Affordable and easy to access, Total Wireless earned popularity as a reliable option available mostly through Walmart. It appealed to users wanting basic mobile service without getting tied to long term contracts. The company behind the scenes has changed over the years. They originally operated under TracFone Wireless, but it’s now managed by Verizon, one of the biggest telecom providers in the U.S. The transition brought major upgrades to its service and network reliability.
TracFone– Where Total Wireless Started
Obviously, TracFone was a main player in the prepaid phone market for decades, managing several brands, Total Wireless included. It didn’t own cell towers but partnered with major carriers to keep prices low and coverage wide.
Launching
With aim to deliver solid service at competitive prices, Total Wireless emerged from TracFone’s family of budget brands. It found a strong retail presence through Walmart and attracted customers looking for simplicity and savings.
Verizon Buys TracFone
In late 2021, Verizon acquired TracFone Wireless, pulling in over 20 million prepaid users along with it. Total Wireless came along with that deal, officially shifting to Verizon’s ownership.
What Shifted After the Acquisition
Apparently, Verizon started modernizing the brand from network improvements to upgraded plans. Most noticeably, it transitioned customers to its own network infrastructure, bringing better data speeds and coverage.
A Better Network Behind the Brand
After deal, Total Wireless users gained access to Verizon’s full 4G LTE and 5G footprint. This upgrade clearly improved performance, especially in areas where coverage was previously spotty.
How Customers Benefited
Along with improved speeds, users started seeing new features, like mobile hotspot access, app improvements, probably few of discount coupons and a more polished customer support experience.
Brand Identity Under Verizon
Not quite. While the name stayed for a while, Total Wireless eventually became part of a larger overhaul. Verizon streamlined its prepaid services, combining several brands under one cohesive strategy.
Where It Fits in Verizon’s Portfolio
Total Wireless joined a group of known prepaid names, like Visible and Straight Talk, all managed and operated under Verizon’s prepaid division.
Name Switch: Total by Verizon and Back Again
In September 2022, Verizon rebranded Total Wireless to Total by Verizon. The update included new visuals, improved plan options, and a push toward a more premium feel.
Returning to the Original Name in 2024
By mid 2024, Verizon brought back the Total Wireless name. Many customers preferred the familiarity of the original branding, and Verizon responded by restoring it without losing the improvements made during the rebrand phase.
New Plans and Improved Features
Users now enjoy expanded data, international features, and even loyalty perks. From entry level to more robust plans, Total Wireless has kept its pricing competitive while offering more value.
Modern Look, Solid Service
With its current setup, Total Wireless balances strong network performance with straightforward plans, ideal for individuals or families on a budget.
Why the Total Wireless Ownership News Matters
With Verizon handling operations, Total Wireless now runs directly on a top tier U.S. network. No rerouting through third party systems; just fast, reliable service nationwide.
Better Plans, Smoother Experience
Influence of Verizon’s brought modern features, better apps, and easier online management; something the old setup lacked.
Is Total Still Active?
- Yes—And It’s Back in Full Working Power
After briefly operating as Total by Verizon, the brand returned to its original name in July 2024. The change reflects Verizon’s decision to stick with a name customers already trusted.
How to Get It Today
You can buy Total Wireless products and plans:
- At totalwireless.com
- In-store at Walmart, Target, Best Buy
- Or directly from Verizon’s retail channels
Other Prepaid Names Now Under Verizon
Alongside Total Wireless, Verizon also manages:
- Simple Mobile
- SafeLink Wireless
- Net10 Wireless
- Straight Talk
These brands share Verizon’s infrastructure, which boosts performance across the board.
Why It Was a Smart Business Move
Currently, Verizon didn’t just want the users, it wanted the market share. Acquiring TracFone allowed Verizon to instantly dominate the prepaid sector without needing to build a new brand from scratch.
How This Affects Support and Service
Service channels have expanded. Customers now benefit from 24/7 live chat, better-trained support reps, and more helpful in app features.
Better Experience
From setting up plans to troubleshooting device issues, the entire process feels smoother now that Verizon has fully integrated support across its prepaid brands.
They and Walmart: Still a Team?
Walmart was once the main source for Total Wireless deals; think bonus data bundles and 4-line plans at discounted prices.
Where It Stands Now
Walmart still carries Total Wireless products, but it’s no longer the only player. You can now activate and manage your plan directly online or through the app, with broader availability.
Takeaways for Shoppers and Users
- Total Wireless was once under TracFone, now managed by Verizon
- Verizon fully acquired the brand in 2021
- The name was temporarily changed to Total by Verizon in 2022
- In 2024, the original Total Wireless name was restored
- It operates entirely on Verizon’s network
- Service quality, plan options, and support have all improved
One noticeable thing is that Total Wireless has gone through major changes; new owners, new branding, better service. But at its heart, it still delivers what users loved in the first place: low cost plans with no contracts and solid nationwide coverage. Back under its original name and fully powered by Verizon, the brand feels familiar but runs better than ever.
