According to experts, the widespread adoption of services like T-Mobile's Network Test Drive app could make it easier for users to find a mobile carrier by allowing them to test network coverage in a more realistic way.
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In late June, T-Mobile announced the launch of its Network Test Drive app for iOS devices, including the iPhone XS and later. Once downloaded, the app will allow users to test network coverage in their area without having to swap out the SIM card in their phone.
Instead, it uses the eSIM built into the iPhone, and while it has some limitations, many users, including myself, have used it to try out the network in their area. It’s not a perfect solution, but experts say that with wider adoption, it could change the way we shop for the perfect mobile carrier.
"It's super annoying when you can't get signal bars in your city, let alone your own backyard. The benefit of a 'try before you buy' program is that customers can test coverage before committing to long-term contracts," Tyler Abbott, a wireless services expert at WhistleOut, told Lifewire in an email.
