Google deals with Sony, Motorola, and city councils as it works for free WiFi
IDG has some interesting details on just how Google plans to work this whole free WiFi thing, including their efforts at interoperability with device makers such as Sony, Motorola, Nintendo, Siemens, and Philips. Apparently, a few development groups are even coming to Google "behind [their] CEO's back" in instances of potential voice applications for the proposed San Francisco network, and the current one in Google's hometown of Mountain View. Along with the challenges of getting the PSP and other devices online, Google is looking at ways to monetize their network, which looks to involve a bandwidth capped free version, along with a premium version that could be resold. They're also working on location based advertising, allowing merchants to ping you with ads when you enter their area, making targeting more effective. Sounds like they have quite a bit to work through, especially with getting through all the bureaucracy involved in San Francisco, but hopefully it won't be long until they're busting out this free, VoIP-loving good stuff all over.
[Via Joystiq]
