Free Singapore-wide Wi-Fi Access Extended to Three Years

Following the announcement on 10 October, 2006, by Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, that Singapore will get to enjoy two years of free wireless broadband connections from January next year, the Infocomm Development Authority (IDA) today announced that the three Wireless@SG operators have extended this free offering to three years. Users can also begin to enjoy wireless connectivity from 1 Dec 2006, one month ahead of schedule at selected hotspots for a start.

The three operators supporting Wireless@SG, iCELL Network Pte Ltd, QMax Communications and Singapore Telecommunications Ltd will extend the free access period until December 2009.

To enjoy the free Wi-Fi basic-tier access with surfing speeds of up to 512Kbps, users can sign up with any of the three Wireless@SG network operators starting 1 December 2006. This offer is open to all residents and visitors in Singapore, and users can sign up with any operator to access all the hotspots in Wireless@SG. By September 2007, the number of Wi-Fi hotspots in Singapore will increase by more than five-fold from 900 today to about 5,000.

There are various ways users can register for the free basic services. These include online registration, where users can complete an online registration form at any of the three operators' websites. A password will then be sent via SMS to subscribers' mobile phones. If they happen to be at a Wireless@SG hotspot, they can also select the Wireless@SG network and click on the 'New User Sign Up' button found on the log-in page. Similarly, a password will then be sent via SMS. Alternatively, those without mobile phones or online access can visit any of the operators' customer service centres to register and collect their passwords. Users can also check with their operator of choice for other registration methods.

Wireless@SG will be available at public areas with high human traffic such as the Central Business District, downtown shopping belts like Orchard Road, and HDB Town Centres. Network coverage will be made available progressively from 1 December 2006 and subscribers are encouraged to provide feedback on how to improve the Wireless@SG service via email to their respective operators. Details of network coverage locations can be found on IDA's website.

In addition to the free "basic tier", there will be a paid "premium tier" for those hungry for bandwidth beyond 512 Kbps, or for connectivity options with higher-quality of service. The three operators have different packages to suit different needs and there is no limit on the number of premium accounts users can sign up for.

IDA assistant chief executive, Infrastructure and Manpower Development Group, Mr Khoong Hock Yun said, "Infocomm connectivity has the power to enrich lives. With Wireless@SG, we're another step nearer a truly mobile lifestyle for Singaporeans as the country progresses to becoming a globally connected and intelligent nation by 2015."

Wireless@SG is the Government's wireless broadband programme that aims to extend broadband access beyond the homes, schools and offices, to public places. IDA called a Wireless Broadband Market Development (WBMD) Call-For-Collaboration in March 2006, to grow Singapore's wireless broadband market and catalyse broadband adoption. It is part of the Next Generation National Infocomm Infrastructure which when ready by 2012, will also comprise an ultra-high speed wired network.