T-Mobile has started the 'Preferred Wi-Fi Network Trial', a WiFi Passpoint-based carrier WiFi roaming trial by partnering Bright House Networks in the Tampa and Orlando markets. T-Mobile plans to invite 50,000 customers to opt in into the trial via an SMS broadcast. The trial uses the existing Passpoint feature on handsets to auto connect to Bright House Networks, which has approximately 34,000 public hotspots in both areas.
The Wi-Fi Certified Passpoint program that was launched in 2012 was further expanded late last year by Wi-Fi Alliance to include streamlined methods to establish new user accounts and connect Wi-Fi-only devices such as tablets and notebooks. This new addon features enable subscribers to automatically and securely connect to service provider WiFi networks.
According to T-Mobile "Passpoint is a feature on some existing Wi-Fi capable handsets that gives T-Mobile customers extended coverage by seamlessly connecting calls, messages, and data through T-Mobile Preferred Wi-Fi access points.When Wi-Fi is turned on, the Passpoint feature in the handset and Brighthouse Hotspot location will automatically connects customers when in range of a hotspot. No password is required.Customers can also download BHN Wi-Fi from the Play Store or Apple App Store to view Bright House Networks hotspot locations"
