Register or log in to join the discussion!
Jacqui Cheng-July 26, 2010 at 6:32 PM UTC
AT&T may not be able to expand its 3G network capacity at lightning speed, but it can at least expand the availability of its free WiFi hotspots to reduce the 3G data load. The company announced on Monday that after launching WiFi “hot zones” in New York City earlier this year, it will introduce WiFi “hot zones” to more cities, focusing on areas with the largest 3G traffic.
Charlotte, North Carolina will be the next city to pilot the AT&T hot zone. WiFi coverage will extend along South Brevard Street (near NASCAR Hall of Fame Plaza) to East Trade Street and Lynx Light Rail. AT&T said that a similar report will be made in Chicago "in the coming weeks," but the company did not specify which areas of the city will be included.
When AT&T first launched the hot zone in New York in May, the operator stated that it focused on areas where 3G traffic and mobile data usage have always been high. That test obviously worked well—after all, AT&T’s data network is notoriously bad in New York, so any probation is welcome. Of course, AT&T subscribers hope that the actual data network can be improved everywhere, but for now, as AT&T expands its infrastructure, hot spots will have to stand up.
You must log in or create an account to post a comment.
Join the Ars Orbital Transmission mailing list and send updates to your inbox every week.
CNMN Collection WIRED Media Group © 2021 Condé Nast. all rights reserved. Using and/or registering any part of this website constitutes acceptance of our user agreement (updated on 1/1/20) and privacy policy and cookie statement (updated on 1/1/20) and Ars Technica appendix (effective on 8/21/) 2018). Ars may receive sales compensation through links on this website. Read our affiliate link policy. Your California Privacy Rights | Do not sell my personal information. Without the prior written permission of Condé Nast, you may not copy, distribute, transmit, cache or otherwise use the information on this website. Ad selection