Xfinity Now Mobile Phone Plan Review

What is NOW Mobile?

NOW Mobile is a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) service provided by Comcast, which uses the network backbone of Verizon, one of the most extensive networks in the U.S. This service is exclusive to subscribers of Xfinity Internet and NOW Internet. NOW Internet is a prepaid budget internet option from Xfinity

Pros:

• Cost-Effectiveness: NOW Mobile plans are typically more affordable than those offered by traditional mobile operators.
• Extensive Hotspot Network: Subscribers have free access to Xfinity’s millions of WiFi hotspots nationwide, which helps save on data usage and ensures connectivity in many areas.
• One Simple Plan: NOW has simplified choosing a plan by offering one low, flat cost for the service.

• No Contracts: Plans can be paused or canceled at any time without penalty.
• Taxes & Fees Included: Plan prices reflect all associated costs up front so there aren’t ever surprises on your bill.

Cons:

• Exclusivity to Xfinity Internet Users: The biggest limitation is that the service is only available to Xfinity Internet or NOW Internet customers.
• Data Speed Throttling: After 20 GB of data use, NOW will throttle mobile data speeds.

Features of NOW Mobile

NOW Mobile comes with several key features that make it an appealing option:

• No Long-Term Contracts: Users enjoy the freedom to change or cancel their plans without facing hefty penalties, a stark contrast to the rigid contracts of traditional mobile providers.
• Data Rollover: A rare feature among MVNOs, NOW Mobile allows customers to roll over unused data to the next month, maximizing their data plans.
• Automatic Network Switching: Smart technology enables devices to switch between cellular and WiFi networks seamlessly, optimizing for the strongest signal and best possible connection.

• Global Hotspots: Xfinity Internet services give users access to over 20 million hotspots nationwide, which can allow switching away from mobile data to save on usage.

• Mexico and Canada Unlimited Pass: For new NOW Mobile customers, plans can add unlimited roaming as well as calls to and from those countries for $5 per month per line.

Plans and Pricing: A Closer Look

NOW Mobile simplifies the mobile service offering down to one easy-to-understand plan for all users. The service costs $25 per month per line and is only available to Xfinity Internet or NOW Mobile customers. The monthly price includes all taxes and fees, but there is a $25 setup fee for each phone or tablet.

Network and Performance: Powered by Verizon

Leveraging Verizon’s network means NOW Mobile users enjoy extensive coverage across both urban and rural America, including 5G where available. Detailed coverage maps on Xfinity’s website allow users to check service availability and expected signal strength in their area.

One potential downside for heavy data users is that while the plan includes unlimited data, NOW customers will experience slower speeds after using 20 GB. From NOW: “After a line exceeds 20GB of data usage, speeds for such line are reduced to a maximum of 1.5 Mbps download/750 Kbps upload, determined and applied on a per line basis.” This throttling won’t effect users that stay under the cap, but could cause frustration for those that don’t. NOW also notes that during times of network congestion, NOW Mobile customers may get slower speeds than other users with higher priority such as Verizon’s own customers.

About Xfinity

Founded in 1981 and headquartered in Philadelphia, Pa., Xfinity is the trade name of Comcast Cable Communications, LLC, a subsidiary of the Comcast Corporation. Originally a cable television provider, the company has expanded over the decades to include high-speed internet, telephone services, and a new brand in NOW which provides lower-cost internet, mobile and TV services. Xfinity has built a reputation for technological innovation and for frequently expanding its service offerings to meet the evolving needs of its customers.

NOW Mobile vs. the Competitors

NOW Mobile vs. Visible Wireless

When comparing NOW Mobile with Visible Wireless, it’s important to note that both operate on Verizon’s robust network infrastructure, ensuring wide coverage and reliable service. However, NOW Mobile primarily targets existing Xfinity Internet customers and new NOW Internet customers, offering them benefits such as access to numerous Xfinity WiFi hotspots, making it particularly attractive to those already within the Comcast ecosystem. 

On the other hand, Visible Wireless appeals to a broader audience with its plan that includes unlimited data, calls and texts at a flat rate, and which does not require customers to have other services with a parent company. Both companies use the Verizon network and at times, users of either could get slower data speeds than Verizon customers using the same network.

NOW Mobile vs. Mint Mobile

NOW Mobile and Mint Mobile cater to somewhat different segments of the mobile market, each with its unique selling points. NOW Mobile, which is available exclusively to Xfinity Internet customers, offers a single unlimited plan. Mint Mobile has several plan options which can provide savings for mobile users who don’t need unlimited data as they offer plans as cheap as $15 per month for lower data caps.

Mint Mobile uses the T-Mobile network while Xfinity Now uses the Verizon network. Depending on your location, one service may provide faster speeds and more reliable connections, and customers should consult coverage maps to determine which service may be more desirable in their home area.

NOW Mobile vs. T-Mobile

NOW Mobile and T-Mobile serve their respective niches in the mobile market with distinct approaches to customer service and plan flexibility. NOW Mobile, backed by Xfinity, provides a more integrated service experience for consumers who are already using other Xfinity or NOW services. In contrast, T-Mobile, as a standalone major network provider, offers a wide variety of plans including prepaid, postpaid and unlimited options that cater to a broader audience. 

T-Mobile is known for its robust network infrastructure and innovative perks like international roaming and in-flight texting, which enhance its appeal to frequent travelers and tech-savvy users. The fact that Xfinity Now customers may experience slower speeds than Verizon customers during high-traffic times may make T-Mobile more appealing to customers who don’t mind paying for more reliably fast data speeds.

Bottom Line: Why We Love It

NOW Mobile is an excellent option for current Xfinity Internet or NOW Internet customers looking to streamline their services and save on mobile data plans over major carriers. With features like extensive hotspot access and no contract obligations, it offers a valuable package for a variety of users.