Orange and Openzone in hotspot pact

The announcement comes at the same time as rival operator Vodafone revealed that it too has an agreement with BT Openzone to enable its subscribers to access the Openzone network of hotspots from early next year.

Orange Business Solutions said that companies taking part in the three-month trial will be able to access the internet, email and corporate applications at hotspot locations from laptops with data-cards, as well as use the GPRS network and HSCSD for dial-up connections to access data.

The trial includes 400 hotpots across the UK, in a range of locations, including railway stations, airports, coffee shops and hotels.

Cynthia Gordon, marketing director at Orange Business Solutions, said: "Customers want to rely on a single operator to offer a full range of mobile services that are simple to use and manage. By offering WLAN as part of our mobility portfolio, we aim to make it even easier for businesses to access data wirefree."

The company said it would also seek further partners to develop a range of WLAN international roaming agreements.

BT Openzone aims to have over 4,000 hotspots in place across the UK by next summer. As well as partnering with mobile operators, the company plans to open the network to other ISPs and fixed line operators on a wholesale basis, enabling it to boost revenues and maximise return on investment.



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