MVNO: What are MVNOs and the Best Options for You?

Your smartphone is your lifeline, yet services may be expensive despite its functionality. If you are overpaying for your cellular service, try using a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) rather than the more costly big mobile suppliers. MVNO providers deliver the same level of coverage as big carriers but at a reduced cost. This is because they employ the same networks as the Big Three—AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile—while offering a vastly different product portfolio. These pay-as-you-go programs enable you to avoid a massive cost while still getting the most out of your mobile device.

What Exactly is an MVNO?

A Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) is a provider that offers mobile services by leasing wireless capacity from larger carriers (MNOs). Unlike traditional Mobile Network Operators (MNOs), MVNOs do not own the physical network infrastructure. Instead, they have strategic alliances with MNOs, Fiber Network Operators, and Internet Service Providers worldwide. This vendor-agnostic strategy enables them to find the optimum solution for each customer while maintaining flexible terms and reasonable prices. MVNOs are fantastic partners for enterprises that rely significantly on international IoT and strategically rely on unique connections.

MVNO API

The MVNO API allows you to manage all operations, build multiple business models, and design your tariffs and services. This includes creating applets for both SIM cards and MVNO subscribers. The API offers several key features:

• Act as an HNO despite the absence of a radio network: MVNOs can function with full operational capabilities without owning the physical network.
• Complete control over services and offers: The API provides tools for managing services, offers, and customer interactions.
• SIM management tools and DID allocation: Enables seamless management of SIM cards and direct inward dialing (DID) numbers, ensuring efficient resource allocation.
• Utilizing one’s traffic: MVNOs can manage and utilize their traffic, optimizing network usage and cost efficiency.

Types of MVNOs

Different types of MVNOs include:

1. Independent MVNOs: These MVNOs operate independently of any MNO and lease network access from one or multiple MNOs to provide their own services and plans. They have complete control over their offerings, allowing them to tailor services to specific market segments.
2. Operator-owned MVNOs: These MVNOs are subsidiaries or brands of larger MNOs. They operate under their parent company’s umbrella, often offering specialized plans or targeting specific market segments. This allows them to leverage the resources and network infrastructure of the parent MNO while maintaining a distinct brand identity.
3. Cable company MVNOs: Cable companies that enter the MVNO space leverage their existing customer base and bundle mobile services with their cable and internet offerings. This strategy allows them to offer competitive pricing and integrated service packages, appealing to customers seeking comprehensive connectivity solutions.

Best MVNO Carriers

1. Google Fi: Utilizes the best connection from Sprint, T-Mobile, or US Cellular. Offers simple pricing structures and extensive international coverage.
2. Cricket Wireless: Offers reasonably priced plans with no speed limitations, making it a competitive option for cost-conscious consumers .
3. US Mobile: Provides a range of customizable plans, including affordable options for backup or emergency phones. Their flexible plans cater to varying needs and usage patterns .
4. Consumer Cellular: Targets older adults with straightforward, no-contract plans. They are known for exceptional customer service and have consistently ranked high in customer satisfaction surveys .
5. Ting Mobile: Offers flexible plans with affordable rates starting at $10 per month. Ting’s pay-as-you-go model is ideal for users with varying usage patterns .
6. Xfinity Mobile: Uses Verizon’s network and offers low-cost unlimited plans, available exclusively to Comcast internet customers. This bundling strategy provides significant savings for existing Comcast customers .
7. Visible: Provides unlimited plans with straightforward pricing. Visible’s service is based on Verizon’s network, ensuring reliable coverage and performance .
8. Mint Mobile: Offers prepaid plans with excellent overall pricing. Their competitive pricing structure makes them an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers .
9. Tello: Allows customization of plans based on minutes and data requirements. Tello’s flexibility makes it easy for customers to find a plan that fits their specific needs .

Which MVNOs are the Best?

The best MVNO depends on your needs and preferences. Ensure the MVNO has service in your location and works with your current smartphone or the phone you plan to acquire. Choose an MVNO with a plan that matches your requirements. MVNOs are a great way to receive the same outstanding service on major networks while dramatically lowering your cell phone bill, potentially saving you hundreds of dollars annually.

Talk to Us

Spenza helps companies become an MVNO within hours and enables them to offer connectivity services to their customers, creating an additional revenue stream for the company. It is an embeddable, API-first operator that lets you sell phone & data plans to your customers without the hassle of setting up your MVNO in every market. Spenza is an authorized reseller of ATT, Verizon, T-Mobile, and dozens of IoT and MVNO operators across the globe, serving dozens of companies. Schedule a time with our connectivity experts.