I Left SlyNumber for Tello — Here's Why and How It Went

I made a video recommending SlyNumber for keeping your US phone number abroad. Now I need to give you an update — because I switched. This video covers exactly what went wrong with SlyNumber, how I got my number released, what it cost me, and how the switch to Tello went. No sponsorship. Just what actually happened. --- ❌ WHAT WENT WRONG WITH SLYNUMBER: Text messaging stopped working after 3 days Support responses were AI-generated with generic troubleshooting Days of back-and-forth with no resolution Had to demand they release my number for porting Lost my prepaid annual fee (non-refundable) Paid an additional $15 port-out fee Currently disputing the charge with my credit card company --- ✅ THE SWITCH TO TELLO: Set up and eSIM activated immediately Number ported in under 1 hour Calls and texts work natively — no app required Real human customer support — question answered immediately Works via WiFi Calling built into your phone Plans from $5/month, no contract --- ⚠️ CRITICAL WARNING: You MUST activate Tello BEFORE leaving the US. Tello cannot be activated from abroad. Do this before your departure date. --- 📱 HOW TELLO WORKS ABROAD: Enable WiFi Calling on your phone (built-in feature) Connect to any WiFi network Calls and texts work exactly like you're in the US OTPs and bank verification texts delivered natively iPhone users: Can also use local SIM data to route Tello — no WiFi needed MMS (picture/group texts) not supported over WiFi Calling --- 🔗 RELATED VIDEOS: Original SlyNumber video:    • US Phone Number Abroad That Banks Won't Re...   Tello vs SlyNumber full comparison:    • Tello vs SlyNumber for Expats - Which Is R...   --- 📱 TELLO: https://go.kevinfairbanks.com/tello Plans from $5/month | No contract | WiFi calling included --- ⏱️ TIMESTAMPS: 0:00 - Intro 0:27 - Why I Chose SlyNumber Originally 1:06 - What Went Wrong 3:41 - Switching to Tello 6:46 - How Tello Works Abroad (Important Details) 9:22 - Final Thoughts & Recommendation 🇻🇳 CONNECT: 📧 Business Inquiries: [email protected] Questions? Drop them in the comments! --- #Tello #SlyNumber #ExpatPhone #USNumberAbroad #WiFiCalling #MovingToVietnam #RoamingWithKevin #ExpatLife #LivingAbroad #PhoneTips --- 🌍 WHAT THIS CHANNEL IS ABOUT: I'm documenting my complete journey moving from Syracuse, NY to Da Nang, Vietnam. Not just the highlights - the struggles, the mistakes, the reality checks, and the honest truth about what it takes to make a major life change. If you're considering a similar move, or just curious about expat life, subscribe and follow along! Let's roam! 🌍 Kevin --- 📷 CAMERA GEAR I USE: 🎥 Main Camera: DJI Osmo Pocket 3 https://amzn.to/4sVntnD Perfect for vlogging and handheld shots Built-in gimbal keeps footage smooth Great low-light performance 🎬 Action Camera: DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro https://amzn.to/3LXQ4rL For mounting and rugged shooting Waterproof and durable Amazing stabilization 💡 Why these cameras? Compact, travel-friendly, and produce professional results without breaking the bank. Both cameras fit easily in a backpack - essential for travel content creation. --- ⚠️ DISCLAIMER: These are MY personal assessments based on MY research and risk tolerance. Your concerns may be different, and that's valid. Do your own research and assess your own comfort level. Some links in this description are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. This helps support the channel and my travels. Thank you for your support!