Public Mobile vs Smart Wi
Price, ratings, monetisation and update history for both apps, side by side — with what reviewers say about each.
Public Mobile
This app offers a 5G wireless subscription service with self-service account management. Activate your service, manage plans, track usage, and earn rewards. Get 24/7 online support for all your mobile needs.
- 5G subscription phone service
- eSIM activation
- Self-service account management
- Plan usage tracking
- Rewards program
- Refer-a-friend savings
- 24/7 online support
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Welcome to different. Public Mobile is a wireless subscription service that does mobility differently. Sign up for Canada's first 5G subscription phone service in a few simple steps. With the Public Mobile app, you're in control. Activate in minutes with eSIM along with an eSIM compatible device and choose from 5G speed plans and unlimited data on Canada's largest network. Manage your own account with easy, self-service features in the app. Just like your other subscription services set it and forget it. Download the Public Mobile app for free to get started. Subscribe with a few quick clicks in the app: • Select and activate your subscription • Save with a 90 day subscription • Purchase and activate your eSIM or SIM card • You can keep your phone number when you subscribe to Public Mobile. Manage your plan anywhere, anytime with My Account: • Manage your subscription • Track your plan usage • Purchase add-ons Earn points that save you money with our Rewards program: • Check rewards balance • Redeem your points • Refer-a-friend to share savings Skip the wait time with 24/7 online solutions: • Access virtual support at your fingertips • Find answers and ask questions Download the Public Mobile App now. Learn more at publicmobile.ca
Smart Wi
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Northwestel Smart Wi-Fi Take full control of your Wi-Fi experience - anytime, anywhere. The Northwestel Smart Wi-Fi app makes it easier to manage your home network with tools right at your fingertips. Set up your modem, manage devices, monitor speed, and manage your family’s online activity, all from one simple app. Key Functionalities of the App • Self-install made simple: Set up your modem, router, or gateway without needing a technician. • Manage multiple locations: Control Wi-Fi at your home, office, or cabin - all from one account. • Parental controls: Create user profiles, pause internet access, or set custom schedules for screen time. • Run speed tests: Check your internet connection or in-home Wi-Fi performance to troubleshoot slow speeds. • View your network at a glance: See connected devices, network layout, and speed results in one place. • Manage devices: Identify every phone, tablet, smart TV, or thermostat connected to your network and manage them easily. • Share your Wi-Fi with guests: Use a QR code or text message to share network details quickly and securely. • Get helpful alerts: Receive notifications about weak passwords, outdated security settings, or performance issues - and get step-by-step guidance to fix them. Supported hardware: Works with Hitron gateways, mesh routers, and extenders: CODA-4582, CODA-5712, and ARIA-3411.
Screenshots
Verdict
The clearest difference is device support: Smart Wi at 3 against Public Mobile's 1. Smart Wi also leads on iOS requirement (13.0 vs 16.1). On price, ads and in-app purchases there is nothing between them.
Scored on Price · Rating · Positive reviews · Number of ratings · Update frequency · Ads · In-app purchases · Monetization · Best chart rank · Devices · Requires iOS
Both are free to download. Neither carries in-app purchases, so what you see is what you pay.
| Parameter | Public Mobile | Smart Wi |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free | Free |
| Rating | 4.5 (234 ratings) — better | — |
| Positive reviews | 44.7% of reviews | — |
| Number of ratings | 234 — better | — |
| Update frequency | Every 3 weeks | — |
| Ads | No | No |
| In-app purchases | No | No |
| Monetization | Free with in-app purchases | — |
| Devices | iPhone | iPhone, iPad, iPod — better |
| Requires iOS | 16.1 | 13.0 — better |
| Further details — not scored | ||
| Size | 74 MB | 156 MB |
| Age rating | 4+ | 4+ |
| Developer | TELUS Communications Inc. | Northwestel Inc |
Bugs and requests
Public Mobile
Reported bugs
5 issues- Activation issues
- Logging in problems
- App crashes and freezes
- Unreliable service
- Billing and payment issues
Requested features
3 requests- Wifi calling
- Support for iPad/tablets
- Improve customer service access
Smart Wi
Not enough reviews yet to summarise bugs or requests.
In-app purchases
Public Mobile
No in-app purchases
Smart Wi
No in-app purchases
Questions
Is Public Mobile free?
Is Smart Wi free?
Do Public Mobile or Smart Wi have ads?
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