EarthLink and Google Reach Final Wi-Fi Deal with San Francisco

8:20 pm on January 8, 2007 | Category: Internet, Regulation, Wi-Fi, Wireless Technology

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After eight months of difficult negotiation, EarthLink and Google have reached a final agreement with the city of San Francisco on the construction of a mesh Wi-Fi network.

The agreement will allow Google to provide free wireless internet access throughout the city at relatively low transmission speeds, while EarthLink charges $21.95/month for a premium version of the service. Around 3,200 low-income residents will qualify for a special deal, priced at just $12.95/month, in a move to eliminate the area’s so called “digital divide.”

“The network ensures universal, affordable wireless broadband access for all San Franciscans, especially low-income and disadvantaged residents,” explained EarthLink’s president of municipal networks, Donald Berryman.

EarthLink has agreed to pay the city in exchange for access to municipal property, including lampposts and telephone polls. Both Google and EarthLink, meanwhile, are being required to respect the basic privacy rights of users, while disclosing the full details of their privacy policies.

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    1. With many service Earthlink is providing, from wireless mobile phone services, to wireless Wi-Fi services, I believed in Earthlink commitment to bring Wi-Fi to San Francisco will be a huge effect in the wireless world, altough is not actually pass until the city board signs. I believe it will, since it does give San Francisco FREE Wi-Fi. I also believe that it will help boost some mobile devices with Wi-Fi capabilities. I see the growth this year with good returns. My target price will be $9.50 plus by mid March 2007

      Comment by initial T — January 9, 2007 #

    2. would the low-income residents even pay for internet if there was the free google access? at any rate, the details make sense to me now. The free wifi will be slower while there is a “faster speeds” option. Very nice move by the two companies.

      Nationwide VPN

      Comment by vic — March 23, 2007 #

    3. That is great news for the city of SF. Free wifi should be everywhere in the U.S. to help our community. http://afforadablet1.com

      Comment by john — November 12, 2007 #

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