Google Wireless Carrier News Updates: International Calls & Texts May Charge Free

In March, Google has confirmed its intention to become a wireless carrier, though not for very large customer bases. Instead, the company claims becoming a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO), purchasing "wholesale access" from networks, and eventually selling cellular plans to its own niche.

Senior VP Sundar Pichai explained, "It's a very small-scale compared to the rest of the OEM industry, but it pushes the needle. I think we're at the state where we need to think of hardware, software, and connectivity together."

"We don't intend to be a carrier at scale, and we're working with existing partners," he added.

Today, Google appears to take things further, as it talked with Hutchison Whampoa, owner of mobile operator Three, The Telegraph reported.

Citing information from "industry sources," the outlet said the deal aims to let Americans use their phones, internationally, "at no extra cost." The partnership is expected to grant Google access to services in the U.K., Ireland and Italy, among other countries.

If the deal materializes, Americans will be able to use their phones with no roaming costs, regardless of the intended service (voice, text or data).

As cited by Mashable, Hutchison is described to be a "natural partner" for Google, considering the company's efforts in cutting roaming charges for Three customers.

While Google's wireless service has been rumored for quite some time, no specific timing is set yet, the outlet said.

Meanwhile, Google has no plans of entering the British telecom market, BGR cited. Nevertheless, The Telegraph is convinced that "a serious move" from either the company or Apple would spark fear in the telecommunications industry.

As a mobile virtual network operator, Google is thought to be similar to Lycamobile and Tesco Mobile, The Daily Mail said. Lycamobile runs on T-Mobile, while Tesco Mobile shares networks with O2.

As described by the outlet, an MVNO typically runs as an independent company, having its own personnel and customer service, "MVNOs don't own the infrastructure the networks are built on. Instead, they buy access to parts of these networks at wholesale prices."

"The company can then use this access to run its own wireless plans and resell the connectivity back to customers -- usually at a reduced rate," The Daily Mail added.

Google's service is previously said to be available only among Nexus 6 users. Nexus handsets, in general, are also viewed as perfect units "to demonstrate Google's vision of an ideal Android phone," the Business Insider noted.

What do you think of Google's reported mobile service deal? Does this indicate a prelude to bigger plans in the near future? Share your thoughts in the comments section.