pass it on
I was extremely pleased to learn about this company called FON. I was even more pleased to learn that Google and Skype recently funded them (not to mention Sequoia Capital and Index Ventures). The concept of a big, global wireless network can not and will not be stopped. The idea that it might be created, even partially, by individuals banding together and spreading the network at the root level is one that makes the global network concept that much more enjoyable.
The long-term goal of FON is to have 3 types of users:
(1) Linus. This is someone who is both a sharer and a user of the FON network. In exchange for sharing their internet connection, they get free access to all FON internet connections around the globe.
(2) Alien. This is someone who does not share their internet connection, and therefore pays to access FON internet connections around the globe. They might need such access as they travel for business or pleasure.
(3) Bill. This is someone who does not access FON internet connections, but does shares their internet connection. Because they don’t access other FON internet connections, they receive 50% of the fees paid by Aliens to access their FON connection.
Apparently FON is working with ISPs (Internet Service Providers) to get them to buy into the concept. Without permission from an ISP, a user who shares their access might be violating their terms of agreement, in which case the ISPs will take appropriate action against the user. Obviously FON is pitching some sort of payment and/or revenue share deal to the ISPs, but even still, I can’t imagine many ISPs giving their blessing to this model.
I’m not sure is FON will be able to pull this off, but I hope they can. And fast enough to grow to critical mass before other widespread wireless internet initiatives gain serious momentum. Either way, whether they succeed or fail, ultimately the FON idea is a brilliant one. It’s an innovative concept, it’s utilizing a grassroots effort, and it’s putting increased pressure on the Telcos to recognize that an efficient global wireless network will be implemented, one way or another.
I’ve just completed my registration to become a Fonero (that’s what they call their members), and I’m looking forward to participating.