WATERLOO and SAN FRANCISCO — Waterloo’s TextNow announced last week it is launching its new Free Nationwide Talk & Text cellular service in the U.S., through its MVNO arrangement with Sprint.
Customers in the U.S. will now have unlimited, ad-supported calling and texting with compatible iOS and Android devices, with TextNow’s wireless network services provided on the nationwide Sprint Network. Free Nationwide Talk & Text is an extension of TextNow’s app-based messaging and calling service, which previously supported only Wi-Fi-enabled phone users.
“When we talk to our customers, the number one thing they ask for is free cellular service. We’re excited to make unlimited nationwide talk and text a reality for everyone and every budget, even zero dollars,” said Derek Ting, CEO of TextNow, in the company’s news release. “We provide our users with a real phone number to call or text at no cost, unlike other calling and messaging apps that only let you connect with people who have the same app.”
Similar to traditional carriers, users can purchase Android and iOS devices as well as SIM cards directly from TextNow, including low-cost refurbished options, the news release says. In addition to offering its free, ad-supported phone service, TextNow also provides low-cost options for ad-free and premium features, including data, the company says.
Consumers in Canada can use Textnow’s services in Wi-Fi zones, but it does not have any relationships with Canadian wireless companies.
The core features and benefits of TextNow’s mobile app include:
- Easy activation: With an eligible device and TextNow-enabled SIM card, consumers can activate right away. If a SIM card or phone is needed, a TextNow SIM Activation Kit can be purchased for a one-time fee of US$9.99 along with a range of affordable phones on TextNow’s website that come with Free Nationwide Talk & Text service. This is not available in Canada.
- Free features: In addition to a free phone number and unlimited calling and texting to numbers across the U.S. and Canada, TextNow offers conference calling, voicemail and group texting.
- Data: Data add-ons are available starting in increments of 2 gigabytes for US$19.99 a month and unlimited LTE for US$39.99 a month.
- No contract or hidden fees: TextNow is a free mobile app. There is no contract required.
Founded in 2009, TextNow’s headquarters is in Waterloo, with offices in San Francisco and Portland. The company says its TextNow app has been downloaded more than 200 million times globally.
