San Antonio-based AT&T (News - Alert) Inc. is set to make its 10,000 Wi-Fi hotspots free to almost all of its broadband Internet customers.

 

 The generous offer from the telecom giant enables its broadband customers save up to $240 annually.  The free service will come into effect next week.

 

Earlier, only those customers who signed up for AT&T's premium broadband services plans could gain access to its hotspots free of cost.

 

Now more than 10 million broadband customers-- most of AT&T's high-speed Internet subscribers, will have free access to AT&T’s largest network of hotspots across United States.

 

As of today, Wi-Fi hotspots in United States cost a considerable sum for users.

 

AT&T wireless customers who use Apple (News - Alert) Inc.'s iPhone currently must get a Wi-Fi package to use their iPhone at AT&T hotspots, but they now can use their iPhones at hotspots for free if they are AT&T broadband Internet subscribers, noted a report from Associated Press.

 

 “Consumers today expect and demand a premier broadband experience — including a consistent, reliable connection no matter where they are. And that’s exactly what we’re focused on. Our priority is to keep our customers connected,” said Rick Welday, chief marketing officer, AT&T Consumer.

 

The free Wi-Fi offer will be available to new and existing customers who subscribe to any of AT&T’s broadband services with downstream speeds of up to 1.5 Mbps, 3.0 Mbps, or 6.0 Mbps.