Did you know that West Edmonton Mall (WEM) has a wireless network that can be used by the public? As well, plans are under way to expand this network. The Edmonton Commerce News writes:
When the network is complete in 2006, wireless access will be available throughout the entire complex, including stores, eating establishments and attractions. Many of the mall's 22 million visitors each year will use the wirless network to access e-mail, stay connected to work, find the best sales and locate a destination.
And as further evidence of WEM's push into the digital age, they are also introducing a location-based marketing system where it gives customers the ability to receive special advertisements from nearby retailers.
The down side to all of this is that wireless access isn't free. According to the WEMiSphere
site, a day's access is around $11 and 30 day access is $35. Although somewhat pricey, I'm still glad to see WEM take the technological leap forward!
On a side note, I wonder if Starbucks will have to introduce a rule for web-surfing customers that bars them from sitting in Starbucks all day.
West Edmonton Mall WEM
wireless edmonton wemisphere