MacMinute notes a c|net report that Hilton Hotels, Borders Books & Music, and McDonald’s are partnering with Intel to deliver WiFi (802.11b) wireless network access in various hotels and stores around the country.
Though I’m sure they’ll try to charge separately for something they should simply build in to their costs, the latter of which would help attract consumers, the only mention of pricing thus far is from McDonald’s: one hour of free access when you purchase a combo meal.
posted on March 11, 2003 12:02 PMSee now, there would be an excellent idea. I can understand places not wanting to offer free access because they'd have plenty of people using it without providing revenue for the company. I don't like Starbucks' mentality of a monthly/annual fee for access, but this idea from McDonald's doesn't bother me at all. I see nothing wrong with offering free wi-fi access to those who patronize the store. Airports could do the same ... free access to people with a ticket. Hotels could offer it to room occupants and people registered for a conference going on at that hotel. As for Border's, well, that one could be a little tough.
Posted by: Lee Bennett at March 11, 2003 7:34 PM