'Messaging does run through the app but delivers over real SMS and MMS channels with all the major operators in the US and Canada,' the rep told me. TextNow does use 'real' SMS and MMS, which is important for things like shortcode messaging (five-digit numbers used primarily for business-to-consumer messaging and advertising) and two-factor authentication. However, data roaming is not included, so your only option for service outside the network would be on Wi-Fi. This free plan is available anywhere on the T-Mobile network.

If you're missing the latter, you can buy an activation kit for $5 (a price drop it was previously $10). You need an unlocked, GSM-compatible phone ( check compatibility here) and SIM card. There are TextNow apps for Android and iOS the free plan is available on both platforms. As with most smaller carriers, TextNow requires no contract. Maybe you just want data for a month or two at a time? No problem: Pay for the months you want, then revert back to the free plan. That's a reasonably competitive rate, though if you're looking for low-cost phone service that includes data, make sure to check out carriers like Hello Mobile, Mint Mobile and Visible. That also scores you voicemail transcription and unlimited photo and video history.Īs for data, TextNow gives you the option of 2GB per month for $19.99. If you want an ad-free experience, you can pay $9.99 a month. You'll also see full-page pop-up ads, though only once a day at most, according to a TextNow spokesperson. Those ads take the form of banners within the TextNow app and occasional videos (some with sound) that appear after a call. devices are compatible, according to the company.) (That greatly expands TextNow's reach roughly 75% of U.S. Who's paying for this free lunch?Īs noted above, this is an ad-supported service, one that originally operated on Sprint's network but just made the move to T-Mobile's. But, again, this requires Wi-Fi or a data plan TextNow's free plan doesn't include data. You just text them an invite they'll receive a link that allows for a browser-based session. Speaking of that, the service now offers an interesting video-calling feature as well: You can set up a video call with anyone, even if they don't have the TextNow app or service. Just to be clear, any phone running TextNow's free plan can still do app and internet things it'll just need Wi-Fi to do them. Read more: The best budget phones for 2021 Similarly, you could give a phone to a kid or other family member who just needs a way to keep in touch, without the added expense of a monthly bill.

So, for example, if you've got an old phone lying around and want to keep it active as a backup, here's a totally free way to do that.

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