Microsoft signs a WiFi access deal with Devicescape for Windows Phone 8 users

MOBILE DESIGNER Microsoft has signed a deal with Devicescape to offer Windows Phone 8 users access to WiFi networks.

Microsoft's Windows Phone 8 is arguably the firm's last chance to make up ground on Apple's IOS and Google's Android and the company is pulling out all the stops as it tries to make its mobile operating system an attractive proposition. The firm has signed a deal with Devicescape so Windows Phone 8 users can automatically connect to WiFi hotspots rather than rely on flakey 3G or 4G mobile networks.

Devicescape claims its virtual WiFi network contains 100 million hotsports that have been pretested for performance, with the firm calling the service a curated virtual network (CVN). The firm doesn't provide the hotspots, but rather a single login for users that can be used within its virtual network.

Devicescape CEO Dave Fraser said, "By leveraging the Devicescape network of public hotspots, Microsoft can now pass along tremendous value to its Windows Phone 8 users enabling them to locate a nearby quality WiFi network. Windows Phone 8 users will now have an alternative way to manage their monthly data plan while maintaining the quality of service they are accustomed to from their mobile provider."

Nokia has given its Lumia 920 4G connectivity, however the prices of 4G service coupled with a pathetic 500MB data cap from the only UK operator EE mean that offloading to WiFi wherever possible is the best option. Now that Microsoft has signed a deal to allow Windows Phone 8 users to do that, EE might find it even harder to sell its overpriced 4G service. µ