Free Wi-fi spots to be doubled in new IT initiative
Government aims to increase coverage in busy areas such as hospitals and border points
The number of free public Wi-fi connection spots across the city is to double from early next year under the government's latest IT strategy proposal.
The government suggested investing at least HK$12 million. With private sector help, that would add 10,000 more free public Wi-fi connection spots in new locations. Some 10,000 connection spots at more than 5,400 locations now cover government premises and public areas such as libraries, parks, MTR stations and shopping malls.
"New spots will be added to public hospitals. Another possibility is the border control points," said Daniel Lai, government chief information officer.
He said the government would collaborate with Wi-fi service providers to add new spots.
The government's own free Wi-fi coverage has cost taxpayers at least HK$212 million since its launch in 2008. It is available at 400 locations, such as libraries, sports grounds and government buildings.
The service, GovWiFi, was criticised by the Audit Commission in April for its limited availability and unstable performance, which caused low usage in some places.