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Google and other Web companies are sponsoring free Wi-Fi.// (C) 2009 Photos.com |
This holiday season, travelers will be able to access complimentary Wi-Fi Internet at various airports, public spaces and airplanes thanks to Google, Yahoo, eBay and Microsoft. The increased Internet accessibility is a reflection of a growing trend among travelers who wish to utilize the Web while traveling, whether on the road, at the airport or in flight.
Through Jan. 15, Google is providing free Wi-Fi access in 47 airports nationwide, including those in Houston, Seattle and San Jose, Calif. When travelers log on at one of the designated airports, they will also be asked if they would like to donate money to three charities, and their donation will be matched by Google. Passengers onboard Virgin America flights through Jan. 15 will also have access to free Wi-Fi as well, courtesy of Google.
EBay Inc. is providing free Wi-Fi on certain Delta Air Lines planes during the week of Thanksgiving and, since September of this year, Microsoft Corp. has also given away complimentary Wi-Fi access at various hotels and airports in an effort to promote its new search engine, Bing. And in a pedestrian zone of New York City’s Times Square, visitors will also be able to access free Wi-Fi this holiday season courtesy of Yahoo Inc.
