Republic Wireless testing plan to pay back subscribers for unused data each month

Hybrid Wi-Fi/Cellular carrier Republic Wireless says that the average smartphone user is paying $16 a month for service they never use. So starting on May 18th, Republic subscribers selected to beta test its Maestro "Lab" will receive a refund at the end of each month for the amount of data that they pay for, but don't use.

Republic has some other so-called Labs that they are testing over the next nine months including Salsa, which will test out a smooth handover from cell networks to Wi-Fi. So far, Republic has figured out how to make "seamless Wi-Fi to cell" connections and is hoping to be able to do it the other way around. Hi-Hat is a Lab that will allow beta testers to decide which phones Republic will offer next. Bridge will allow Republic subscribers to access their phone and messages from other devices like a tablet or desktop computer. Lastly, Tempo will allow beta testers to try out phones that connect to an extended cellular network for those times when Republic subscribers are not able to access a Wi-Fi network.


Republic Wireless offers a range of low priced monthly plans starting at $5 a month for unlimited talk, text and data over Wi-Fi. The priciest plan, $40 a month, offers unlimited talk, text and 4G data using a combination of Wi-Fi and cellular networks. With this plan you are entitled to 5GB of high-speed data over the cellular network before getting throttled. Phones available with the carrier include a 16GB second-generation Motorola Moto X ($399), 16GB first-generation Motorola Moto X ($299), 16GB first-generation Motorola Moto G ($149) and the 16GB first-generation Motorola Moto E ($99).

source: RepublicWireless via AndroidCentral