TruConnect Mobile

TruConnect Mobile is a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) that sells 3G mobile data service for laptops and tablets such as the Apple iPad and the Kindle Fire via the Sprint wireless network.^[1] The company was the first prepaid broadband provider in the U.S. to offer a pay-as-you-go mobile broadband service plan.^[2] Headquartered in Los Angeles, CA, the company is partially owned by Telscape Communications, Inc., a 12-year-old Los Angeles competitive local exchange carrier (CLEC).

The TruConnect Mobile service is aimed at casual data users that occasionally fall outside Wi-Fi hotspot areas ^[3][4] and is built on a pay-per-megabyte model, in which customers pay for only the data they use, plus a monthly access fee.^[5] Users prepay the account and can monitor their usage on the TruConnect Mobile website.^[6] The company uses the “top up” payment model and users will receive an email when the account reaches its minimum balance and an additional charge is about to be incurred.^[7]

The service is offered in combination with a Novatel Wireless USB card or Novatel Wireless MiFi mobile hotspot that can connect up to five Wi-Fi equipped laptops or tablets at the same time.^[8] As of July 2012, TruConnect only provides 3G access, but will eventually provide access to 4G.^[9]

As of June 2012 TruConnect has partnered with Walmart to launch Internet on the Go. This service does not have a monthly access fee. However, in 2014, the company announced to users that credit would be forfeit if an account went a full year without use. Current packaging discloses this to prospective new users. In late 2014, Walmart stores began stocking a new MiFi hotspot for use with the service that can connect up to eight laptops or tablets at the same time.

Competition

• AT&T
• Sprint
• T-Mobile
• Verizon Wireless
• Virgin Mobile USA

References

External links

• Official website