Project Fi meets Android One, starting with the Moto X4

The Android One Moto X4 is the latest device to join the very limited list of Project Fi-compatible smartphones, making it the first modern and affordable Project Fi phone.

There are two Google initiatives that in my humble opinion are brilliant but highly underappreciated and underutilized: Android One and Project Fi. Android One, if you didn’t know, launched back in 2014 as an attempt to bring secure and (relatively) pure Android software experience to lower-range devices in emerging markets. Project Fi, on the other hand, is the search giant’s US-based mobile network, which promises to connect you to the best LTE networks not just in the US but also when roaming in 135 other countries.

One of the major drawbacks for Project Fi was its limited list of supported devices. For the longest time ever, you only had four choices: the Nexus 5X, Nexus 6P, Pixel, or the Pixel XL. The two Nexus phones were reasonably priced but came with antiquated hardware; plus, they’re not even available anymore. The Pixel phones start at $649, which isn’t particularly cheap. Ah! Only if Google could combine Project Fi and Android One, bringing the best networks to affordable phones with unadulterated Android software!

Well, that’s exactly what’s happening: Google has announced today that Project Fi will be welcoming Android One, starting with the Lenovo-made Moto X4. The Android One Moto X4 will be the latest phone to join the short list of Project Fi-compatible phones, and the only Project Fi phone to be priced under $400 right now. In fact, officially priced at $399, the Android One Moto X4 will be the cheapest Project Fi compatible phone available for purchase.

This means that in addition to its sleek design, 5.2-inch 1080p screen, powerful dual-lens camera, and juicy 3,000 mAh battery, the Android One Moto X4 will run on pure Android and receive timely updates all the while connecting to the best LTE networks throughout the world thanks to Fi. Google points out that if you own a select Nexus device and want to trade it in for a new device, it will offer up to $165, and if you do so by October 5, it’ll add an extra $50 Fi credit.

What are your thoughts on Google’s recent announcement? Are you excited about Android One coming to Project Fi? Let us know by leaving a comment below!