Today marks the launch of a new assault against traditional wireless phone companies as we know it.

Republic wireless has introduced one plan to rule them all! OK, well not everyone, but for $19.99 you get everything you get unlimited everything as long as you stick to wifi most of the time.

How is this possible? It will route everything through your Wifi - and when you are out and about when there isn't any wifi, your phone will work through Sprint.

How is this possible? With UMA Technology. UMA, or Unlicensed Mobile Access is something that T-Mobile has been using for a while. This technology allows your phone to use your WiFi Access Point to use your internet access for data, phone calls, text messages through your Wifi. It's not completely new as it's been used by other carriers who don't have great reception everywhere - ie, the Microcell for AT&T.

AT&T's UMA Solution

So, what is the catch for the unlimited portion? Well on WiFi it's unlimited, but when you are on Sprint (ie out on the freeway for instance) you are using up cell minutes which while is 'stated' as unlimited as well, they are hoping that you will do most of your stuff off WiFi. It's in the contract that they have a right to terminate with you if they feel that you are a really heavy user.

Is this right for you? Well most people go from home to work, 9-5 and typically have WiFi internet access available at both locations. Some of you at work may have it locked down if it'd interfere with your work

Their first phone is the well reviewed LG Optimus - specially made for Replubic Wireless. It runs Android 2.3, and I did an unboxing and review of the same phone but for Virgin Mobile here:

This still isn't for everyone though. There are some people that use their phones outside of the range of traditional wifi - people on the go a lot. For them, there are other providers that give you a lot for your money as well.

For instance, Straight Talk:

There is a launch special, and for $99, you can get in on the plan today. That includes the LG Optimus phone to boot! Use the special code: welcome19 before the end of 27th EST.