Microsoft enters muni WiFi

The move duplicates Google' strategy. Google, along with Eartlink, will build a WiFi network in San Francisco. Microsoft will help MetroFi in providing a free, ad-supported wireless network in Portland, Ore. Revenue from the ads will fund the network's operations. Microsoft will also provide local search, mapping and welcome page at log on. For Microsoft, it is a first run, but it is interested to go on if things are doing well. 6 to 12 other network builds are likely underway. Profitability is the main question to go on. The muni wireless market should be worth about $3bn over the next four years in the US, according to MuniWireless.