TextNow just unveiled unlimited free calling and texting -- but data is an optional extra

 TextNow just unveiled unlimited free calling and texting -- but data is an optional extra

One could argue that phone without a knowledge plan isn't good for much, but that's not true. Remember voice calls? Yep, still a thing. And text messaging? whilst important lately. Meanwhile, Wi-Fi is about ubiquitous, so I'd argue that you simply simply can get by just about without data -- and save much cash within the method.

See, a knowledge plan is that the only costliest a neighborhood of operating a mobile. which is what makes TextNow's new offer so compelling: you will get unlimited ad-supported calls and text messages free. there's no data included (more thereon below), though calls do believe voice-over-IP. Virtually all other apps that allow free calls and messaging (Google Voice, Facebook Messenger, WhatsApp, etc.) require Wi-Fi or a typical data plan.

SEE IT AT TEXTNOW

So, as an example, if you've got an old phone lying around and wish to remain it acts as a backup, here's a free because of doing this. Similarly, you'll provide a phone to a toddler or other beloved who just needs the way to stay in-tuned, without the added expense of a monthly bill.

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Just to be clear, any phone running TextNow's free plan can still do app and internet things; they'll just need Wi-Fi to undertake to them.

Who's paying for this free lunch?

As noted above, this is often an ad-supported service, one that operates on Sprint's network. Those ads take the form of banners within the TextNow app and occasional videos (some with sound) that appear after a call. You'll also see full-page pop-up ads, though only one occasion per day at the foremost, according to a TextNow spokesperson.

If you'd like an ad-free experience, you'll pay $9.99 per month. That also nets you voicemail transcription and unlimited photo and video history.

As for data, TextNow offers two options: 2GB per month for $19.99 or unlimited for $39.99. Those rates are competitive, though if you'd like a thought that has data, there are cheaper options. Tello, as an example, offers 2GB for $14 per month, while Unreal Mobile gives you 3GB for $20. Both included unlimited calls and messages, an equivalent as TextNow.

Of course, maybe you simply want data for a month or two at a time, after which you will always revert to the free plan. like most smaller carriers, TextNow requires no contract.

There are TextNow apps for Android and iOS; the free plan is out there on both platforms. you'd sort of a Sprint-compatible phone and SIM card; if you're missing the latter, you'll buy an activation kit for $9.99. TextNow also sells a selection of refurbished and lower-end phones, a few of them priced as low as $59.99.

SEE IT AT TEXTNOW

Does it work?

I pulled an old Motorola Moto X4 out of a drawer. Luckily, it had a compatible Sprint SIM card, though I did encounter a few issues with TextNow setup. First, my account wouldn't activate. Then calls wouldn't undergo. It took slightly hoop-jumping, including trips to varied support pages and phone-settings menus, but eventually, I got everything working.

And now I even have a functional extra phone that's not costing me a dime to figure. When Wi-Fi is out there, TextNow defaults thereto. When it is not, I can still make and take phone calls and send and receive text messages. The service even includes free calls to Canada, conference calling, voicemail, and group texting.

This could be a true money-saver for a couple of users and a lifesaver for others.

Your thoughts?

Update 2/4/2020: according to TextNow, this free plan does believe voice-over-IP (VoIP) technology using Sprint cellular data. It's available anywhere on the Sprint Nationwide Network; you will see the coverage map here. However, data roaming isn't included, so your only option for service outside the network would get on Wi-Fi. Here's what a TextNow rep told me: "For most customers, our coverage and repair are getting to be indistinguishable from that of the Sprint cellular network, and will be better in some circumstances."

Update 2/6/2020: slightly further clarification: TextNow does use "real" SMS and MMS, which is significant for things like shortcode messaging and two-factor authentication. Said the TextNow rep: "Messaging does run through the app but delivers over real SMS and MMS channels with all the most operators within the US and Canada. TextNow also supports most shortcodes (5-digit numbers used primarily for business-to-consumer messaging and advertising), a touch like normal carriers do."