Citizens in Taiwan will be able to enjoy free wireless Internet service in public places nationwide starting October, the Ministry of Transportation and Communications said Aug. 5.
“The objective of this service is to bring people convenience,” said Shih Zen-chung, director of the MOTC Management Information Center. For example, he said, “people will be able to look up information online immediately with their electronic devices when they make business trips to government agencies.”
Shih said locations offering Wi-Fi services will include airports, government agencies, post offices, schools, tourist information centers, tourist attractions and train stations.
“The ideal is to provide an average broadband of 512K, but the actual speed will depend on the number of people using the service during a specific period,” Shih explained.
He added that users will need to register online with their cell phone numbers in order to enjoy the service, while an authentication code will later be approved, allowing users to access such service nationwide.
“The purpose of registering phone numbers is to prevent the use of Wi-Fi in public areas for the commission of crimes,” Shih stressed. “Currently, phone service providers require two forms of identification for mobile phone number applications. This allows judicial authorities to trace the offender when a crime is committed through this channel.”
Foreigners who have local cell phone numbers can also apply for the service, Shih said.
According to Shih, Wi-Fi installment nationwide is slated for completion at the end of August, while services will be tested in September. Citizens will be able to register Oct. 1 when the services will be launched. (THN)
Write to Grace Kuo at morningk@mail.gio.gov.tw