BT Group is attempting to create the world’s largest wi-fi network by persuading millions of UK customers to turn their home wireless “hubs” into public hotspots, FT reports.
The move could create blanket urban wi-fi coverage, and allow the fixed-line operator to compete at least partially with mobile phone operators in offering internet services on the go.
“It is a potentially disruptive move. BT may see this as an opportunity to get into the mobile market through the back door,” said Ben Wood, analyst at CCS Insight.
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A country-wide wi-fi network could boost take-up of BT’s Fusion phone, which allows customers to switch between fixed-line, wireless and mobile networks.
The attraction for customers is getting cheaper calls over a wi-fi connection, but, with few wi-fi hotspots around, uptake of the phone has been slow, with only 40,000 sold to date.
Learned from the Financial Times
