It appears that Microsoft is working to build its own cellular network that would require a the company’s own SIM card. Today, at the Windows Store, a number of users have spotted the Cellular Data app, which seems will be offering mobile data service from Microsoft that users will be able to get on their Windows 10 devices.
While the software giant has yet to share the official details for this new service. According to various reports, users will be able to select from a number of plans without a contract. The plans are prepaid and users will be able to pay through their Microsoft Accounts.
The Cellular app in the Store offers the following description:
“Connect with – and pay for – a mobile data plan on your Windows 10 device using only your Microsoft account information. That means no fixed contract and no long term commitments to a mobile network operator. Now you can buy and use mobile data at your own convenience. This is the easiest way to get online using a trusted nationwide network. Purchase a plan via Windows Store anywhere network coverage is available.”
Although, the mobile data service will be available on Windows 10 PCs and tablets, there will be some requirements, as it will only work with Intel-based devices and requires a Microsoft SIM card.
The app is available for download immediately, but the information provided notes that the mobile data will be available at the beginning in the United States, France, and the UK. The FAQ also specifies that the service will only work on the country of purchase, but roaming offers may become available in a near future.
In addition, it seems that Microsoft is partnering with Transatel, a French telecommunication company, to offer its own SIM card to allow access to internet connectivity.
At this time the software maker doesn’t have many Windows devices offering LTE support, only a small number of Surface models. However, it’s possible that with this new service, Microsoft may be planning to add more devices with LTE connectivity, such as an LTE option for Surface Pro 4, and may be other PC makers might just follow as well.
What do you think? Would you use a Microsoft data plan to access the internet? Let us know in the comments below.
Via ZDNet
Mauro Huculak is a Windows How-To Expert who started Pureinfotech in 2010 as an independent online publication. He has also been a Windows Central contributor for nearly a decade. Mauro has over 15 years of experience writing comprehensive guides and creating professional videos about Windows and software, including Android and Linux. Before becoming a technology writer, he was an IT administrator for seven years. In total, Mauro has over 21 years of combined experience in technology. Throughout his career, he achieved different professional certifications from Microsoft (MSCA), Cisco (CCNP), VMware (VCP), and CompTIA (A+ and Network+), and he has been recognized as a Microsoft MVP for many years. You can follow him on X (Twitter), YouTube, LinkedIn and About.me. Email him at [email protected].