« How to Make the Most of Google AdWords | Main | Google Updates: Microsoft creates academic search site to rival Google’s »
Google: Earthlink for wireless Internet
By Find2k | April 5, 2006
Google: Earthlink for wireless Internet
SF chooses Google, Earthlink for wireless Internet
Google Inc. and its partner EarthLink were chosen by San Francisco Wednesday to blanket the city with affordable wireless Internet access, beating out five other bidders for a chance at the highly coveted contract.
San Francisco will start negotiating a deal with the two companies, following a recommendation by a city panel evaluating the project.
The decision by San Francisco brings the prospect of free wireless Internet access for residents one step closer to reality. If completed, virtually everyone within the city limits will be able to get online — provided they have a compatible computer — whether at home, in a park or at work.
“I am still hopeful, and maybe I’m a cockeyed optimist, that we can finish this year,” said Chris Vein, executive director of San Francisco’s technology department.
In choosing to negotiate with the Google-EarthLink team, the city is going with two Internet giants with household names. Both firms have deep pockets and proven track records online, but only limited experience building a large wireless network.
The project, championed by Mayor Gavin Newsom, is intended to boost the city’s technology credentials and help bridge the digital divide between the Internet haves and have-nots. It has also generated intense interest from other cities looking to build similar networks.
As on San Francisco News
************************************************************
San Francisco picks Google, EarthLink for Wi-Fi
SAN FRANCISCO Google’s bid to blanket San Francisco with a free wireless Internet service cleared a major hurdle today when city panel identified the Internet search engine leader and EarthLink as the best candidates for the job.
The recommendation completes a six-week review and clears the way for the city to begin final negotiations with Google and EarthLink.
The companies would pay to build the entire network, which is expected to cost at least 15 (m) million dollars.
EarthLink would offer a real fast service for about 20 dollars per month.
Google’s free service would be considerably slower and financed with a heavy dose of ads.
Copyright 2006 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
As on KesQ
********************************************************
Topics: New Updates on Google |