These days I look at smart phones as modern day Swiss army knives, and they are equally valuable in either setting, urban or rural. However, they are only as good as the service behind them. As a minimalist, I rarely get excited over material "things", products, etc. Communication from an edc and survival aspect causes me to look differently at cell phones....enter Google Project Fi Why does a guy who spends half his life at sea care about his cell service? Because when I need it...I NEED it, especially overseas and in foreign countries. So, the phones run stock android and are World phones. GSM and the other, doesn't matter. The calls for through wifi first if available, then push to nearest tower (almost any provider). Problems are solved with an actual human being returned call within minutes. And the price for service is unmatched, as they refund what is not used! Can't emphasize efficient comms enough, especially during Emergency. This product has made a huge impact on my travels and family emergency comm plan. Wanted to pass on the info in hopes it may benefit someone else.
We moved to Fi mainly for the price $30 a month and credit for unused data. My monthly bill is around $25 plus .gov taxes and fees for each line. FI uses T-Mobile (GSM) along with Sprint & US Cellular (CDMA) networks for unlimited talk and text. I have my Wi-Fi for home use and scores of local Wi-Fi networks stored. I liked my iPhone but I love paying less than half of what I was paying per month. Project Fi
Useless in Alaska, as only AT&T and GCI are out in. The bush of Alaska.... AND I wouldn't trust Google with my Comms, for a NEW YORK Second...
We rotate through three different encryption schemes with our cell communications. Verizon, Sprint, T-mobile, US Cell, AT&T or Jim Bob's cell company are all at risk unless you encrypt. It is common fallacy that if you avoid Google products you are safe from Googles prying eyes. The billions spent on fifteen Google data centers around the world at some point touch most everything... And if Google is not looking at your communication good ole ma bell is doing it in rooms like 641A in SF. Room 641A is a telecommunication interception facility operated by AT&T for the U.S. National Security Agency that commenced operations in 2003 and was exposed in 2006 Room 641A - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Data center locations – Data Centers – Google Data Centers – Google
Good info; thanks! My priority is the best coverage and uninterrupted calls. For that purpose Google suits my needs best.If and when I ever have a need to protect my comms from the gov or Corp America, I have secondary means. Good points though!
STG- Would love to know what only 1 of those encryption schemes is. Are you speaking of voice comms or text messages? I am aware of some apps that let you encrypt text messages. Thanks! EDIT: Answered my own question. Cellcrypt Cellcrypt - Secure, encrypted phone calls and conference calls is at least 1 company that encrypts voice comms (for a fee).
fi is claiming 2G voice coverage in parts of Alaska. Old Ma Bell has their fingers in your privacy as much as Google, Verizon, Comcast, HughesNet or any other ISP or cell provider..... Encryption is the only defense. AT&T Is Spying on Americans for Profit, New Documents Reveal Project Fi
