The Federal Communications Commission has proposed a plan that would create super Wi-Fi networks all around the country—and threaten the viability of big-name cell-phone carriers and Internet providers.
But not all tech companies are against the FCC's plan. Microsoft and Mountain View-based Google are spending top dollars to lobby in support of the plan, according to a report in The Washington Post, because they believe free Wi-Fi would help drive further innovation and provide a market for more gadgets.
Cellular carriers are not as supportive. The Post reports that the FCC wants to buy airwaves that are more powerful than a typical household Wi-Fi connection, making it possible that people could opt out of traditional cell phone coverage and home Internet service.
Information was not immediately available Thursday on whether Napa Valley has free public wi-fi, or if it is being planned. A Patch blogger, has sampled numerous "hot spots" at cafes and restaurants but has made no mention of free city-sponsored wi-fi.
[Ed. Note: If you have information about free public wi-fi in Napa, please add it in the comments].
Even if it's approved by the FCC, The Post says the new network would still take several years to implement. And it's unclear how reliable the connection would be in urban areas, where many people might be using the free Wi-Fi system at the same time.
Do you think government-provided Wi-Fi would be good for Napa Valley? Why or why not? Tell us in the comments section below.
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This is just one more in a long line of corporate interests using political influence to marshall the forces of government and the taxpayers' money in support of their own bottom lines. (Think farm subsidies, bank bailouts, protectionist import duties, anti-competition professional licensing schemes, taxicab monopolies, etc.) If they succeed, Google and Microsoft will profit handsomely, and all the rest of us will lose. There is no such thing as a free lunch.
In addition to the "inappropriate" button can we get one labeled "sophmoric"?
Personally I think it is an idea whose time has come because I'm tired of being ripped off by AT&T and Comcast.
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