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Facebook Deploying Free WiFi Finder in Mobile App

Facebook is cooking up a new tool that will make it easier for users to find and access free WiFi hotspots. Facebook confirmed the new functionality to Venturebeat, which notes that the functionality is only being deployed in "select countries" to start. The functionality appears to be available for some users right now through the iOS app, and can be found under the "Enable Find Wi-Fi" in the Facebook mobile app menu settings.

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"To help people stay connected to the friends and experiences they care about, we are rolling out a new feature that surfaces (sic) open Wi-Fi networks associated with nearby places," a Facebook spokesperson says of the offering.

If the option is there and enabled, the app will locate local places where open WiFI hotspots are available, then give you the name of the business or location offering it, and how long it will take users to get there.

This isn't Facebook's first flirtation with WiFi. Back in 2012 the company trialed a system that gave users access to free WiFi if they were willing to check in to a location publicly using the Facebook app.


Most recommended from 8 comments



battleop
join:2005-09-28
00000

2 recommendations

battleop

Member

Uhh no thanks

No matter what "features" they add in not installing their app on my phone. I just don't trust them to not abuse the app in the name of being helpful to users.

These companies who make huge portions of their revenue from advertising revenue can't be trusted.