While TextNow Wireless is one of the quieter Sprint MVNOs, the wireless service companion to its messaging app has quietly made a few changes for current and new prospective customers looking to cut their wireless bills down to more manageable monthly payments. To begin, the virtual operator has added the Nexus 5 for $249.99 and the 16GB Moto X for $149.99 or $174.99 for the 32GB version to its customized device lineup.
TextNow Wireless has also added new features to its service plans, which start at $18.99 per month and go up to $59.99 monthly with all taxes and fees included, such as unlimited voice, messaging and 2G data using a new hybrid calling protocol that automatically routes calls over either Wi-Fi or Sprint’s network and is limited to phones sold by the virtual operator. Previously, all calls and messaging were limited to VoIP through its messaging app and did not use the cellular network at all.
Currently, the company offers the Motorola G, Motorola X, LG Optimus F3, Samsung Galaxy S III, S4 and Nexus 5 with the hybrid calling technology built-in. The virtual operator does offer BYOSD support, but those that bring devices to TextNow will not be able to take advantage of hybrid calling and will instead be limited to VoIP only.
