Brazilian telecom operator Oi is expanding its Wi-Fi service offerings. The carrier closed a deal with global Wi-Fi services provider iPass (NASDAQ: IPAS). Under the agreement, Oi will provide its customers with access to iPass’ Wi-Fi network through its iPass Open Mobile Exchange (iPass OMX).
Oi launched in 2011 its strategy to offer customers Wi-Fi coverage locally and internationally to strengthen its position as a complete provider of Internet access in Brazil.
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Last November, Oi announced the start of a shared broadband Wi-Fi project in Rio de Janeiro, by deploying about 150 hot spots in the Ipanema and Leblon neighborhoods in Rio de Janeiro.
The service, in partnership with iPass, is expected to be available to users within the next month.
In August 2011, Oi purchased Wi-Fi company Vex for $16.8 million.
The partnership is expected to be helpful for both companies as it broadens the service offering to an additional 780,000 hotspots in several countries.
