Latest news with #Visible
Android Authority
5 days ago
- Android Authority
This prepaid provider now supports cellular Pixel, Apple, and Galaxy Watch models
C. Scott Brown / Android Authority TL;DR Visible has expanded its cellular watch support to include the new Galaxy Watch 8 lineup, in addition to existing support for Pixel and Apple Watches. Officially, only the Galaxy Watch 8, 8 Classic, and Ultra are supported, but there are rumors that older Galaxy Watches may eventually be added. In addition to the Galaxy Watch 8, you'll also find support for Pixel Watch 2 or newer, as well as the Apple Watch Series 4 or newer. While prepaid carriers have typically lagged behind the big three when it comes to cellular watch support, that's become less true over the last year or so. Brands like US Mobile, Google Fi, and a few others have started to embrace cellular watch support, though usually for just one or two brands or specific models. If you're looking for the widest cellular watch support among prepaid carriers, there are few options better than Visible. While Visible initially only supported the Apple Watch, that changed just last month with the addition of Pixel Watch support. Now, the Verizon-owned prepaid brand is extending its support even further with the arrival of the Galaxy Watch 8. As first spotted by ilikewolves99 on the Visible subreddit, the latest Visible app update notes mention that Visible is now compatible with the Galaxy Watch 8, 8 Classic, and Ultra. For now, there's no way to activate an older Galaxy Watch, but several commenters in the original thread said customer service reps claimed that other models should eventually work, though they aren't in the system yet. Of course, this could just be a few lower-level customer service reps speaking out of turn, so take the promise of wider Galaxy Watch support with a grain of salt for now. If you need cellular watch support but don't want to buy the new Galaxy Watch 8, Visible also supports older Pixel Watches (back to the Pixel Watch 2) and Apple Watch Series 4 or later. Got a tip? Talk to us! Email our staff at Email our staff at news@ . You can stay anonymous or get credit for the info, it's your choice.
Tom's Guide
6 days ago
- Business
- Tom's Guide
What is Lyca Mobile: Plans, coverage and what you need to know about this low-cost phone carrier
In a wireless phone market filled with low-cost carriers, Lyca Mobile can sail under the radar of would-be customers — an odd development given that the company has been providing wireless service in the U.S. for more than a decade. Should you take another look at Lyca Mobile for your wireless coverage? Given the company's competitive rates — particularly when you pay for a year's worth of service in advance — it may be a good idea if you're looking to lower your monthly cell phone bill. With Lyca operating in multiple countries, here's what you need to know about Lyca Mobile and its wireless service in the U.S. As an MVNO, or mobile virtual network operator, Lyca Mobile doesn't own and operate its own towers. Instead, it turns to another carrier's network to provide cellular coverage for talk, text and data, including 5G service. In Lyca's case, that service comes from T-Mobile, even after the companies settled a long-standing dispute over their arrangement in October 2024. At the time, multiple reports claimed Lyca Mobile would migrate its service to AT&T's network, but when I checked with the carrier in summer 2025, T-Mobile remains the network provider. That's good news for Lyca customers, as mobile-testing firm Ookla named T-Mobile as the fastest network in the U.S. for the first two months of 2025. Both RootMetrics and Opensignal have T-Mobile as the fastest carrier, too, and it's widely accepted that T-Mobile has the most extensive 5G reach right now. In my experience testing service from other MVNOs, including T-Mobile's Metro by T-Mobile and Verizon's Visible, I've found that performance through an MVNO tends to pretty closely match the service you'd get directly from the parent carrier, though you can see speeds slowed down when there's a lot of traffic on the network. I haven't personally tested Lyca's performance, but I imagine the experience would be similar to other MVNOs. Some MVNOs sell phones, but that's not Lyca Mobile's modus operandi. Instead, you bring your own device to the carrier, making it an ideal option if you've got one of the best unlocked phones. You can check ahead of time to see if your phone is compatible with Lyca's mobile service, using the company's IMEI checker. There are instructions there for checking both iPhone and Android devices. Lyca Mobile has a whole host of plans. Looking at the carrier's plan page, which is covered with various promotional offers, data bonus and options for longer term coverage than just month-to-month service, might make you kinda dizzy. To cut through some of that clutter, I've broken down Lyca's monthly plans into the chart below. Each plan features unlimited talk and text along with a specified data amount, and escalating perks as you opt for higher-priced plans. Monthly prepaid plans Price per month Perks 500MB $15 International talk/text to 100 countries 3GB $19 International talk/text to 100 countries 5GB $23 International talk/text to 100 countries 25GB $29 International talk/text to 100 countries; 10GB hotspot data Unlimited Plus $49 40GB of high-speed data; International talk/text to 100 countries; 10GB hotspot data Unlimited Pro $59 60GB of high speed data; International talk/text to 100 countries; 25GB hotspot data A basic plan at Lyca starts at $15/month and includes a mere 500MB of data. For just $4 extra each month, you can expand that data pool to 3GB, with 5GB ($23/month) and 25GB ($29/month) also available. Go over your monthly cap and your speeds are throttled. In addition, Lyca has two unlimited data plan options. Unlimited Plus ($49/month) lets you enjoy up to 40GB of high-speed data while the Unlimited Pro offering ($59) ups that data cap to 60GB. It's not uncommon for even unlimited data plans to cap the amount of high-speed data you can consume each billing cycle, so Lyca is just following a widespread practice among carriers. Each plans include talk and text to other countries, with plans from the 25GB option on adding hotspot data as a perk. Unlimited Pro offers the biggest allotment of hotspot data at 25GB. Like Mint Mobile, Lyca lowers your monthly rate when you pay for your service in advance, with Lyca offering different pricing tiers at 3, 6 and 12 months. Take that $23/month 5GB option. You can save $48 total by paying $21 for 3 months of service in advance. The savings go up to $54 total by paying $84 for 6 months of service and $120 when you buy a full year for $156. There are 10GB and 12GB plans available in 3-, 6- and 12-month payments, too. Lyca also has a variety of buy-one-month-get-one-month offers as of this writing. Lyca Mobile: 25GB of data for $29/monthOur pick for Lyca Mobile's best plan gives you a lot of data — 25GB — for a little less than $30. You also get 10GB of hotspot data with this plan as well as international talk and text to 100 countries. It's just one of many plans at Lyca, where options ranges from a mere 500MB to unlimited data plans. The carrier also offers discounts if you pay for plans in 3-, 6- and 12-month increments with special offers tacking bonus data on to plans, as well. Lyca Mobile allows you to add additional lines of data to just one of its plans, the one with 25GB of data. Even better, the cost of each new line drops as you add extra lines. While your first line of Lyca's 25GB plan starts at $29, the cost of the second line drops to $14. A third line costs another $10, while the fourth line is available for $7. Add it all up, and a family of four would pay a total of $60/month with each member getting their own 25GB data pool. Among the best family cell phone plans, Total Wireless has been our pick, with four lines of unlimited data costing a total of $110, which is $50 more than what Lyca would charge. Total's plan comes with more data and slightly better perks — in addition to more hotspot data, Total's plan also provides six months of Disney Plus and discounts on phone upgrades if you stick with the carrier for a year. But Lyca's family plan definitely competes on value. When you pay for your cell phone plans in 6- or 12-month chunks, Lyca becomes a more attractive option. While we're comparing Lyca Mobile to what other low-cost carriers charge, let's look at prices for just one line of data. For our best cheap cell phone plans, we look at offerings under $40/month, and Lyca's 25GB plan for $29 would be your best option there. You can get unlimited data from Mint Mobile for roughly the same amount — Mint charges $30/month — but to get that rate, you'd need to pay for a full year of service in advance. Boost and Visible both have unlimited data plans for $25/month without requiring big upfront payments, and Visible's best unlimited data plan costs $35/month — less than the $49/month you'd pay for unlimited data at Lyca. It's when you pay for your cell phone plans in 6- or 12-month chunks that Lyca becomes a more attractive option than the competition. As noted, Lyca charges $156 total for 12 months of its 5GB plan — that works out to $13/month. Mint's 5GB plan requires a $180 upfront payment for a full year of coverage, so you're essentially saving $2 per month by opting for Lyca. Lyca Mobile currently has a rating of 3.9 out of 5 on TrustPilot based on 8,600-plus customers reviews. At Amazon, where you can buy SIM cards from Lyca, customers give the carrier a 3.8 out of 5 rating, based on 200-plus reviews. Customer reviews tend to praise the wide variety of options and the ease of setting up an account. The most consistent complaints revolve around customer service, particularly the speed of responses. Lyca Mobile seems geared toward a very specific type of wireless customer — one who's willing to move their current phone to a new carrier and doesn't mind paying in advance if it means the best rate. Lyca isn't the overall cheapest option around for phone coverage and some low-cost carriers offer better perks, but if you're looking for a specific type of plan, you may find a lot of value in what Lyca Mobile has to offer.
Android Authority
11-07-2025
- Business
- Android Authority
Is Google Fi a better value than Visible in 2025?
Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority For years, I've considered Visible the best value in the US wireless market, thanks to its low pricing and generous data allotments. Even better, its Plus and Plus Pro plans come fairly close to matching Verizon's postpaid speeds. Of course, one of its biggest advantages can also be a downside: it's owned by Verizon. While this is comforting for former Verizon subscribers turned off by constant price increases, not everyone wants to use a brand directly owned by a major network. If you're looking for an independent alternative to Visible and don't mind venturing beyond Verizon's network, I highly recommend considering Google Fi. With the introduction of Visible's Plus Pro plan and Google Fi's new offerings, I've spent the last few months using both carriers (via a dual-SIM configuration) to compare them in 2025. Both have strong pros and cons, but which provides the best value? Let's dive in. Google Fi vs Visible at a glance Price Data priority Smartwatch support Other extras Video quality Visible Basic Price $25 per month Data priority - Unlimited deprioritized data - Unlimited hotspot capped at 5Mbps Smartwatch support Apple Watch and Pixel Watch support for $10 a month Other extras - Unlimited talk/text to - Mexico and Canada - Global Pass for $5/day Video quality 480p (SD) Visible Plus Price $35 per month Data priority - Unlimited premium data - Unlimited hotspot capped at 10Mbps Smartwatch support Apple Watch and Pixel Watch support for $10 a month Other extras - Unlimited talk/text to - Mexico and Canada - 2GB of data per day in Mexico/Canada - Calling to 30+ countries - 12 Global pass days annually Video quality 720p (HD) Visible Plus Pro Price $45 per month Data priority - Unlimited premium data - Unlimited hotspot - (15GB speed cap) Smartwatch support Apple Watch and Pixel Watch support included Other extras - Unlimited talk/text to Mexico and Canada - 2GB of data per day in Mexico/Canada - Calling to 85+ countries (500 minutes a month) - Texting to 200+ countries - 24 Global pass days annually Video quality 4k UHD Fi Unlimited Essentials Price - $35/m for one line - $30/m per line for 2 - $27/m per line for 3 - $23/m per line for 4+ Data priority - 30GB of high priority T-Mobile data - No hotspot access Smartwatch support Pixel Watch and Galaxy Watch support included Other extras - VPN by Google Video quality 480p (SD) Fi Unlimited Standard Price - $50/m for one line - $40/m per line for 2 - $30/m per line for 3 - $25/m per line for 4+ Data priority - 50GB of high priority T-Mobile data - 25GB of hotspot access Smartwatch support Pixel Watch and Galaxy Watch support included Other extras - Affordable calling rates from US to over 200 destinations - Unlimited data in Canada and Mexico - VPN by Google Video quality 480p (SD) Fi Unlimited Premium Price - $65/m for one line - $55/m per line for 2 - $45/m per line for 3 - $40/m per line for 4+ Data priority - 100GB of high priority T-Mobile data - 50GB of hotspot access Smartwatch support - Pixel Watch and Galaxy Watch support included - Limited tablet and laptop support as well! Other extras - Free calling in the US to 50 destinations - Free texting in the US to 200+ countries - 50GB of high-speed data to over 200 countries - Unlimited data in Canada and Mexico - VPN by Google Video quality 480p (SD) Plans and pricing Visible is more affordable for users needing only a few lines. Google Fi offers more benefits, typically costing the same or less for those with four or more lines. Both Google Fi and Visible offer three unlimited plans. Google Fi also has a limited data option, which I only recommend for frequent travelers needing a secondary line. Therefore, we'll focus exclusively on unlimited offerings here. Visible's service ranges from $25 to $45 per month per line, regardless of line count. New customers can currently save an additional $5 per month for one year on any Visible plan using code SAVE5. Google Fi charges between $35 and $65 per line initially, but becomes increasingly cost-effective as you add more lines. With four or more lines, you'll pay $23-$40 per month per line, similar to Visible's pricing. Prioritization, speeds, and network reliability Visible is ideal if you need truly unlimited data, as you can easily exceed 100GB per month without throttling. Google Fi offers higher network priority at a lower price point. Visible Plus and Plus Pro provide unlimited data with mid-range or higher Verizon postpaid priority, whereas Visible Basic experiences noticeable throttling during network congestion. In contrast, Google Fi offers the same priority as mid-range or higher T-Mobile postpaid service, meaning its entry-level plan typically performs better than Visible Basic. The big difference here is that Google Fi isn't truly unlimited. Depending on the plan, you receive 30-100GB of high-speed data, after which speeds reduce significantly to 256kbps, barely sufficient even for email. Of course, Visible and Google Fi Wireless run on two different networks, and so your exact speeds and network performance can vary significantly depending on whether you live in an area with stronger Verizon or T-Mobile coverage. If all things are equal, Google Fi Wireless will likely provide the best experience for entry-level users, but those who use a lot of data will want to consider Visible Plus or Plus Pro instead. In my experience, both performed similarly overall, with slightly higher raw speeds on Visible due to stronger Verizon coverage in my area. On a recent trip to St. Louis, Missouri, both carriers consistently achieved 100Mbps or higher, even during peak hours. Phone selection, payment plans, and insurance Ryan Haines / Android Authority Visible offers a wider range of devices, including iPhones, and discounted pricing on select models. Google Fi doesn't carry iPhones but typically provides better discounts and promotions, including occasional free phones. Visible stocks over 40 phones, spanning flagship to entry-level models from Apple, Google, Samsung, and other brands. Google Fi offers just 16 devices, mainly Google or Samsung products, without any Apple devices, although you can bring your own. Visible offers insurance for all its devices, while Google Fi typically limits insurance options to Pixel phones. Third-party providers like Assurant or Progressive remain viable alternatives for both carriers. Financing terms for devices are comparable. Visible promotions are somewhat limited, though occasionally substantial, such as the Razr 2025 for $149. Google Fi, however, currently offers the Pixel 9a for free and substantial instant savings ($200-$300) on select devices. Customer service experience C. Scott Brown / Android Authority Google Fi provides both online and phone support, although many subscribers feel service quality has declined. Visible offers only online support, which may not be ideal for everyone. You won't find in-store customer service with either option on this list, but if you prefer phone-based communication, you'll want to consider Google Fi, as Visible only offers online contact options. In fact, everything must be done online, from ordering your device to changing plans, and more. Google Fi is also largely online-based, as there are no official retailers that sell Google Fi devices or plans, but you can at least perform certain account functions by talking directly to a customer service rep over the phone. Truth be told, Google Fi used to have excellent customer service in its early years, but anyone who has used it for years will notice that service times are longer and customer interactions are typically a little less smooth than they were a few years ago. Aside from the lack of phone-based support, Visible shouldn't be too different when it comes to customer support. Either provider typically is going to require a bit more DIY research than postpaid or even prepaid carriers like Metro by T-Mobile and Cricket, which offer in-store support. Special features Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority Google Fi excels in international and smart device connectivity features. Visible offers impressive streaming quality and solid international benefits, albeit fewer than Google Fi. Visible has always been up-front about its status as a no-frills carrier, though despite this, it actually has a surprising amount of extra benefits. Here's a quick rundown: High-quality streaming (up to 4K UHD). Unlimited talk/text to Mexico and Canada, with additional international options depending on the plan. One or two monthly Global Passes (up to 12 accumulated) for additional travel destinations. Free smartwatch support on top-tier plans ($10 add-on for others). As good as all of this might sound, Google Fi surpasses Visible in most areas. The only major exception is streaming resolution, which Google Fi typically caps at around 480p (though 720p is sometimes possible depending on the service's data speed requirements). Not only does Google Fi offer a few international features for its Unlimited Standard plan, but you'll find that the Unlimited Premium tier gives you 50GB of high-speed data per month for use in almost any country your heart desires visiting. There's also a built-in VPN, free smartwatch support on all plans, and even limited tablet and laptop connectivity offered on its Premium plan. Which carrier is the better value for you? Joe Maring / Android Authority Despite having similar pricing, especially for families, the two carriers offer fairly different experiences, and so determining the better value depends on what you are looking for. Both offer a decent range of international options and connectivity options, but there are major differences when it comes to data allotment, the network used, customer service, and more. Ultimately, I would pick Visible over Google Fi Wireless if any of the following best describes you: Verizon works better in your area than T-Mobile. You are a heavy data user who doesn't want to worry about losing high-speed access if you hit a cap. You are looking to finance an iPhone or use an Apple Watch, as you won't get either of these options with Fi Wireless. If you don't need a family plan, you'll find that Google Fi is significantly more expensive. Visible - Plans starting at $25 a month for a limited time! Visible - Plans starting at $25 a month for a limited time! Aiming to simplify and reduce the costs of mobile connectivity, Visible by Verizon is a simplified carrier that offers limited plans, no hidden fees, and connectivity to the Verizon network. See price at Visible Save $5.00 On the flipside, I recommend Google Fi over Visible for any of the following: You don't need truly unlimited data and are content with a 30-100GB plan. Those who frequently travel internationally will find Google Fi's international features are more flexible, even allowing you to keep service while on multi-month international trips in some cases. If you have a Galaxy Watch, you'll find Google Fi supports it and the Pixel Watch, while Visible only supports the latter. You are interested in free phone promotions and other deals that aren't as common with Visible. If you are looking for tablet or laptop connectivity, Fi Unlimited Premium stands out. Ultimately, Google Fi and Visible are easily two of the best values in the wireless market, but the true victor is such an individualized thing. For my money, I still prefer Visible, but it's a very close race. Looking for even more options? I also recommend checking out Cricket Wireless if you want brick-and-mortar support or US Mobile if you like the idea of a carrier that supports all three major networks and can even let you use two of them at once. Google Fi - Unlimited plans starting at $50 a month Google Fi - Unlimited plans starting at $50 a month Google Fi Wireless offers flexible plans, superior coverage, and seamless device integration for a unique mobile experience. See price at Google Fi
Android Authority
29-06-2025
- Business
- Android Authority
Need a good alternative to the big three? These carriers are my top 3 recommendations
Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority For years, many of us have gone directly to the big carriers for phone service. But with rising costs and the gradual disappearance of extras like streaming perks, is it time to consider an alternative? While it's true that Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile control the only three mobile networks with wide national coverage, there are plenty of other carriers that piggyback off this same infrastructure. These providers can offer much cheaper alternatives to traditional postpaid plans, yet you'll still find many of the same features, as the gap between prepaid and postpaid continues to shrink. While there are dozens of great prepaid carriers highlighted in our best carrier guide, I wanted to focus on just four that I tend to recommend over postpaid. The best Verizon alternative: Visible Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority While there are several decent Verizon alternatives, Visible is my top recommendation if you want to use Big Red's network and are looking for truly unlimited data. The only real downside is that Visible requires a bit more self-setup and troubleshooting than some other carriers on this list. I usually only recommend it to people who are at least somewhat tech-savvy, don't mind looking up help online, or have a friend or family member who can help if needed. What you'll love about Visible Priority access with Visible Plus : The base plan includes deprioritized data, but the Visible Plus and Plus Pro plans offer the same prioritization level as Verizon's postpaid service. The carrier makes a few other changes that can potentially lead to slightly slower speeds than postpaid Verizon, but the difference will be virtually unnoticeable in most cases. : The base plan includes deprioritized data, but the Visible Plus and Plus Pro plans offer the same prioritization level as Verizon's postpaid service. The carrier makes a few other changes that can potentially lead to slightly slower speeds than postpaid Verizon, but the difference will be virtually unnoticeable in most cases. Big savings with annual pricing : Visible's pricing ranges from $25–$45 a month, which is already cheap, but you can save up to an additional $90 per year with an annual plan. : Visible's pricing ranges from $25–$45 a month, which is already cheap, but you can save up to an additional $90 per year with an annual plan. Truly unlimited data with hotspot access : All plans include unlimited data and hotspot usage (hotspot will see usable but throttled speeds). : All plans include unlimited data and hotspot usage (hotspot will see usable but throttled speeds). Free smartwatch service for Plus Pro members : Add a compatible smartwatch to your account at no additional cost. : Add a compatible smartwatch to your account at no additional cost. Taxes and fees are included: What you see is what you pay — no hidden charges. What are the potential downsides? Deprioritization on the base plan : If you're on the base plan, you'll likely notice speed slowdowns in high-traffic areas. It's generally fine for light use or backup phones, but might frustrate heavier users. : If you're on the base plan, you'll likely notice speed slowdowns in high-traffic areas. It's generally fine for light use or backup phones, but might frustrate heavier users. Online-only support: Visible doesn't have physical stores or phone support. All customer service is handled through the app or website, which may be a barrier for some. How do its features stack up against the big three carriers? Value : You'll find better value with Visible. The big three can't really compare — Visible is one of the best value picks for unlimited data out of any carrier, including the prepaid competition. : You'll find better value with Visible. The big three can't really compare — Visible is one of the best value picks for unlimited data out of any carrier, including the prepaid competition. Phone selection and deals : The big three win here, but Visible still has solid offers from time to time and has recently offered deep discounts on Pixel phones. : The big three win here, but Visible still has solid offers from time to time and has recently offered deep discounts on Pixel phones. Payment and protection plans : Similar to the big three. While the big three hold a slight edge, financing is available through Affirm, and Visible Protect offers device insurance. : Similar to the big three. While the big three hold a slight edge, financing is available through Affirm, and Visible Protect offers device insurance. Perks and extras : The big three lead by a lot. Visible is all about the basics, so you won't find many extras. The base plan includes a $5 monthly discount for Verizon 5G Home Internet and unlimited calls/texts to Canada and Mexico. Plus adds international calling features and a $10 discount on 5G Home Internet. Plus Pro also improves its international roaming features and adds unlimited talk, text, and data in Mexico and Canada. : The big three lead by a lot. Visible is all about the basics, so you won't find many extras. The base plan includes a $5 monthly discount for Verizon 5G Home Internet and unlimited calls/texts to Canada and Mexico. Plus adds international calling features and a $10 discount on 5G Home Internet. Plus Pro also improves its international roaming features and adds unlimited talk, text, and data in Mexico and Canada. Data allotments and priority : Actually better with Visible for the price. All plans offer truly unlimited data. Plus and Plus Pro even give you unlimited high-priority data each month, which is more or less on par with Verizon postpaid plans, and yet you'll still pay much less! : Actually better with Visible for the price. All plans offer truly unlimited data. Plus and Plus Pro even give you unlimited high-priority data each month, which is more or less on par with Verizon postpaid plans, and yet you'll still pay much less! Customer service: The big three are better here. Agents are generally helpful, but the lack of phone or in-person support can be a drawback for some users. Visible - Plans starting at $25 a month for a limited time! Visible - Plans starting at $25 a month for a limited time! Aiming to simplify and reduce the costs of mobile connectivity, Visible by Verizon is a simplified carrier that offers limited plans, no hidden fees, and connectivity to the Verizon network. See price at Visible Save $5.00 Best T-Mobile alternative: Google Fi Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority Partner network : T-Mobile : T-Mobile Price range: $20–$65 per month, or $17–$40 for 4 or more lines Google Fi Wireless is one of my personal favorites, especially now that its newest plans make it much more competitive. If you're looking for an alternative to T-Mobile's network that still gets the same priority level, you won't find any real options outside of Google Fi. Even T-Mobile's in-house brands like Metro and Mint use lower-priority data than its postpaid plans. Google Fi also excels with international features, offering better roaming perks than even the most expensive big three postpaid plans. Big families will appreciate that Google offers exceptional family discounts too, with rates dropping as low as $23 per month for the base unlimited package if you have five or more lines. What you'll love about Google Fi Best-in-class international benefits : Unlimited Premium includes free international data in over 200 countries. Even the Flexible plan, which charges $10/GB abroad, is cheaper than most postpaid travel options. (Note: Not all plans are designed with international travel in mind; for example, the Unlimited Essentials plan only offers data in the US.) : Unlimited Premium includes free international data in over 200 countries. Even the Flexible plan, which charges $10/GB abroad, is cheaper than most postpaid travel options. (Note: Not all plans are designed with international travel in mind; for example, the Unlimited Essentials plan only offers data in the US.) Cheaper than postpaid : Unlimited data starts at $35/month—still less than postpaid and comparable to other premium-tier prepaid services. It's arguably a better experience than both for some users. : Unlimited data starts at $35/month—still less than postpaid and comparable to other premium-tier prepaid services. It's arguably a better experience than both for some users. Excellent phone deals: Most prepaid carriers don't offer great device deals, but Google Fi often has generous promotions, sometimes including free phones. The best deals tend to be for Google Pixel fans. What are the potential downsides? Limited data : Google Fi has the best possible T-Mobile-based prioritization. In my experience, speeds are very comparable to postpaid T-Mobile service, but you're limited to about 30–100GB of data depending on the plan. Go over, and the plan effectively shuts off your data—256Kbps is barely enough to check emails. : Google Fi has the best possible T-Mobile-based prioritization. In my experience, speeds are very comparable to postpaid T-Mobile service, but you're limited to about 30–100GB of data depending on the plan. Go over, and the plan effectively shuts off your data—256Kbps is barely enough to check emails. No Apple phones sold directly: iPhones work great on Google Fi, but you'll need to bring your own, as Google doesn't sell them directly. How do its features stack up against the big three carriers? Value : Google Fi is a better value. It can save you serious money over the big three while also offering some great perks like superior international roaming, but it's pricier than some prepaid services. : Google Fi is a better value. It can save you serious money over the big three while also offering some great perks like superior international roaming, but it's pricier than some prepaid services. Phone selection and deals : Fairly close. Google Fi is very competitive here, even if it doesn't offer Apple products. You'll find a selection of Samsung and Google phones, including occasional free phone promotions. : Fairly close. Google Fi is very competitive here, even if it doesn't offer Apple products. You'll find a selection of Samsung and Google phones, including occasional free phone promotions. Payment plans : Similar, but carriers offer better insurance options. Google Fi offers zero-percent financing and free phone deals via bill credits, which is fairly close to the big three, even if the selection is a bit more limited. You'll need third-party insurance, as Google Fi no longer offers its own device protection plan. : Similar, but carriers offer better insurance options. Google Fi offers zero-percent financing and free phone deals via bill credits, which is fairly close to the big three, even if the selection is a bit more limited. You'll need third-party insurance, as Google Fi no longer offers its own device protection plan. Perks and extras : Fewer than the big three, but what's there is solid. You'll get impressive travel features, six months of YouTube Premium, and permanent extra Google One storage. : Fewer than the big three, but what's there is solid. You'll get impressive travel features, six months of YouTube Premium, and permanent extra Google One storage. Data and priority : Very similar. You'll get high-priority unlimited data that's essentially the same as postpaid T-Mobile service—yet you'll pay less for it. : Very similar. You'll get high-priority unlimited data that's essentially the same as postpaid T-Mobile service—yet you'll pay less for it. Customer service: Not as good as the big three. While Google Fi offers decent customer service, the lack of in-store support and a recent decline in overall quality mean the big carriers still have a slight advantage. Google Fi - Unlimited plans starting at $50 a month Google Fi - Unlimited plans starting at $50 a month Google Fi Wireless offers flexible plans, superior coverage, and seamless device integration for a unique mobile experience. See price at Google Fi The best AT&T alternative: Cricket Wireless Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority If you want AT&T's network with the highest priority possible, Cricket is a safe choice. You'll get the same service prioritization as AT&T's base postpaid plans, and the carrier is actually owned by AT&T. Like Google Fi, Cricket feels a lot like a traditional carrier: you'll find free phone offers, multi-line discounts, streaming perks, and many other extras you'd expect from a postpaid plan. While I personally haven't used Cricket as my daily driver in four or five years, several family members (including my own mother) are quite happy with it. What you'll love about Cricket Feels like a traditional carrier : Cricket offers extras like streaming perks and discounted (sometimes free) phones on select plans, plus multi-line discounts. : Cricket offers extras like streaming perks and discounted (sometimes free) phones on select plans, plus multi-line discounts. High priority on AT&T's network : On select plans, you get the same service priority as AT&T's mid-tier or higher postpaid plans. However, Cricket's cheapest unlimited plan has lower priority, just like AT&T's budget postpaid options. : On select plans, you get the same service priority as AT&T's mid-tier or higher postpaid plans. However, Cricket's cheapest unlimited plan has lower priority, just like AT&T's budget postpaid options. Brick-and-mortar locations: Especially important for those who are less tech-savvy and could use in-person help. What are the potential downsides? A bit pricey for solo users: A single unlimited line starts at $55/month — or $60 if you want higher-priority data and 15GB of hotspot access. Multi-line discounts bring the lower-priority unlimited plan down to $25/month, and even the most expensive plan drops to $32.50 per line for four users. Remember, Cricket includes taxes in its pricing, but T-Mobile does not. How do its features stack up against the big three carriers? Value : Cricket offers better value than postpaid — on some plans. You'll usually save a little over postpaid, but there are small trade-offs in the overall experience. : Cricket offers better value than postpaid — on some plans. You'll usually save a little over postpaid, but there are small trade-offs in the overall experience. Phone Selection and Deals : More mid-range than the big three. Cricket often has free or cheap phones, but the catch is you'll need to lock into the carrier for an extended period. There are also plenty of new customer deals and a wide phone selection, not that different from AT&T itself. : More mid-range than the big three. Cricket often has free or cheap phones, but the catch is you'll need to lock into the carrier for an extended period. There are also plenty of new customer deals and a wide phone selection, not that different from AT&T itself. Payment and Protection Plans : Similar to postpaid. Cricket Protect insurance starts at $8/month and offers free or low-cost fixes for your device, plus 16GB of free online photo/video storage. For payment plans, Cricket partners with Affirm. : Similar to postpaid. Cricket Protect insurance starts at $8/month and offers free or low-cost fixes for your device, plus 16GB of free online photo/video storage. For payment plans, Cricket partners with Affirm. Perks and Extras : Actually pretty solid. Only T-Mobile now offers free streaming services, though Verizon still has discounted streaming perks. Cricket stands out, as its highest-end plan gives you the Max streaming service for free. : Actually pretty solid. Only T-Mobile now offers free streaming services, though Verizon still has discounted streaming perks. Cricket stands out, as its highest-end plan gives you the Max streaming service for free. Data Allotments and Priority : Matches or beats postpaid for the price. You get higher-priority AT&T service than AT&T's cheapest prepaid and postpaid plans on select tiers. Many prepaid services cap their unlimited data and throttle you after, but Cricket offers truly unlimited data. : Matches or beats postpaid for the price. You get higher-priority AT&T service than AT&T's cheapest prepaid and postpaid plans on select tiers. Many prepaid services cap their unlimited data and throttle you after, but Cricket offers truly unlimited data. Customer Service: Very similar to postpaid. With both brick-and-mortar and online/phone support, Cricket's service is nearly equal to postpaid, at least based on my own and my family's experience. Cricket - plans starting at $30 a month Cricket - plans starting at $30 a month Looking for a postpaid alternative? Cricket Wireless feels a lot like one of the big carriers with free phone offers, multi-line discounts, and even streaming perks with select plans but with the potential to save big. See price at Cricket Wireless An alternative to the alternatives: US Mobile Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority While I tend to recommend the three carriers above the most, they aren't for everyone. In that case, US Mobile is often my next suggestion as a 'best of all worlds' option. US Mobile is currently the only prepaid carrier in the US that not only offers service across all three major networks, but also lets you switch between them. (Red Pocket technically supports all three too, but US Mobile's implementation is much more polished.) Let's break down what makes it stand out, where it falls short, and how it compares to postpaid options. What you'll love about US Mobile Some of the cheapest unlimited rates around : US Mobile's Flex unlimited plan starts at just $17.50/month, but you'll need to pay for a full year upfront. : US Mobile's Flex unlimited plan starts at just $17.50/month, but you'll need to pay for a full year upfront. Blazingly fast Verizon and AT&T speeds : US Mobile has a unique relationship with Verizon, offering prioritization nearly comparable to postpaid Verizon and AT&T accounts — something we've personally verified. : US Mobile has a unique relationship with Verizon, offering prioritization nearly comparable to postpaid Verizon and AT&T accounts — something we've personally verified. True network flexibility : Verizon typically provides the best experience for US Mobile customers, but it's nice to be able to switch between AT&T and T-Mobile as needed. There's even an optional add-on that lets you use two networks at once. : Verizon typically provides the best experience for US Mobile customers, but it's nice to be able to switch between AT&T and T-Mobile as needed. There's even an optional add-on that lets you use two networks at once. Taxes and fees included in plan price: No surprises — it's $17.50/month plan is similar to Mint's 5GB plan (which doesn't include taxes/fees). What are the potential downsides? Deprioritization at peak times : Like most prepaid options, speeds can slow during peak times, especially on T-Mobile. However, these issues are rare if you stick to AT&T or Verizon. : Like most prepaid options, speeds can slow during peak times, especially on T-Mobile. However, these issues are rare if you stick to AT&T or Verizon. Customer service is usually good, but not perfect: Most customers are happy, but online reviews and Reddit occasionally mention delays with referral payouts, slower-than-promised feature rollouts, or gaps between announcements and execution. Fortunately, these issues are rare and don't typically affect the majority of US Mobile users. How do its features stack up against the big three carriers? Value : US Mobile is a better value overall. You'll save a good amount over the big three. : US Mobile is a better value overall. You'll save a good amount over the big three. Phone Selection and Deals : Not as good — US Mobile mostly focuses on mid-range or budget devices, but you will find some flagships like the Google Pixel 9 series (sometimes with hefty discounts). : Not as good — US Mobile mostly focuses on mid-range or budget devices, but you will find some flagships like the Google Pixel 9 series (sometimes with hefty discounts). Payment Plans & Insurance : Offers zero-percent financing via Affirm, but you'll need third-party insurance—no in-house coverage. : Offers zero-percent financing via Affirm, but you'll need third-party insurance—no in-house coverage. Perks : Not many streaming perks, but there are some nice extras: multi-line network support, a free smartwatch plan, and decent international features. : Not many streaming perks, but there are some nice extras: multi-line network support, a free smartwatch plan, and decent international features. Data & Priority : Nearly matches the big three. You won't get high-priority data through T-Mobile, but select plans offer it through Verizon or AT&T. : Nearly matches the big three. You won't get high-priority data through T-Mobile, but select plans offer it through Verizon or AT&T. Customer Service: Not as robust — no brick-and-mortar stores, but responsive online and phone-based support. US Mobile - Unlimited plans starting at $17.50 a month US Mobile - Unlimited plans starting at $17.50 a month US Mobile is the only carrier that gives you the choice between all three major US networks, and the ability to switch between them for a small fee! See price at US Mobile Honorable mentions Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority There are many solid choices in the prepaid world, and while the three carriers above are the ones I recommend most, it really depends on what you're looking for. Here are a few other carriers I often suggest for specific types of users: Metro by T-Mobile : If you want a premium carrier that's owned by T-Mobile directly, Metro could be worth a look. Just be aware you'll get lower-priority data than you would with Google Fi or T-Mobile postpaid. : If you want a premium carrier that's owned by T-Mobile directly, Metro could be worth a look. Just be aware you'll get lower-priority data than you would with Google Fi or T-Mobile postpaid. Total Wireless : Total is owned by Verizon, just like Visible, but focuses more on family plans and premium features instead of low-cost single lines. There are also some physical stores, streaming perks with select plans, and more. : Total is owned by Verizon, just like Visible, but focuses more on family plans and premium features instead of low-cost single lines. There are also some physical stores, streaming perks with select plans, and more. Mint Mobile : Perfect if you're looking for affordable, no-frills service on T-Mobile's network and don't mind lower priority levels or paying annually for the best rates. : Perfect if you're looking for affordable, no-frills service on T-Mobile's network and don't mind lower priority levels or paying annually for the best rates. Tello: Great for those looking for a second line, like a senior who wants a backup for their landline, or for kids and teens who need basic service. What if you live in an area where all three networks work well? If network connectivity is solid across Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile, the game changes a bit. Here's what I'd recommend: For value, simplicity, and reliability : Visible remains my top pick if you don't care which network you're on. Just remember, you'll need to be a bit more hands-on with troubleshooting, or have someone to help you. : Visible remains my top pick if you don't care which network you're on. Just remember, you'll need to be a bit more hands-on with troubleshooting, or have someone to help you. If you want a traditional carrier feel: Consider Google Fi Wireless. You won't get truly unlimited data, but pricing can be just as aggressive (especially for families), and you'll find better customer service options plus slightly better perks.
Tom's Guide
27-06-2025
- Tom's Guide
Not a typo! iPhone 16e is just $99 right now with this amazing deal
I've always been a fan of the iPhone SE series, having made the original and iPhone SE 2 as my main drivers, but that all changed with the fourth generation model. Despite being the cheapest one in the current lineup, I'm still not convinced that the iPhone 16e offers good value at $599 — so much so that I tell friends and family to go with the iPhone 16 instead. Well, that all changes right now because Boost Mobile's offering the iPhone 16e for $99 and that's the kind of cost I would gladly pay for this phone. This comes out to be an 83% off instant discount and I think it's hard to pass up on. In order to get this generous offer from Boost Mobile, you'll need to activate it on its $60/month unlimited plan. Now this is what the iPhone 16e should cost. Boost Mobile's making the cheapest iPhone even cheaper ahead of Prime Day 2025 by bringing its price down to $99 when you start new service and commit to its $60/month unlimited plan. At $99, the iPhone 16e can't be beat and now widens its gap over the iPhone 16. Even though it has one of the simplest camera systems around, I said in my iPhone 16e review that the single 48MP camera on the back of the phone offers excellent performance for all sorts of conditions. I'm particularly surprised by its low light performance, which is a huge improvement over the previous iPhone SE (2022). Another thing you should know about the iPhone 16e is that it has the same Apple Intelligence features as the rest of the iPhone 16 models. In fact, I'm able to access Visual Intelligence via the Action Button to search stuff with the camera. Additionally, it's poised to get all the new iOS 26 features when the software update rolls out later this year — like the new Liquid Glass material design, Live Translation, new Camera app, and more. It's also powered by the same A18 chip found in the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus, so its just as responsive with most things. This also helps out in the battery life department, where the iPhone 16e achieves a time of 12 hours and 41 minutes on Tom's Guide's battery benchmark test — and that's a huge improvement over the 7 hours and 38 minutes achieved by the iPhone SE (2022). The only thing I think you'll need to think about is whether or not Boost Mobile's $60/month unlimited plan is within your budget. I know it's up there compared to rivals like Visible and Mint Mobile, but this plan gets you 50GB of premium data per month — so you're getting the fastest speeds and priority when there's a lot of network congestion. After 12 months, you'll be able to get the iPhone 16e unlocked, so that it can be used on any carrier. Now that's a deal you won't find on Prime Day.
