TextNow announced Wednesday that iHeartRadio will be included as a select app in its Free Flex Plan, allowing customers to stream music and live radio using included 5G data.
The move marks TextNow’s first major content integration as the app-based wireless provider expands its strategy to build a free content ecosystem into its mobile service. The company said the partnership reflects a broader shift toward more flexible wireless offerings that align with how consumers use their devices.
TextNow’s Free Flex Plan includes nationwide talk and text, along with limited 5G data access for select applications. Users can purchase additional data as needed rather than committing to traditional monthly contracts.
“With iHeartRadio now part of the Free Flex experience, customers can activate a free eSIM and immediately access music and radio,” the company said in a statement.
The announcement builds on TextNow’s recent rollout of eSIM technology and flexible data plans, which allow users to activate service directly through the app without requiring a physical SIM card.
TextNow CEO Derek Ting said the partnership reflects changing consumer expectations.
“People don’t want their phone service locked into one rigid model anymore,” Ting said. “Our mission is to make the old way of paying for phone service obsolete. Adding iHeartRadio to the Free Flex Plan is a clear example of delivering more value at no cost.”
iHeartRadio offers access to thousands of live radio stations, curated playlists, and personalized music streams across devices.
Michael Biondo, president of business development and strategic partnerships at iHeartMedia, said the partnership expands access to audio content.
“iHeartRadio is built to be everywhere its listeners are—in the car, at home, and on the go,” Biondo said. “This partnership helps bring that experience to millions more users.”
TextNow said the iHeartRadio integration is now available to eligible Free Flex customers.
