverage at a better price when you switch to Google Fi.
Google Fi is a T-Mobile MVNO (mobile virtual network operator), meaning they lease coverage from T-Mobile. Google Fi is able to offer great deals on cell phone plans because they don't have to pay to build and maintain their own nationwide network. Check out our wireless coverage maps to see if Google Fi has good service in your neck of the woods!
Choose A Google Fi Plan
Google Fi has great options for wireless data plans, but which one should you choose? Check out our cell phone comparison tool to find the Google Fi plan that best meets your needs. Google Fi offers a pay-per-GB Flexible Plan as well as two unlimited plans. We love the Simply Unlimited Plan for families, as four lines only costs $20 / line.
Can I Keep My Cell Phone?
If you're bringing your own phone to Google Fi's network and your device isn't carrier unlocked, you may not be able to use it on Google Fi's network. First, check with your carrier to see how to carrier unlock your device. You'll need to meet their criteria and then contact them to get the job done. They usually require you to pay off all your fees, be with their service for a certain amount of time, and require that the phone not be associated with any theft or fraud.
Is My Phone Compatible With Google Fi?
Not all phones are compatible with every wireless network. Before you switch to Google Fi, use their compatibility tool to make sure your phone will work on their network.
To complete the check, you'll need your phone's IMEI, or international mobile equipment identity. Your IMEI can easily be found by dialing #06#, but you can also follow the instructions below to find your IMEI number on Android and iOS.
Find IMEI On Android
You'll find the IMEI in your Settings. Swipe down from the top of the screen and tap the gear icon to open Settings. Scroll down and tap About Phone. Your phone's IMEI will be displayed on the screen.
Find IMEI On iOS
Open Settings and tap General -> About. Your phone's IMEI will be listed next to IMEI.
Switch To Google Fi At The Right Time
Don't switch to Google Fi until you've paid off any contracts you are held to. You also should try to subscribe to your new plan a few days before the end of your old plan's monthly data cycle. Don't cancel your old plan until you've managed to transfer everything over, like your phone number.
Keep Your Phone Number When You Switch To Google Fi
If you want to keep your current phone number when you switch to Google Fi, you'll need to follow their instructions and guidelines. It's a good idea to gather your appropriate account information from your current carrier to make this process easier.
It shouldn't take too long to transfer your number, but you should leave a few days before the end of your monthly data period for the number transfer to occur before you cancel your old plan.
You've Switched To Google Fi!
You're ready to switch to Google Fi! Thank you for reading this article, and please share it with a friend or family member who might be considering switching cell phone carriers. If you have any questions about switching carriers, please leave a comment below.
