Google Fi has quietly introduced support for data-only eSIMs on tablets and laptops, enabling users to access Fi’s network without tethering or using their phone as a hotspot.

The update appears to have slipped under many radars until attentive readers noticed changes in Fi’s support pages.

Here’s what we know so far:

• What changed: Previously, Fi’s documentation explicitly said tablets could not use data-only eSIMs. That statement has been removed. Now, help pages show “Google Fi supports data-only eSIM for tablets and laptops.”
• Who’s eligible: Users on the Flexible plan or Unlimited Premium plan can add data-only eSIMs at no additional cost. Users on Fi’s cheaper unlimited tier plans like Standard or Essentials cannot yet use this feature.
• Where it works: These data-only eSIMs provide coverage in over 200 countries and regions. They count toward your regular data allotment under those plans.
• Limitations: Tethering from devices with data-only SIMs is not supported. Also, the device must be eSIM-capable and unlocked.

Why It Matters: More Than Just Convenience

For frequent travelers, remote workers, and anyone who uses multiple devices, this change brings multiple benefits:

• Less friction: No need to carry spare physical SIMs or rely on hotspot tethering via phone. If your laptop or tablet supports eSIM, it can connect directly.
• Better device autonomy: A tablet or laptop can stay online independently — helpful on trips, work-on-the-go scenarios, or backup connectivity when phones are off or being used for something else.
• Global flexibility: Because the coverage is very broad (200+ countries/regions), this is especially useful for international travel.

How It Compares: Other Players & the Bigger eSIM Trend

Google Fi’s move aligns with broader telecom trends, but with some distinctions:

For example:

• Airalo, Holafly, Ubigi, among others, already offer travel-friendly data-only eSIM plans, some supporting over 190-200 countries.
• But many of those providers target phone usage, short stays, or general travel rather than using laptops/tablets for full-day remote work or as a primary data device.

So in that sense, Google Fi is stepping up: enabling a full laptop/tablet workflow rather than just being a travel data swap-in.

Expert Insight: What To Watch

• Device compatibility will matter: Not all tablets/laptops handle eSIMs equally. Firmware, regional support, and carrier locking may still block some users.
• Plan eligibility adds nuance: Fi’s restriction to certain plans means not all subscribers immediately benefit. Users on “cheaper” unlimited tiers may end up paying more or being excluded.
• Roaming vs. performance tradeoffs: Even if coverage exists ≥200 countries, actual speed, latency, and throughput may vary dramatically. Users in remote or less well-served countries may find performance weaker.

Conclusion: A Strong Move, But Not a Game Changer Yet

Google Fi’s rollout of data-only eSIMs for laptops and tablets is a welcome, forward-looking update. It delivers more flexibility and aligns with the expectations of international users and remote workers. Compared to third-party eSIM providers, Fi has the advantage of integrating this into users’ existing service plans, eliminating extra overhead, and potentially simplifying the experience.

However, it’s not revolutionary in every sense. Many travel eSIM providers already offer broad country coverage and competitive pricing, albeit with different trade-offs. The key differentiators here are device autonomy and “built-in-infrastructure” under Fi’s network umbrella. For many, this could tip the scales toward using Fi, especially if they already are customers—and especially if they travel or use laptops/tablets heavily.

Looking ahead, the bigger trends will include:

• Providers expanding true device-agnostic eSIM support (laptops, IoT, tablets) rather than phone-centric plans.
• More carriers are offering global data packages built into regular plans rather than as expensive roaming add-ons.
• Improved consistency in performance globally so that “coverage” means usable internet, not just “some signal.”

For users considering Fi: if you’re on the Flexible or Unlimited Premium plan, and you have compatible devices, this is likely a useful upgrade. If not, you may want to compare what travel eSIM services offer, and wait or move plans accordingly.