Google Plans To Offer Free International Roaming Schemes: Report

Google is reportedly in talks with Hutchinson Whampoa, owner of the mobile operator Three in the UK, to make international roaming for Americans free of additional costs

In a bid to create a global network that will cost the same to use for calls, texts, and data, irrespective of where the user is located, the search giant is mulling a wholesale access agreement that could help it debut in the US mobile market with its own network.

Recommended Link: 10 Best Ultraportable Laptops Of 2015 Available In India

A report in The Telegraph notes that by tying up with Hutchinson, Google could gain wholesale acesss to mobile service in the UK, Ireland, Italy, and several other countries where the Hong Kong-based investment company owns mobile networks.

Hutchinson Whampoa runs the UK's, Three network and is in the process of acquiring the UK's O2 network, currently run by Telefonica. Whampoa operates networks in Indonesia, Hong Kong, Shri Lanka, Macau, Denmark, Italy, Vietnam, Ireland, Austria and Sweden.

Recommended Link: Top 10 Upcoming Smartphones Expected To Launch in India Soon (2015)

Last month Google had announced its plan to launch a mobile network, without building mobile masts but relying on wholesale deals to use existing infrastructure both at home and abroad.

Although possible applications could include encouraging investment in new technology by the operators to improve their mobile coverage via Wi-Fi networks, an entry in the mobile network market by the likes of Google and Apple is sure to make the telecom industry uncomfortable.

Recommended Link: Moto E (2nd gen) Review: Budget Friendly Android Lollipop Smartphone

Roaming fees are very high for those who travel to other countries. International roaming fees are charged to all mobile phone services; calls, texts and data transfers.

A break from roaming fees has become a big draw and it is being used by smaller carriers to challenge larger carriers.