New island-wide wireless infrastructure

The WiFi infrastructure is estimated to cost a total of $100 million, of which $30 million will be subsidised by the Government will be ready by September 2007. Strategically, the infrastructure investment will reinforce Singapore as a place to do business. 3 companies have been entrusted to setup this infrastructure - Singtel, iCell and QMax.

Starting from January 2007, with a laptop, smart mobile phone and PDA that can detect Wireless Fidelity (WiFi), a technology that transmits data via radio signals can get on this infrastructure. This FREE, zero-dollar unlimited-usage, offer will last three years. Free connectivity will first cover areas with high human traffic, such as Orchard Road and the Central Business District (CBD), before reaching thousands of other designated public areas by September 2007.

The free service will enable users to surf seamlessly throughout the country´s 5,000 "hotzones" regardless of the service provider. For instance, SingTel has been designated to run the WiFi network in the northern parts, including Bishan and Orchard Road. But Internet access in those areas will also be open to subscribers of iCell or QMax.

On the downside, Singaporeans should not expect to gain free WiFi access from their home. The hotzones are designed to cover public areas, such as HDB town centres and bus interchanges.

References:

QMax Communications Pte Ltd
31 International Business Park
#05-05 Creative Resource
Singapore 609921
www.qmax.com.sg

iCELL Network Pte Ltd
151 North Buona Vista Road
#02-40/41 The AccelerationPhase
Z.Ro Technopreneur Park
Singapore 139347
www.icellnetwork.com

Singtel Wireless
www.singtel.com

Updated On: 06.12.11