IPASS EASES WI-FI ROAMING FOR SPRINT PCS

Virtual network operator iPass plans to reveal this week that Sprint PCS, which launched public Wi-Fi offerings just last week, is the first partner in a new iPass services program designed to help carriers maximize Wi-Fi hot spot roaming.

The iPass Wi-Fi Roaming Services program leverages the company's Global Broadband Roaming (GBR) footprint, which consists of 2400 public Wi-Fi hot spots and 1000 Ethernet access venues iPass has certified for secure remote Internet connectivity for enterprise users. Under the services program, iPass acts as a clearinghouse, facilitating roaming relationships between carriers and independent hot spot operators in the GBR footprint.

Redwood Shores, Calif.-based iPass also will allow user authentication and complex transaction processes across many different hot spots, and will help carriers integrate billing with their traditional voice and data billing if needed.

“The public Wi-Fi model is so fractured, and we can be the bridge between all the islands for carriers,” said Jon Russo, vice president of marketing at iPass. In the Sprint PCS offering, iPass will facilitate the carriers' interfaces with its hot spot partner, Wayport.

Russo said the Sprint PCS deal culminates two years of work that began when iPass won Sprint PCS's Wi-Fi request for information.