Digital Trends

iPass has launched iPassConnect, a new program for individuals that combines Wi-Fi, 3G mobile, and backup dial-up Internet access.

Best known for offering mobile connectivity solutions for corporations and business travellers, iPass is stepping into the consumer services arena with iPassConnect, a new mobile connectivity service that brings together a sizable network of Wi-Fi hotspots, 3G mobile Internet in the United States (EV-DO), and last-ditch global dial-up Internet access for as little $30 a month. The service is designed to compete with Wi-Fi Internet access plans from the likes of Boingo. iPass claims over 95,000 Wi-Fi hotspots worldwide.

"While many companies give their employees a complete enterprise mobility service such as iPass Mobile Office, others leave users to fend for themselves," said iPass VP of marketing and strategy Joel Wachtler, in a statement. "The iPassConnect mobility service gives these businesspeople the best of both worlds—a world-class network delivered in a simple and affordable package."

Additional service plans are available: the North American Wi-Fi plan is priced at $29.95 a month and includes 20,000 Wi-Fi locations in airports, Starbucks coffee shops, and McDonalds restaurants; for $44.95 a month, iPass will let users tap into their Wi-Fi locations worldwide. For $69.95 a month, iPass adds 3G EV-DO mobile access in the United States to the North American Wi-Fi plan, and $84.95 a month gets the whole enchilada: access to the global Wi-Fi network and North American 3G services. All plans include dial-up Internet access as a backup in case Wi-Fi and/or 3G service aren't available.

The service requires iPass client software for Windows 2000/XP/Vista; EV-DO service in North America also requires a PC Card EVDO modem ($125) a one-year service commitment.