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Tech riderRev. 4 Oct 2026

TextNow

Ch 027.8of 26 Peer-to-Peer Texting Software
  1. 1Runs onAndroid, iOS, Linux, Mac, Web, Windows
  2. 2CostsFree plan · paid from $35.99/mo
  3. 3SMS/MMS supportsms and mms
3 lines stated Written from the maker's own pages: textnow.com, help.textnow.com
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Overview

TextNow is ranked #2 of 26 in peer-to-peer texting software on Specifiction. It runs on Android, iOS, Linux, macOS, Web, Windows. There is a free plan. Paid plans start at $35.99/mo.

TextNow plans and pricing

All plans
Free Plan Free Unlimited talk and text · 5G data for select apps · Requires an active TextNow SIM help.textnow.com · 4 Oct 2026
Unlimited Plan $35.99/mo Monthly; renews automatically Unlimited data · Up to 10GB at up to 5G speeds, then 2G speed help.textnow.com · 4 Oct 2026

Compared on peer-to-peer texting software

Free plan
Yestextnow.com
SMS/MMS support
sms and mmstextnow.com

Facts

Service
TextNow is a VoIP service for calling and texting U.S. and Canadian numbers, with international long-distance calls available using purchased credits.help.textnow.com · 4 Oct 2026
Free app
The ad-supported free service includes a phone number and unlimited calling and texting across North America over Wi-Fi or a carrier data plan.help.textnow.com · 4 Oct 2026
Wireless service
With an active TextNow SIM, users can get wireless coverage and Free data for listed essential apps when away from Wi-Fi.help.textnow.com · 4 Oct 2026
Multiple devices
Users can access their account, messages, and call history across Android, iOS, and the web.help.textnow.com · 4 Oct 2026
Desktop apps
TextNow offers Windows and Mac desktop applications, as well as calling and texting through a browser.help.textnow.com · 4 Oct 2026
Ad-Free+
Ad-Free+ removes ads and includes number locking, verification codes, unlimited photo and video history, caller information when available, call forwarding, and voicemail transcription.help.textnow.com · 4 Oct 2026
Free data app limits
The Free data plan covers listed email, maps, banking, rideshare, and other apps; apps must be downloaded over Wi-Fi before using them away from Wi-Fi.help.textnow.com · 4 Oct 2026
Verification codes
Most verification codes require an active TextNow SIM or a recurring Lock In Number or Ad-Free+ subscription, and some services do not support TextNow numbers for verification or two-factor authentication.help.textnow.com · 4 Oct 2026
Emergency calls
In the United States and Canada, a 911 call from TextNow connects to local emergency dispatch; on mobile devices the app opens the phone’s native dialer.help.textnow.com · 4 Oct 2026
Identity verification
TextNow may request identity verification through Persona to help prevent account compromise and misuse; the page says uploaded verification data is contractually required to be stored encrypted.help.textnow.com · 4 Oct 2026
Support
TextNow support agents are available daily from 10 AM to 5:30 PM Eastern via the Help Center chat.help.textnow.com · 4 Oct 2026
Availability
TextNow says its service can be downloaded and used only within North America; U.S.-based wireless lines include Mexico roaming on every plan and Canada roaming on Plus and Unlimited.help.textnow.com · 4 Oct 2026
Company history
TextNow’s culture manual says the company began in Waterloo in 2009.static.textnow.com · 4 Oct 2026

Best TextNow alternatives

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Where it ranks on Specifiction

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Sources