News and New Products

Barnes & Noble Launches Wi-Fi Service

Online staff -- Electronic News, 11/26/2004

Barnes & Noble Inc. has teamed with SBC Communications Inc. to make Wi-Fi service available at more than 600 of its bookstores nationwide.

Financial terms were not disclosed.

The company joins the likes of Starbucks and McDonald in offering wireless services. Through the agreement announced Tuesday, Barnes & Noble's service will come from SBC's FreedomLink.

"Barnes & Noble bookstores are marquee venues with wide availability and high customer loyalty, making them ideal locations for our FreedomLink Wi-Fi service," said Scott Helbing, senior VP of SBC consumer marketing, in a statement. "As we continue to expand our Wi-Fi network, it's important to make our service available in places where our customers already visit. And in terms of recognizable locations and a relaxing environment, few retail locations are in the same league as Barnes & Noble bookstores."

The SBC FreedomLink Wi-Fi service will allow Barnes & Noble and SBC customers to link to a wireless network at their local Barnes & Noble bookstore and café at a $3.95 charge for two hours. Customers can also sign up for an annual membership with unlimited access to more than 5,000 SBC Wi-Fi hot spots, including Barnes & Noble bookstores, for $19.95 per month.