TextNow Expands Product Offering with Launch of eSim, Flexible Data Plans, and Upgraded Nationwide Network

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New survey findings: Americans rely on mobile connectivity as a daily essential

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As the original app-based mobile phone service, TextNow introduces accessible, flexible, and transparent connectivity for today’s dynamic lifestyles

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SAN FRANCISCO & WATERLOO, Ontario — TextNow, the original app-based mobile phone service, today announces its most flexible data plans yet and the launch of eSIM. Starting with free unlimited talk and text on all their plans, users can download the app and an eSIM to immediately access data plans that flex to their life and their needs. The news comes on the heels of TextNow’s upgraded nationwide 5G network, built for people who want dependable phone service without unnecessary costs.

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According to new survey data from TextNow, consumers view phone service as a fundamental essential, but are scrutinizing costs more strategically, making transparency, flexibility, and value non-negotiable. Ninety-two percent of Americans say it is important for them to have a mobile phone number in their daily life, with mobile phone service now ranking among the top five monthly bills consumers are struggling to keep up with, after food, utilities, and housing.

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The findings reinforce what TextNow has believed from the start: staying connected should not require compromise, confusion, or overspending.

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Built Around How People Actually Use Their Phones

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“Phone service isn’t optional for anyone; it’s critical infrastructure for modern life and should be just as accessible as having an email address,” said Derek Ting, CEO and founder of TextNow. “We built TextNow to allow people to take control. They decide what kind of plan they want and when they want it.”

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At Textnow’s core is the understanding and belief that phone service is not a luxury or a convenience. It’s a necessity for people to manage and grow their careers, personal lives, and finances. 36% of people interviewed noted that they use a phone to manage their money, 42% prioritize accessing healthcare, and 58% use it to contact family or caregivers.

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A Smarter Way to Manage Phone Costs

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Despite this critical dependence, consumers are not passive; they’re even more pragmatic. The top priorities when choosing a phone plan are no hidden fees or surprise charges (53%) and free calling and texting (52%), signaling a clear demand for transparency and flexibility.

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TextNow’s expanded plan options are designed for people who want freedom and clarity, regardless of their usage needs: minimal, heavy, or something in the middle.

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New plan options include:

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With more than 15 years of experience, TextNow continues to offer straightforward service with no contracts, no surprise bills, and no pressure to overspend.

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Designed for Peace of Mind

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The emotional weight that phone service costs can carry is significant: sixty-four percent of consumers say worrying about their phone bill affects their mental or emotional well-being. Among Gen Z respondents, that number rises to 77%, compared to 45% of Baby Boomers.

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eSIM is a powerful feature that lowers activation friction; with TextNow’s new free eSIM experience, getting connected is faster, easier, and more reliable than ever. Available for iOS at launch (with Android capabilities coming soon), customers can get instant access to wireless data when they need it, thanks to a quick and seamless activation process. Once activated, they are automatically enrolled in TextNow’s Free Essential Data plan, making it simple to stay connected from day one. While eSIM offers unmatched convenience, a physical SIM is still available for those who need it.

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“Our goal is to remove barriers from phone service,” Ting added. “When people know exactly what they are paying for and know they can always stay connected, it creates confidence. That is what we want to deliver.”

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TextNow’s network improvements also mean more service coverage with better speeds and reliability on its new 5G network. Users can rely on better, broader nationwide coverage.

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Meeting Consumers Where They Are

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In an age of ever-rising costs, consumers are proactively taking control of their budgets. Fifty-two percent say they plan to make changes in the New Year to better manage their finances, and 26% of Gen Z respondents plan to switch to a lower-cost mobile plan or provider.

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TextNow’s flexible approach gives people a way to adapt as their needs and priorities change, without penalties, long-term commitments, or complicated fine print. To get started, users can download the TextNow app, sign up for an account, and purchase an eSIM directly in the app as of right now.

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Survey Methodology

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These findings are based on a sample of 1,000 U.S. adults surveyed from December 12–16, 2025, by Censuswide on behalf of TextNow, to understand how Americans view mobile connectivity and its role in their financial and emotional well-being.

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About TextNow

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TextNow is on a mission to make phone service free, easy, and accessible to all as the original mobile provider to offer unlimited calling and texting, and free essential data on the network, where connection changes everything. Founded in 2009, TextNow is the largest provider of free mobile phone service in the U.S., supported by advertising. We have offices in San Francisco and Waterloo, Ontario, and our app has been downloaded more than 300 million times globally. Our phone service helps millions of people connect freely every month. For more information, visit https://www.textnow.com/, and follow us on Instagram.

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