A few weeks ago, I wrote about the potential "Super WiFi" network that could be built upon the FCC freeing up bandwidth. With enough free bandwidth, a private company could potentially set up a network across the nation and monetize it. Consumers would be given another choice for wireless and mobile data. This week, news came out that GOWEX, a wireless communications company, has activated a free, city-wide WiFi network in New York City, stretching across all 5 boroughs. The network is monetized through advertising, and users are given up to 1 MB of bandwidth per session, enough to checks emails, browse mobile sites, and read text news. The network is supported by 1,953 hotspots, spread out throughout the city. GOWEX plans to implement similar networks in at least two more locations in the U.S. before the end of the year.
With this plan, GOWEX might be creating the blueprint for Super WiFi networks. Their current implementation is more than likely using the ubiquitous 2.4 GHz band, but 5 GHz could be implemented just as easily (though at a higher cost, due to 5 GHz being short range), and if the FCC releases the unused bands as planned, we could potentially see similar city-wide networks running on the longer-range 300-400 MHz bands, using nearly the exact same layout as GOWEX is currently using. A larger telecom company could easily come in and invest in city-wide networks in major metropolitan areas, then eventually connect all those city networks with long range towers to create a robust national network.
Although it's in its infant stages right now, and severely limited in bandwidth with very large security concerns, this network could change the way people communicate, especially in a large metropolitan area like NYC. No longer would you have to seek out a WiFi hotspot in a coffee bar, or restaurant, just to check a website or an email. People can be, and probably will be, expected to be connected at all times. Whether that's a good thing or not, remains to be seen.
Links:
Engadget - GOWEX Free Wifi In NYC
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