Wifi Revolution

Zipit Wireless Inc. has signed a significant agreement with Wayport, Inc., that allows Zipit users to access free WiFi service at nearly 9,000 Wayport-enabled McDonald's restaurants across the United States.

The WiFi (News - Alert) service is scheduled for launch in mid-November 2007. Zipit owners will receive an instant message informing them that their Zipit software has been updated to enable them to connect for free at Wayport hot spots in McDonald's.

Zipit Wireless’ Z2 device has the ability to support all of the most popular instant messaging platforms favored by teens -- AOL (News - Alert), Yahoo and MSN. This unique device Z2 also features MyTunez, a fully capable music player. MyTunez enables Z2 users to listen to their entire music collection and simultaneously IM with friends while connected to Wayport’s service. Zipit Wireless’ Z2 device takes full advantage of existing home networks, as well as publicly available WiFi networks without any monthly or per message fees.

“We are pleased to announce our alliance with Wayport. This relationship is a real plus for our customers,” said Frank Greer, CEO and president of Zipit Wireless in a statement.

Greer believes that by enabling their devices to access Wayport’s service at McDonald's, they have given their customers the assurance that no matter where they go in the United States, there is always one place to go where they can freely IM with their friends.

Dave Vucina, CEO of Wayport said that by enabling Zipit users to access their WiFi network at McDonald's, they are continuing to offer more value to their customers and increase the relevancy of WiFi to this customer base. Vucina added that the combination of Zipit's innovative Z2 product with Wayport's secure network and customer support will provide a high quality, IM experience at thousands of locations nationwide.

Wayport designs, develops and enables software and applications over carrier grade networks for innovative organizations in a number of vertical markets encompassing retail, health care, hospitality, managed services and others.

Zipit Wireless Inc. is a Greenville, S.C.-based developer of consumer electronics.

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Anuradha Shukla is a contributing editor for TMCnet, covering call centers, CRM and information technology. To see more of her articles, please visit her columnist page.

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