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The New Wi-Fi Passpoint Makes Carrier Wi-Fi Roaming Easier

The New Wi-Fi Passpoint Makes Carrier Wi-Fi Roaming Easier Credit: Wi-Fi Alliance

Wi-Fi Alliance has expanded its Wi-Fi CERTIFIED Passpoint™ program to include streamlined method 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 Wi-Fi Alliance, the new features which were demonstrated at the Wireless Broadband Alliance Wi-Fi Global Congress this week expands the program’s strategic value to mobile and fixed operators, and to support the “Wi-Fi-first” business models.  WiFi Alliance said that Passpoint certification which is based on Wi-Fi Alliance’s Hotspot 2.0 specification has reached hundreds of models of smartphones, tablets, and operator-grade access points. Fixed and mobile operators, including Boingo, Orange, SK Telecom, Time Warner Cable, and Telkom Indonesia have deployed Passpoint networks, and more than 20 operators are now participating in Wi-Fi roaming trials based on Passpoint.

According to a research conducted by 451 Research among smartphone and tablet users in the United States and United Kingdom on behalf of Wi-Fi Alliance®, Wi-Fi services enabled by Passpoint have the potential to foster customer loyalty and drive measurable business value for both service providers and retailers.

"Enthusiasm for Passpoint from both mobile and fixed operators continues to mount, and the strategic value of Passpoint extends into new segments as well. What makes the new features exciting is that they empower businesses to realize the powerful commercial impact that Wi-Fi can offer by giving them the ability to engage with customers on a new platform in a secure and streamlined fashion.” 

-           Edgar Figueroa, CEO of Wi-Fi Alliance 

"Passpoint delivers vital access and security technology for Wi-Fi providers of every type, while also easing the way for effective Wi-Fi roaming interconnect agreements. The new features are important because they enable Passpoint's value proposition by making it simple to connect millions of Wi-Fi-only devices to secure, trusted Passpoint venues. Wi-Fi providers - including fixed, mobile, retail and hospitality services - should take note."

-            Ken Rehbehn, principal analyst in the 451 Research Mobility Team

Author

Ray is a news editor at The Fast Mode, bringing with him more than 10 years of experience in the wireless industry.

For tips and feedback, email Ray at ray.sharma(at)thefastmode.com, or reach him on LinkedIn @raysharma10, Facebook @1RaySharma

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