Do People Want An Extra WiFi Client?
I know that Boingo currently makes its subscribers use their special Boingo client software to connect. I’ve always wondered if that’s something of a hurdle for some users, who don’t want to download an extra client. Now, PCTEL and WiFi-Texas.com are introducing their own “Segue Roaming Client” to help people access free WiFi at places like Schlotzsky’s Deli. It’s unclear if this client software will be required, or is just offered as an add-on for people who want to make life easier. While I can almost understand it with a fee-based system, it seems like quite an extra hurdle if people are required to get the software on a for-free offering. It’s adding another layer of complexity that could confuse a user. Not that the experience of getting on a WiFi access point couldn’t be better. I’m sure the client software really is helpful – but it’s the sort of thing that will simply become built in to the operating system in the near future.
