Nintendo to offer free 3DS Wi-Fi at airports

Most users these days are “connected” during most times of their day. By “connected,” we mean connected to one another via the Internet on a mobile broadband connection. Communication is made easy thanks to VoIP clients and instant messaging software. Many mobile users realise that they can save hundreds of pounds from long-distance calls and services by logging on instead to online messaging services via WiFi.

Some companies have even resorted to offering free Wi-Fi as a means of advertising or marketing. Such was the case of Skype, which offered free wireless Internet access as part of the Internet Week Europe celebration.

Skype had stated, via their blog, that users can avail of free Skype Access from “0001 GMT on the 7th November 2011 to to 2359 GMT on the 11th November 2011, Skype Access will be free to use, so you can surf the web, send email and make free Skype-to-Skype voice and video calls at Skype Access-enabled WiFi hotspots in cafés, hotels and airports across the UK.”

Aside from accessing these services at home, many users also connect via Wi-Fi in various public areas. Most airports nowadays offer free Wi-Fi connectivity, as do most coffee shops and some restaurants.

In a marketing move, Nintendo has announced that they will be offering free Wi-Fi to highlight the connectivity features of the Nintendo 3DS. The company has struck a deal with Boingo, a well-known pay-per-Wi-Fi hotspot provider. New York City (JFK), Chicago (ORD), and Houston (IAH) are the first three areas that have been slated for the program. A total of 42 airports are included in Nintendo’s free Wi-Fi offer.

Because of the added connectivity, Nintendo 3DS gamers will be able to access the Nintendo Zone, where they can download content and view the latest offers and news from Nintendo. They will also be able to stream videos online and download games as well.

Boingo SVP Colby Goff said: “With the holiday season approaching, more leisure travelers and families with children will fill our airports and have access to our hotspots. Our state-of-the-art networks will provide Nintendo 3DS users with seamless connectivity and fast, reliable service to help them make the most of their travel downtime.”

Nintendo’s Zach Fountain added: “Nintendo 3DS is our most connected device ever, and this agreement will allow people to stay entertained while they’re on the go.”

Source – i4u