Brazil Technology News
BRASÍLIA – The federal government began testing Banda Larga 0800, or Broadband 800, which aims to offer free wireless internet access. Under the program, users of smartphones, tablets and other devices will be able to visit certain websites without data usage counting against their plans.
Free Wireless Broadband Access Being Tested
Testing began on Saturday and TIM is the first carrier to offer the free access.
Eventually, just like with an 800 telephone number, with Broadband 800 service the business operating the website being visited will pay for the connection. Initially, the federal government will fund the cost of the service, which cellular carriers will market to online merchants, banks and other businesses, as well as governmental agencies.
For example, a business that sells products over the Internet can use the service to offer you free access to their site. Without incurring data usage charges, you will be able to browse products and even make purchases.
Eighty consumers in the Brasília suburb São Sebastião are participating in the first testing phase of the project. The cellular carrier TIM distributed Samsung Galaxy Y smartphones with access to the free internet service to the participants in the study.
Irene Marques da Silva, 40, was one of those chosen by the government for the study and says she is exited to discover Broadband 800. “I was happy to be chosen. It will be my first chance to surf the mobile Internet,” said Irene.
A special portal of the federal government, created specifically for the pilot project, is hosting the testing. The consumers participating in the study access the site for free and give feedback about ease-of-use, navigation and quality of service.
In addition to TIM, the other national cellular carriers Claro, Vivo and Oí are supporting Broadband 800. After the trial period, the government will define parameters of the program, which is certain to include both consumers with cellphone accounts and those using prepaid service.
