How to save money on your wireless bill – use an MVNO
If you’re paying too much for wireless cell phone service from AT&T, T-Mobile or Verizon, consider switching to a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) instead.
An MVNO is a wireless communications service provider that offers cell phone service without owning the actual cell towers or core network infrastructure. MVNOs are essentially resellers of wireless service, purchasing network access at wholesale rates from the 3 major carriers and reselling it under their own brand. MVNOs typically do not operate independent retail store-fronts. This allows MVNOs to offer lower prices than the major carriers, as they do not have to invest in building and maintaining their own networks nor operating retail establishments.
AT&T, T-Mobile and Verizon are the 3 local wireless carriers that build and maintain the cell tower network and infrastructure, but lots of MVNOs resell service on those networks for often a cheaper price.