TextNow 101: Data

DISCLAIMER: The prices you see on this or any other TextNow blog article are subject to change. Please check the TextNow app for the most recent pricing.

You may have found TextNow through a need for a free phone number, whether for a small business or side gig, free or affordable international calling, or just a backup for when your own line is down — but did you know that TextNow's service offers a lot more than just free texting and calling? It also offers traditional data service – some of it even free.

TextNow's data service

1. TextNow Free Plan

TextNow's nationwide data service starts with the Free Plan — a wireless plan that provides you with unlimited calling & texting nationwide, plus data for select apps like iHeartRadio, email, maps, rideshare, and finance for $0/month.

2. TextNow Data Passes

Then, if you'd like to access other apps and services on data (without Wi-Fi), you can upgrade to the following options at any point in time:

How do TextNow's Data Passes work?

Similar to any other phone service provider, TextNow's data plans are first activated with a SIM. This allows your phone to connect to the 5G network, so you can have access to data outside of Wi-Fi. You can get a free eSIM for iOS or Android, or a physical SIM card (free with a Data Pass or $3.99 on the Free plan).

Once you're activated, you get to enjoy our Free plan by default, giving you access to your TextNow number outside of Wi-Fi, plus select essential apps. If you want to access other apps (or stream), you can upgrade to any of the unlimited data options, by the day, week, or month.

All of our data plans are prepaid, so you only get the service once your payment is processed. There are no credit checks, no overage charges or late fees, just affordable phone service that never cuts you off (even if you're unable to pay, you always default back to the Free plan, keeping your phone number and essentials on).

How do I upgrade to an unlimited data plan?

1. Open up the TextNow app and tap on Menu.
2. Tap on My Account.
3. Select Get Unlimited Data

How is TextNow free?

Our nationwide Free plan is free the same way our unlimited talk & text service has been free for years – ads. We figured that if streaming services could offer entertainment for free with ads, why couldn't your phone service?

The ads remain in-app only (in the TextNow app), so they won't interfere with your phone activities, and can even be used to provide you with exclusive perks and discounts.

What is TextNow's coverage like?

We partner with one of the leading nationwide networks in the U.S. to provide you with broad coverage that will keep you going no matter where you are.

Check out our full coverage map for more details.