Microsoft Offers Free Wi-Fi in NYC, SF to Promote Windows 8

In a move to promote their soon-to-be-released operating system Windows 8, Microsoft is offering several free Wi-Fi sites throughout New York City and San Francisco from now until the end of the year.

Six Manhattan subway stops are now offering the free Wi-Fi, while a further 200+ hotzones across the city will go live on November 1.

Residents of San Francisco, meanwhile, can utilize the free Wi-Fi in hotzones located at the Union Square, Fisherman's Wharf, UN Plaza, the Financial District and Nob Hill.

The free Wi-Fi is Microsoft's method of promoting Windows 8 and, in particular, to highlight the Windows Store for app developers. The software giant also hopes consumers will get accustomed to the Windows Store by browsing apps.

"At Microsoft, we know that amazing apps are being built in New York and San Francisco, and we want to give talented developers the chance to launch their businesses through the Windows Store," John Richards, a Microsoft senior director said. "We hope our Boingo Wi-Fi sponsorship will introduce the Windows 8 opportunity to app builders in NYC and San Francisco, while providing folks with Wi-Fi connectivity on-the-go."

Windows 8 officially launches on October 26.

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