iPass and Uber partner to bring Wi-Fi to the Rio Olympics

By Lulu Chang August 5, 2016

Guide to watching the Olympics online — Image used with permission by copyright holder

To say that Rio de Janeiro has had problems preparing for the Olympics would be quite the understatement. But even if you can’t connect the plumbing in your hotel room, rest assured that you can connect to Wi-Fi. It’s all thanks to a new partnership between iPass and Uber, which will “provide international Uber riders with free and secure Wi-Fi in Rio de Janeiro.” This could be particularly important as concerns around insecure internet networks around Olympic venues grow more prevalent.

As part of the new collaboration, iPass says, the mobile connectivity company plans on giving Uber riders access to its network of more than 1,350 iPass commercial hot spots across the city. Many of these hot spots, the firm notes, are located in Rio’s most popular sporting venues, so folks will be able to easily get online and share their experiences at the Games in the midst of all the action.

iPass also provides much of the internet coverage in hotels, tourist-frequented neighborhoods, and other points of interest in the city.

“Mobility is a major challenge during an event of this magnitude,” said Gui Telles, general manager of Uber in Brazil. “To help Uber riders have a seamless experience, we are partnering with iPass to provide access to Wi-Fi all around Rio.”

Gary Griffiths, president and CEO of iPass, echoed these sentiments, noting, “We are extremely excited to be working with Uber to provide Wi-Fi access to its international rider base in Rio. Like Uber, iPass is in the business of connecting people. And therefore, we see this as a natural partnership.”

The iPass and Uber promotion begins today with the start of the Olympic Games, and will run through August 21. So if you’re planning on being in Brazil for the next couple weeks, get in an Uber, and get online.

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