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Some Google Maps users now get free Google Fi wireless service

Updated Dec 20th, 2022 1:16PM EST
Google Maps reviews
Image: Google

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Some Google Maps users might have recently received notifications that they qualify for free Google Fi wireless service for the remainder of the year. That’s a value of up to $195 in free service for three months of Google Fi coverage, assuming users who get the notifications want to take advantage of the offer.

Unfortunately, the Google Fi promo does not extend to all Google Maps users. There’s a key condition to trigger the Google Fi offer. But if Google keeps the deal in place, others might soon qualify. You have to be a Google Maps Local Guide to get the deal.

Google is offering the free service as a reward for contributions to Google Maps. And the promo might inspire other Google Maps users to contribute more to the navigation app. You should also check out the promos and tips Google Maps is offering for Thanksgiving and Black Friday.

If you’re contributing content to Google Maps but have not seen any Google Fi promos, it means you haven’t met Google’s eligibility conditions. Android Central and Mishaal Rahman reported on the offer, as various Google Maps users have received notifications about it.

A screenshot reveals that Google chose the Google Fi promo to thank Google Maps contributors for their additions to the navigation platform. The notification lets you redeem the promo, and there’s a deadline too. You have until October 31st to decide whether to take advantage of the complimentary Google Fi service.

Google Maps users who are also Local Guides already have a cellular plan. You need data to make the most of Google Maps. But you can still test the Google Fi line if you’ve received the offer.

There are some strings attached, however. While you can ditch the Google Fi promo after the three-month promo ends, you will have to be a first-time Google Fi user to redeem the Google Maps offer. Moreover, you will need to port your number to Google Fi. That’s an extra hassle for some people.

Also, Local Guides in international Google Maps need not wait for their Google Fi promo. That’s because the deal is valid only in the US, where Google operates its Google Fi service.

Google Maps users who want to become Local Guides can do so from the mobile app. Just look for the Contribute menu to get started. After that, you can add content to Google Maps, including reviews and photos. You may not be able to see the Street View, however, as Google is shutting that down.


More Pixel coverage: For more Pixel news, visit our Pixel 7 guide.

Chris Smith Senior Writer

Chris Smith has been covering consumer electronics ever since the iPhone revolutionized the industry in 2008. When he’s not writing about the most recent tech news for BGR, he brings his entertainment expertise to Marvel’s Cinematic Universe and other blockbuster franchises.

Outside of work, you’ll catch him streaming almost every new movie and TV show release as soon as it's available.