Apple introduced the seamless transfer of calls between Wi-Fi and cell towers to much applause, and now T-Mobile, in its self-described "un-carrier" fashion, is embracing the calling feature that will likely draw some of its customers voice calls away from its network.
John Legere, president and CEO of T-Mobile, said smartphone makers have already invested in Wi-Fi calling, so his company is swinging its machete into territory other cell service providers have yet to trek. T-Mobile is calling its support for Wi-Fi calling "Wi-Fi Unleashed" and Legere says it's a game changer.
"This is like adding millions of towers to our network in a single day," says Legere (PDF). "The difference between us and the traditional carriers is that they'll do everything they can to make more money off you. We'll do everything we can to solve your problems, and today, that's about uniting Wi-Fi with our data-strong network for unprecedented coverage."
All new T-Mobile smartphones will be equipped to deliver Wi-Fi calling, according to Legere. The T-Mobile CEO says his company's new "Jump" program will enable owners of existing T-Mobile smartphones to upgrade to Wi-Fi calling immediately.
T-Mobile's brand of Wi-Fi calling will be truly seamless, with no apps or credentials to enter in order to move between cellular towers and Wi-Fi network, according to a press release from the wireless carrier. "Just use your phone," states T-Mobile.
"For years, the big phone company utilities have told you where you can and can't have coverage -- and wherever their networks can't reach, you're SOL," says Legere (PDF). "With T-Mobile Personal CellSpot, we're putting an end to that old way of thinking. Now, you can decide wherever you want your own T-Mobile tower, giving you amazing full-bars experience where no carrier network has reached before."
Further affirming T-Mobile's faith in Apple and the technologies the iPhone maker presented before its congregation, T-Mobile says it plans to offer versions of the iPhone 6 for zero money down. With a two-year contract and for around $30 a month, customers won't have to front any money to get their hands on the 16-GB version of the iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus.
"Apple has done it again, and this fall is going to be one of the biggest upgrade cycles this industry has seen ... ever," says Legere. "At T-Mobile, we're all about helping you get your hands on the latest devices, and with our Data Strong network with unlimited data and music streaming, the iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus on T-Mobile will totally rock."
