WASHINGTON, Jan. 22 (UPI) -- Google plans to become a wireless carrier in the U.S. after negotiating deals with T-Mobile and Sprint to use their data and voice networks.
Codenamed "Nova," Google could begin the wireless service as early as this year in the U.S., perhaps with limited service to certain cities or Google Fiber Internet service users.
The project is led by Google executive Nick Fox and would make Google a mobile virtual network operator, joining companies such as TracFone and Ting. Mobile virtual network operators can offer flexible plans with no contracts and lower rates.
Google would benefit from the deal by being allowed to use Sprint and T-Mobile networks without having to build and maintain its own data and voice networks -- a method known as "piggybacking."
Sprint and T-Mobile could benefit by selling excess capacity on their networks and getting customers connected to existing networks without having to advertise to them or register them.
Google's entry into the wireless service industry could potentially make the company rivals with Sprint and T-Mobile, instead of partners. Google's strong reputation and brand could be a disruptive force if it enters the wireless carrier industry.
