Story by
Jon Russell
Jon Russell was Asia Editor for The Next Web from 2011 to 2014. Originally from the UK, he lives in Bangkok, Thailand. You can find him on T Jon Russell was Asia Editor for The Next Web from 2011 to 2014. Originally from the UK, he lives in Bangkok, Thailand. You can find him on Twitter, Angel List, LinkedIn.
Google is trialing an interesting new service in Jakarta, Indonesia, where WiFi Passport, an Android app that includes access to a variety of WiFi hotspots, has been spotted.
It’s not easy to get speedy, reliable Internet access in cities like Jakarta so WiFi is a popular option — with even carriers offering access points. Google and partner MOGPlay have set up a range of hotspots which WiFi Passport users can access directly from the app, with no need for repeat passwords/log-in.
The service is free for an initial 10 days, thereafter it costs 20,000 IDR (under-$2) for 20 days and 50,000 IDR (under-$5) for 50 days.
We can see how this would be attractive in emerging markets, but for now the trial appears limited to Jakarta.
➤ WiFi Passport [Google] Via Google Operating System
Thumbnail image via littleny / Shutterstock