Google to Introduce Fast Wi-Fi Service Globally

Google’s parent company Alphabet has unveiled plans to extend its fast Wi-Fi program across the globe. Dubbed Google Station, the initiative has its roots in the company’s free Wi-Fi project across Indian train stations. Google will now roll-out the same service to cafes, malls, bus stops, and other busy public spaces, as part of its strategy to target the “next billion” internet users.

“We have been working with RailTel and Indian Railways to bring Wi-Fi to railway stations across India. Soon, we will be bringing Google Station to even more locations in India and around the world,” Google says.

In a blog post today (27th September), Google revealed that, after successfully introducing Google Station to more than 50 railway stations, it will expand the project to as many viable locations as possible.

“Last September, we announced our partnership with Indian Railways and RailTel to provide Wi-Fi at 400 railway stations in India,” the post reads. “Right now, more than 50 stations provide high-quality Internet to 3.5 million people each month. In our research together with IPSOS, we estimate that 15,000 Indians come online each day through these stations.”

“With these kinds of results, why not expand beyond railway stations, and even beyond India?” Google reveals. “By getting great Wi-Fi into the world’s malls, bus stops, city centers, and cafes all around the world, millions more people will be able to learn, play, chat, work, and find the information they need.”

“So today we’re announcing Google Station, which gives partners an easy set of tools to roll-out Wi-Fi hotspots in public places,” the post adds. “Google Station will provide software and guidance on hardware to turn fiber connections into fast, reliable and safe Wi-Fi zones. Users will get a fast Wi-Fi experience with a simple and unified login, while making it much easier for venues to manage their networks.”