rosiesdad - 10/27/2024 08:09

First you need to understand something

What is a mobile virtual network operator?
A mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) is a reseller of wireless communications services.

An MVNO leases wireless capacity (in effect, purchases minutes) from a third-party mobile network operator (MNO) at wholesale prices and resells it to consumers at reduced retail prices under its own business brand.

MVNOs lease and resell capacity from MNOs in the form of minutes or data bandwidth. MVNOs operate under their own brand, and customers may not always be aware they are actually using a network owned by a different company. They purchase this capacity at wholesale prices and can afford to offer competitive or discounted retail prices due to their lower overhead costs."

There are many MVNO's out there, because they use somebody else's network isnt all bad. Just cheaper.
I have always used a MVNO, and will be changing MVNO's soon.

There is basically 3 Cell Companies, Verizon, ATT, and T-Mobile. (at least in our area) You may have the advantage of a real store to get a phone and set up your account with the BIG 3. If you dont mind working things out over the computer or phone, you can save some real money.
I am guessing the reason MVNO's are allowed is the same as why ATT home phone service was broken up years ago. For competition. Period...