Actors Sean Hayes, Will Arnett, and Jason Bateman, known for their hit podcast “SmartLess,” are entering the telecom sector with the launch of their wireless service, SmartLess Mobile. This venture aims to offer a budget-friendly alternative to conventional unlimited data plans provided by major carriers like Verizon, T-Mobile, and AT&T.
The initiative was inspired by the notable finding that the majority of mobile users spend a significant portion of their time connected to Wi-Fi, leading to excessive costs on plans that many do not fully utilize. SmartLess Mobile’s CEO, Paul McAleese, highlighted that most Americans are often found using Wi-Fi rather than cellular data. This serves as the basis for their offerings, which are priced between $15 per month for 5 gigabytes of high-speed data and $30 for 30 gigabytes, significantly lower than typical unlimited plans which range from $35 to $65.
The concept gained traction after Arnett experienced the high costs associated with an unlimited plan for his son. This realization prompted discussions leading to the establishment of SmartLess Mobile, aiming to provide an economical solution that aligns with everyday consumer habits.
The venture aligns with a rising trend where celebrity-founded wireless carriers, such as Ryan Reynolds’ Mint Mobile and Ted Danson’s Consumer Cellular, are gaining popularity. These wireless services operate as mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs), which utilize existing infrastructure from major telecoms while often offering lower prices. SmartLess Mobile will specifically leverage T-Mobile’s 5G network.
While MVNOs face challenges in gaining visibility against established brands, the popularity of the SmartLess podcast, which ranks among the top shows on Apple Podcasts, provides a significant advantage. The podcast hosts bring a combined social media presence of over 2 million followers, which can drive attention to their new telecom service.
McAleese noted that Hayes, Arnett, and Bateman are not just endorsing the brand but are actively involved in various aspects of the business, from financing to marketing, making their commitment to SmartLess Mobile a strong selling point for consumers. The team plans to incorporate discussions about the service into their podcast, thus engaging their audience directly and seamlessly.
This innovative leap into the telecom industry not only reflects a shift in market dynamics but also showcases how celebrities can leverage their platforms to provide useful alternatives in consumer services, combining entertainment with practical solutions.