Google today announced that they will be providing Project Fi (perhaps it's time to change the name of this service to something better Google?) with support for data-only devices. With the update, Project Fi users will be able to obtain a cellular connection with their tablet and other connected devices while on the go with a data only SIM.
The cost of this data only service will be identical to data costs for mobile phone users on Fi, $10/GB. Just like with Fi mobile phone users, any unused data will be refunded at the end of your billing period which equates to $1 refunded per 100MB.
Current Project Fi customers can order their data-only SIM from their "Account" page on the Project Fi website. The SIMs will become available to current subscribers on a rolling basis, so if you don't see this as an option in your account today, keep checking for it over the next several days. Those who aren't yet a Project Fi customer can visit https://fi.google.com/about/ to request an invite for the service.
Now there will be some limitations with the data only SIMs. Accounts will be limited to a maximum of 9 data only SIMs, and tethering is prohibited. On the plus side, the SIMs will provide coverage in 120+ countries.
Google says that in order to get service, you will need to have an unlocked device that is compatible with T-Mobile's network. Users are welcome to order a SIM to test out the service with their device, but thus far service has only been verified to work with the following devices:
- Nexus 7 - K009 (US LTE)
- Nexus 9 - 0P82300 (US LTE)
- iPad Air 2 - Model A1567
- iPad mini 4 - Model A1550
- Galaxy Tab S - Model SM-T807V