BT Openzone, BT's Wi-Fi arm, and Broadreach Networks , have reached an agreement to allow customers to roam on across each others Wi-Fi hotspots in the UK.Under the agreement, Broadreach customers will be able to use any of Openzone’s 1,500 hotspots in the UK and Openzone’s customers can roam across Broadreach’s network. The 350 ReadytoSurf fixed and Wi-Fi wireless internet locations include many major train stations.The deal will add to Openzone's roaming network, taking the total to over 7,800 hotspots in the UK, although Broadreach customers can only use Openzone's network and not any of it's partners.“This agreement with Broadreach is another step towards Wi-Fi access in the UK being similar to the cashpoint system whereby everyone can access Wi-Fi through everyone else’s networks at no extra cost. In order for Wi-Fi to work effectively, companies must work together and offer reciprocal roaming to customers.""This partnership will broaden the appeal of Wi-Fi for our customers so they will be able to access their networks when travelling on trains. It also takes BT one step closer to achieving its Mobility and Convergence vision - providing its customers with access to all their applications and information on their choice of device, utilising the best network available with one customer experience.” Chris Clark, chief executive, BT Wireless Broadband
