March 10, 2004

Bookstores and Wi-Fi

Barnes & Noble to Launch In-store Wireless Hotspots

NEW YORK (March 10, 2004) - Like its competitor Borders, book retailer Barnes & Noble will provide consumers with Internet access via WiFi (wireless fidelity) hotspots.

But unlike most public WiFi networks, where customers have only one choice of service provider, Barnes & Noble�s will allow customers to select from a variety of providers, according to the company here. Schaumburg, Ill.-based Cometa Networks, is partnering with the retailer on the project, which is slated for completion by September 2004.

�With access to...convenient broadband wireless technology, Barnes & Noble customers will enjoy not only the benefits of the highest quality of service, but a choice of leading WiFi service providers with a variety of pricing plans to fit their needs,� said Steve Riggio, Barnes & Noble�s CEO.

Posted by Craig at March 10, 2004 06:00 PM