Fonus Mobile is a Virtual Mobile Network Operator (MVNO) that offers unlimited cellular data plans. Using the AT&T network, the California-based provider, founded in 2019, provides unlimited calls and texts to over 50 countries worldwide.
This prepaid operator’s website offers a single plan that gives subscribers unlimited data access for $30 USD, avoiding roaming charges in Canada, Mexico, and the United States. However, it is important to note that all calls and texts must be made directly through the Fonus platform.
Furthermore, Fonus provides 5G network access to its US customers. Despite the term “unlimited data,” users can use up to 20GB on the fastest regional network. After reaching this limit, Fonus mobile adjusts download speeds to 3G. Learn more about Fonus in our in-depth article.
What is a Virtual Mobile Network Operator (MVNO)?
MVNO stands for Mobile Virtual Network Operator. It is a wireless service provider that does not have its own network infrastructure. In other words, MVNOs must collaborate with mobile network providers to gain access to their infrastructure. Typically, these agreements allow companies like Fonus to gain access to the mobile network at relatively low cost. This practice explains how Fonus is able to offer unlimited data plans for only $30. To gain a better understanding of MVNOs, read our article “MVNO in Canada: The Guide.“
How to sign up for Fonus?
Fonus Mobile’s registration process is straightforward. The entire process can be completed directly through their website. Users must first purchase a Fonus SIM card, which costs $15 USD.
Users in the United States and Canada can get this SIM card for free. When you purchase the SIM card, you will be required to pay for the first month of service. The Fonus SIM card should arrive three to six days after the transaction is completed.
After receiving your Fonus Mobile SIM card, you must activate it on the Fonus platform. You must enter your SIM card number, email address, and postal code. After that, you must enter a credit card for automatic payment to complete your profile.
Once your account is fully set up, you can ask Fonus to transfer your current phone number. It is critical not to cancel your previous plans until the transfer is complete. This process usually takes 48 to 72 hours, but if any information is missing, it can take up to 5 days.
Fonus Mobile Review
Users appear to have vastly different feelings and experiences with Fonus Mobile. Many people distrust the company because it lacks transparency with its customers. Fonus Mobile advertises unlimited data, but users are switched to a 3G network after 20GB of usage.
Customer service
Many users experienced difficulties when attempting to cancel their services. Customers can terminate their subscription in two ways: directly through their customer portal, under the settings section, or by contacting Fonus customer service.
Unfortunately, when several customers attempted to cancel their subscriptions over the phone, they encountered problems. In conversations with agents, some customers who requested the termination of their line were told to call back two days before the end of their plan. This instruction exposed them to ongoing charges for several months because they failed to make the follow-up call.
Finally, canceling a phone plan should be a simple process.
If you intend to use the Fonus service, we strongly advise you to remain vigilant and check for any charges after canceling your plan on a regular basis. This situation also casts doubt on Fonus’s status as a prepaid service. A prepaid plan typically requires an upfront payment, with automatic disconnection at the plan’s expiration, necessitating the purchase of a new plan to regain access.
If Fonus automatically charges credit cards on a monthly basis, it suggests a conventional contract without the anticipated prepaid features, enabling cancellation at any time without penalties.
Data Network
Many users experienced unexpected service interruptions as a result of Fonus’ inability to deploy its own network. In one instance, a customer used 50GB of AT&T data, resulting in the permanent disconnection of their SIM card by the provider. To justify the termination, the provider cited a violation of the service conditions. Such situations should never occur because Fonus provides unlimited data usage to its customers.
The network used by Canadian users is also unclear. On its website, Fonus claims to use Telus, Bell, and Rogers networks for its Canadian customers. However, Telus has stated that it has no agreement with Fonus and has never communicated with the California-based company.
Fonus App
According to numerous online reviews, the Android app appears to have a lot of bugs. The Fonus app frequently terminates calls, and the only way to resume receiving calls is to close and reopen the app. This also applies to SMS received through the app. Furthermore, the call history appears to be extremely inconsistent, with the caller’s number not appearing unless they left a message for the Fonus client.
Fonus’ legitimacy
Before choosing Fonus Mobile as your data provider, it’s crucial to remember that Simon Tian, the company’s founder, has raised doubts. Before establishing Fonus, this Canadian entrepreneur was involved with the Neptune Suite project. To support its project, the company used crowdfunding but never delivered the final product. While various factors can contribute to a business’s failure, the lack of information and transparency from Neptune Suite was deemed unacceptable. Despite many customers having positive experiences with Fonus, others have expressed concerns and found the company highly suspicious.
Fonus FAQs
We’re here to answer your questions about Fonus Mobile. Please see our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) section below for answers to common questions about Fonus Mobile.
What Network does Fonus use in Canada?
Fonus Mobile claims that its Canadian customers will be connected to the Bell, Rogers, and Telus networks. While network selection is usually automatic, some devices allow users to manually select the network they want to use.
Will I have access to 5G everywhere?
No, the 5G network is only available to users in the United States via Fonus. If you are in Canada or Mexico, your first 20GB of usage will most likely be on a 4G network.
Can I cancel my Fonus at any time?
Yes, Fonus is a prepaid service, which means there is no contract. You can contact the customer service or cancel directly from your user account.
Can I hotspot with Fonus mobile data?
At the moment, hot-spotting is not allowed with their data plan. Fonus data can only be accessed by the phone containing the Fonus SIM card.
How do I contact Fonus?
Clients who require assistance with their account or want more information on how to use the service can contact Fonus via a variety of channels. They offer chat boxes on their website, as well as Telegram chats for customer service representatives!
Is Fonus Mobile a Good Alternative?
If you are planning a trip to the United States or Mexico, Fonus Mobile is an excellent choice. It simplifies communication with your contacts no matter where you are, eliminating the stress of searching for information while traveling between Canada, Mexico, and the United States. It is also a good option for Canadians looking to reduce their telecommunications costs. Choosing a data-only plan allows you to avoid paying for extra services included in more traditional plans.
It is important to note that this company has not been registered with the CRTC. In other words, Fonus Mobile is subject to different regulations than other Canadian telecommunications service providers.
Alternatives to Fonus?
You may find alternatives to Fonus by using PlanHub to compare more than a hundred cell phone plans. Similar choices are provided by other companies, who offer a range of programs to accommodate various needs and price ranges. PlanHub allows you to compare options and choose the plan that best meets your needs in terms of cost, features, and coverage.
When determining the optimal alternative, a number of criteria should be examined. First, validate that the network covers your location. Next, consider plan details such as the number of phone minutes, mobile data allowance, and included services. Finally, compare prices to determine the best value.