Oops, AT&T Did It Again: Posts, Pulls Free Wi-Fi Offer
Date : 18 Jul 2008 Category : Technology
NewsFactor NetworkThe now-removed notice reportedly read, "AT&T knows Wi-Fi is hot, and free Wi-Fi even hotter, which is why we are proud to offer iPhone customers free access to the nation's largest Wi-Fi hotspot network with more than 17,000 hotspots, including Starbucks. Now users can relax and access music, e-mail, and Web browsing services with their favorite blend in hand from the comfort of their favorite location."
AT&T confirmed that the notice was posted in error and removed. A spokesperson said the company does intend to offer the service in the future.
Starbucks has announced plans to close 600 stores nationwide, so AT&T's figure of 17,000 hotspots could be a bit high. Besides Starbucks, the company said the hotspots include more than 8,000 restaurants, 31 hotels, 12 airports and 18 convention centers.
In May, the company reportedly backed off its announcement after discovering that anyone could get free access by using the iPhone's Safari browser.