IP Democracy: Google Proposes Free Wi-Fi in San Francisco

As part of Mayor Gavin Newsom’s TechConnect initiative, Google has submitted a proposal to offer free Wi-Fi across the city of San Francisco, according to a spate of reports. Google’s proposal confirms, at least in part, speculation first surfaced by Om Malik that the Internet giant is eyeing full-fledged entry into the wireless broadband access business.

While the service would be free to all, an offer that other bidders in the city Wi-Fi contest would be hard pressed to meet, the speed of the offering is 300 kbps, far slower than most DSL or cable modem options. Google is already offering Wi-Fi services in Union Square and in Bryant Park, New York City.

Posted by Cynthia Brumfield on October 1, 2005 9:44 AM to IP Democracy