Google's Free WiFi for the Holidays
Complimentary Wireless Internet Service for Holiday Travelers
Nov 15, 2009
In a sour economy, finding ways to save money is pretty important. With many people struggling to pay their bills, the upcoming holidays adds a bigger burden to people’s pocketbooks. Between presents, holiday meals and travel, the extra expenses incurred during the holiday season are enough to put even jolly ole’ Santa Claus in a sour mood.
But two companies are coming to the rescue for weary holiday travelers. Google is giving holiday travelers an early Christmas present this season – free wireless Internet at many of the nation’s major airports! And Virgin America is also offering free open access Internet in air.
It is estimated, that more than 100 million people will fly during the holiday season this year. With over-booked flights, bad weather and weary travelers, staying connected with friends and loved ones during long wait times can make the difference between cranky passengers and happy customers. And when the open access is free of charge, long wait times may not be so bad after all!
So this holiday, pack up your wireless device before you fly the friendly skies and stay connected with friends and family, for free!
Google’s Free Holiday WiFi Campaign:
Google Inc. will be offering free WiFi until January 15, 2010. Currently, the free service is offered in 47 airports across the United States. Just a few of the airports that are participating include Houston, Miami, St. Louis, Las Vegas and San Jose. For a full listing of all participating airports, visit Google’s Free WiFi for the Holidays website.
Free WiFi for the Holidays Details:
- No login, credit card or email information is required in order to use the free service.
- Once the Terms of Service (TOS) are accepted, access is available.
- It is important to note, the TOS prohibits viewing pornography or obscene content.
Pay it Forward:
Once logged on, travelers can pay the Christmas cheer forward by making a charitable donation to Climate Savers Computing Initiative, One Economy Corporation or Engineers Without Borders using Google Checkout. And even better – Google will match the wireless donations dollar for dollar, up to $250,000! The airport that generates the highest donations, will be the lucky recipient of $15,000 to donate to a local nonprofit!
Google Holiday WiFi Photo Contest:
Beginning November 16, 2009, travelers will be able to participate in the Google Holiday WiFi Photo Contest. In order to enter, upload a photograph of yourself using the free WiFi service at participating airports or during your flight on Virgin America. Prizes will be awarded and winning photos will be displayed on the Google website.
Virgin America’s Free In-Flight Internet:
Last month, Virgin America announced it will be offering a similar service. From November 10th through January 15, 2010, all of Virgin America’s aircraft will be equipped with free in-flight Internet, powered by Gogo Inflight. Even while cruising at 35,000 feet, connecting is easy! Just launch a web browser, connect to the GoGo Inflight signal or turn on a supported wireless device. It is as simple as that!
GoGo Inflight Internet Service Requirements:
- GoGo is compatible with most Smartphone’s including BlackBerry, Apple iPhone and iPhone 3G, AT&T Tilt, Windows Mobile and Nokia. A complete listing of devices is available on the GoGo website.
- Laptop requirements include 802.11 a/b/g wireless and a IE 6 and 7, Mozilla Firefox and Safari for Mac OS X.
And for even better news - two airports, Seattle and Burbank, will offer the free wireless service indefinitely! Due to the collaboration between Google, Virgin America and the 47 participating airports, traveling during the holidays has never been more enjoyable!
For more information on Google, please read:
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