How to turn on the free data hour without the app?

[fido_user128]

Hi everyone,

I have a small plan with 2GiB +5 hours of data and no intention to switch. Although I usually stay within the allowed limit, from time to time I need to turn on the 1 hour free data to make sure I don't go over. Previously, this was possible within the Fido app, but the latest update (mandatory) isn't compatible with my phone.

I tried to install it on a more modern, SIM-less phone just to check, but the app refuses to toggle this without cellular connectivity, which is a bit ridiculous since it's linked to my account.

As I can't change phones, would there be another way to toggle this function on or off, say, with a special text message, just like we can to add (billable) data "on the fly"?

[KAPABLE-K]

Hello @fido_user128,

Welcome to the community!

Unfortunately to activate the free 1-hour session it has to be done through the app on the mobile device as this is how it authenticates that the correct number is being activated.

What is the make and model device you are using? 

[fido_user128]

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this is how it authenticates that the correct number is being activated.

What is the make and model device you are using? 

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That's why my question also includes a sub-question on how to activate this feature from a simple text message just like it's possible with data add-ons.

I'm using an iPhone 5s.

[KAPABLE-K]

Hello again @fido_user128, let me rephrase, the only way to activate the free 1-hr session is through the app on the device using the mobile connection.

I looked into the requirements for the Fido app on IOS and it does require IOS 13 or newer, unfortunately, you will need to get a compatible device to use in order to use the Fido app.

[fido_user128]

Still, that doesn't explain why data add-ons can be added through a text message but not the 1-hour session.

[KAPABLE-K]

Hello @fido_user128 those are two different things and at this time the only way to activate the free 1-hour is through the app on the device using the mobile connection.