Travel Technology - Boingo Wireless Unlimited for $9.95 per month (not an introductory rate)

Edit - Update: As of June 2009, this offer is no longer a limited time special as described in my original message below. It seems that $9.95 is the new price for their unlimited service. However, it does appear that they do not have as many partners as they used to. Instead of following the complicated instructions below, you can now just go to the Boingo website (http://www.boingo.com/) and the $9.95 link is right there - no promo codes necessary.

------------------------------------------

Boingo wireless offers unlimited wireless internet at thousands of wireless hotspots around the North America for $21.95 per month. I've occasionally used Boingo's Pay as you go service ($7.95 per day).

Since May they've been emailing me to "upgrade" to Boingo Unlimited for $9.95 per month "for life". It's their normal unlimited service with no contract, you can cancel anytime. This is supposedly targeted to Boingo AsYouGo customers, I called Boingo (got a rep in seconds ^) to ask about a few details. The rep described the normal $21.95 rate, and then sometime after I mentioned that I'd used the AsYouGo service, she said that they were offering a limited time special for $9.95 per month to upgrade - I hadn’t yet mentioned the offer. She specifically told me that this rate was for those upgrading from the AsYouGo service. However, in fiddling around with their website, it seems that it is possible to sign up without previously having an account.

Here’s the process:

Go to Boingo’s website (http://www.boingo.com),
Select the Sign Up Now link for Laptop WiFi
Scroll down to a link that says “Have a Promotional Code? Click here.”
Enter UNL01090USD0 as the Promotional Code


This will take you to a page that shows $9.95 per month for unlimited wireless. Follow the instructions and it takes you to a page where you can set up your account – it doesn’t seem to require any old AsYouGo account information.

Note that I haven’t actually signed up yet so I don’t know for sure that you can get through the entire process, but it appears that way. This seems like a really good deal, especially considering that you are able to use hotspots from T-Mobile, Wayport, AT&T, Sprint, and IBahn. However, I’m just not sure that I would use it enough to justify it, even at that rate. I use PDANet with my Treo755 (Sprint) whenever I can’t get free wireless access an airport or hotel. I do end up spending $8 to $12 for a day’s worth of hotspot access occasionally when I need faster service or just can’t get a solid Sprint signal, probably about 6 times per year. The $120 per year fee would be more than I currently spend on Wi-Fi access. However, it would be nice to be able to have faster service more consistently, and be able to use my phone when on the internet at more hotels and airports.

I’m a bit wary about Boingo’s software – I'm not sure I want it to fully take over my wireless internet connectivity. Does anybody know if the Boingo hotspot service can be used without the Boingo software?

Does anybody know if the Boingo hotspot service can be used without the Boingo software?
You don't need their software. You can just log-in from the hotspot's gateway page by selecting Boingo as the roaming partner and entering your user info.

Now if only there was one for Boingo Global...

I can confirm this works; after putting in the promo code the monthly price switches to $9.95.

Very cool. ^^

I hope you don't mind getting some credit for the discovery here (http://boardingarea.com/blogs/traveltechtalk/2008/07/17/boingo-for-less-than-half-price/).

Very cool. ^^

I hope you don't mind getting some credit for the discovery here (http://boardingarea.com/blogs/traveltechtalk/2008/07/17/boingo-for-less-than-half-price/).


I don't mind the credit at all. The interesting thing is that I've been getting these emails since May. I should note that the last email that I received said "last chance". And when I asked the rep today, she told me that she didn't know when the limited time offer ended. But then I just re-read the latest email I received and I finally noticed something I missed before - "this offer expires July 31st." So if you want this deal, better sign up soon.

Updating the boardingarea blog with this might make sense too.

Also, someone on the blog noted that it's only good for the US and Canada. This is correct. You can use the service overseas as well, but you are charged a per minute fee. The phone rep told me that the per minute fee varies from $0.12 to $0.25. That's really steep and could add up very quickly. Boingo offers AsYouGo service for $9.95 per day outside of North America. But the rep told me that you would need to have a separate AsYouGo account to get that rate. And of course they also offer a $39.95 Boingo Global rate where there are no "premium" international charges.

One more important point - Earlier today I skimmed through the Boingo customer agreement and found that they have an overall usage limit of 3,000 minutes per month. For most people that wouldn't be an issue, but a heavy user could burn through that fairly quickly. That's the equivalent of 100 minutes per day, or about 6 typical "work" days of 8 hours per month. It would.

Another limitation that jumped out at me from the agreement is that the service is only supposed to be used by one person on one device.

Thanks for the caveats - definitely useful information!

Althoough I already subscribe to T-Mo HotSpot, I went ahead ans signed up (thanks again to PDX-RDM-AVL-TPA for the step-by-step instructions - I had a problem seeing the promo code link) for Boingo. I'll keep both for a little while and test out Boingo - the discount pricing makes it a reasonable beta :)

I just signed up as well. I've got a work trip this coming week to Atlanta and the hotel I'm staying in participates. Paying $9.95 for the month is way better than $12.95/day for the three days I'll be there. Heck - paying the $20 rate would've been better. Now I just have to remember to cancel next month if I'm not going to use it...

One nice thing about using their software is it does include a VPN client, which works even from open access points. I've seen VPN services charging about $10/mo, so you get the VPN service and free wifi at that point :)

One nice thing about using their software is it does include a VPN client, which works even from open access points. I've seen VPN services charging about $10/mo, so you get the VPN service and free wifi at that point :)

Does Boingo VPN have to be activated manually each time you connect? Do I understand correctly that the VPN works even when connecting to a non-Boingo hotspot, e.g. a free wifi connection in a hotel?? Thanks very much.:confused:

Thanks for this- I was *this* close to signing up for ATT WiFi ($20/mo) and getting rid of my ($40/mo, no contract- I hate contracts) T-Mo account. Considering I have Sprint 3G and 99% of my T-Mo is used at Starbucks, which just switched to ATT, I really have no use for the T-Mo any longer if I can get any nationwide WiFi solution for cheaper.

One alternative for some: maybe everyone knows this but if you register a Starbucks card and use it or re-load it (purchase any amount or re-load any amount) every thirty days, you get 2 free hours of ATT wifi per day. (http://www.starbucks.com/cardrewards/) I've confirmed that it works at both Starbucks and McDonalds, and would assume that any other ATT Wifi hotspots work too.

Every time you use your Starbuck card it resets the 30 day clock. So whatever you think of their coffee or their prices ;), a $1.85 charge for a small (excuse me TALL cup) every 30 days may be the best deal for wifi right now if there are ATT hotspots where you need them.

One alternative for some: maybe everyone knows this but if you register a Starbucks card and use it or re-load it (purchase any amount or re-load any amount) every thirty days, you get 2 free hours of ATT wifi per day. (http://www.starbucks.com/cardrewards/) I've confirmed that it works at both Starbucks and McDonalds, and would assume that any other ATT Wifi hotspots work too.

Every time you use your Starbuck card it resets the 30 day clock. So whatever you think of their coffee or their prices ;), a $1.85 charge for a small (excuse me TALL cup) every 30 days may be the best deal for wifi right now if there are ATT hotspots where you need them.

Good info--never knew about this. I'd definitely take advantage of this if it really does work at all ATT hotspots. Anyone know for sure?

I got this deal from Boingo a coule of months ago and I consider it a great deal. I do pretty well with wfi these days along with my ATT Uverse that gives me free wifi on their networks.

OK, now that I have it, this is turning out to be a bad purchase for me.

Evidently, despite the "thousands of available hotspots", so far I'm 0-for-4 in trying 'cause none of the places I've tried (ATT @ Starbucks, Coffee Bean, McDs and this one hotel) have a pulldown for logging in via a Boingo account.

The Boingo pages say you don't need to run their connection manager (and I never will, since I run Linux 99.9% of the time) to log into places, but I guess that's not at all true. Sending an E-mail to support (with "I don't run Windows" prominently in both the Subject: and body) got me a E-mail a couple of days later inviting me to "Download their Connection Manager!" from some drone.

So, before I go cancel (thank God this was a no-contract offer!), does anyone know what magic incantation goes into the various login/password screens so I can use my Boingo credentials in any of these many hotspots?

Evidently, despite the "thousands of available hotspots", so far I'm 0-for-4 in trying 'cause none of the places I've tried (ATT @ Starbucks, Coffee Bean, McDs and this one hotel) have a pulldown for logging in via a Boingo account.
the little boingo client doesn't work for me most of the time. At McD's, I had to dig around and find the roaming partner page, then log in. I've found most places will take either "boingo/username" or "boingo\username" in the login field if the boingo client doesn't work.

Thanks, Goalie. (I've tried something like that, but perhaps I didn't use the right slash).

I just connected via Boingo at an AT&T WiFi-enabled SB for the first time (using "boingo/mylogin" as the login and selecting "Other Provider"). I'd tried this before and had gotten a message saying "This partner disallows roaming access" or the like and thought the two entities didn't have an agreement.

If this continues to work at various SBs, I'm done with my T-Mo for good now (esp. since I've got CDMA 3G); I've paid for this $10/mo Boingo service for 3 mos now and this is the first time I've been able to use it, but that still works out to be cheaper than the $40/mo T-Mo is getting me for.

Wow, good timing, I signed up for the trail a few months ago and was debating whether the full fare price was worth it. For $10/month, I'm going to cancel my exsiting account and re sign up.

IIRC, the initial offer had an expiration date of July 31st.

One alternative for some: maybe everyone knows this but if you register a Starbucks card and use it or re-load it (purchase any amount or re-load any amount) every thirty days, you get 2 free hours of ATT wifi per day. (http://www.starbucks.com/cardrewards/) I've confirmed that it works at both Starbucks and McDonalds, and would assume that any other ATT Wifi hotspots work too.

Update: the last several times I've tried at McDonalds, it hasn't worked. :(

... I've paid for this $10/mo Boingo service for 3 mos now and this is the first time I've been able to use it ...

... the last several times I've tried [to use a SBs' card for ATT WiFi] at McDonalds, it hasn't worked.
You just made me realize I'm a liar- I did actually use my Boingo account about 3 weeks ago at a Mickey D's in LA. (As it was my first time in a McD's in about 5 years, I had an order of small fries, too. :))

This is also what they have available at Boston-Logan. They advertise Wi-Fi at Logan airport and then you log on and then they get you. I joined anyway months ago and it is a heck of a cheaper than using my old broadband Verizon card. $60 a month vs $20 a month. ^

Note that Boingo recently increased international rates quite significantly.

And I was cut off for going over 3,000 minutes - as someone pointed out, very easy to do so... My account was terminated although they kindly continued to charge me until I disputed it. I will admit that customer service was quite good in the end, but still frustrating.

Boingo Unlimited - Special Offer!
Enjoy three months of service at $9.95 per month for unlimited Wi-Fi usage. Afterwards, monthly membership fee will be $21.95 for unlimited usage. Wi-Fi connections made outside the U.S. and Canada are subject to additional premium fees.

Boingo Global
Travel worldwide with a monthly Boingo Global membership and say goodbye to roaming fees and per-minute premium charges. Boingo Global is a flat-rate plan that gives you access to every Boingo hotspot around the world without incurring additional charges. Your credit card will automatically be billed $59 EACH MONTH. Please note THIS IS A RECURRING Monthly SUBSCRIPTION, but you are free to cancel anytime.

Boingo AsYouGo
Enjoy Boingo Wi-Fi for the next 24 hours at this hotspot for just $7.95. Future connections will be billed at just $7.95 per connection at individual hotspots within North and South America, $9.95 per connection at individual hotspots in Asia/Pacific, and $19.95 per connection at individual hotspots in Europe, Middle East, and Africa.

MisterNice

If I have Boingo installed in my computer, on the pay-as-you-go basis, and I am at a location where there is free wireless, does the Boingo still allow me to connect without charge?

If I have Boingo installed in my computer, on the pay-as-you-go basis, and I am at a location where there is free wireless, does the Boingo still allow me to connect without charge?

If you authenticate using Boingo then you'll pay the Boingo rates. If you just connect to the free hotspot then it will be free. When the box pops up asking if you want to connect to the Boingo site you need to choose judiciously.

Okay, I just spoke with Boingo. I am going to be in the States from Nov 27 until Dec 8, and I will not need it when I am in Israel or Europe.

They signed me up at the $9.95 rate and told me I can cancel at any time. Because I originally took Boingo on a pay-as-you-go basis on the 13th of a month, my billing cycle starts and ends on the 13th. They are only going to charge me proportionately for the period starting today and ending Dec 13, meaning that I will pay $5.90. This is cheaper than making one connection at ATL so it is definitely worth it to me.

Moreover, it doesn't matter if I connect through Boingo elsewhere (like in FLL where they have both Boingo and a free connection). I will still only pay the $5.90.

They said that while there is a limit of 2000 minutes per month outside of the US, there is no limitation at all in the country.

Tagging along on this thread because it's related...

Has anyone tried to do the "prorated" thing with their global plan? We tend to travel for long weekends internationally, so we're there like 3 days or so. And we do this 5-6 times a year. It would be nice to have access to this, and it's cheaper than the AT&T broadband global plan.

As an example, I just looked for locations near our hotel in Madrid. While ours doesn't participate, there are some very close that do. I assume I could just walk into their lobby, sit down and connect.

But I'd want to do the $60/month plan and "cancel" after 3 days, then do it again for the next trip. I'd even sign up for the $9.95/month forever plan, keep that, and upgrade/downgrade as needed for the international. Since the AT&T broadband gives us many locations in the US for WiFi (in addition to the broadband itself), it wouldn't be as useful here, but would be worth it for the international aspect.

I'm just wondering about their policies with such sorts of behaviors.

Cheers.

I switch back and forth as my travels vary with long stints in America then long stints elsewhere.

About 50% of the time they forget to switch me back and overcharge me, but they do do a rebate when pressed.

I switch back and forth as my travels vary with long stints in America then long stints elsewhere.

About 50% of the time they forget to switch me back and overcharge me, but they do do a rebate when pressed.

Basically, you call and switch to global when you will be overseas, then call to switch back when in the states? Sounds like the way to go for international WiFi access ^

Cheers.

...Boingo customer agreement and found that they have an overall usage limit of 3,000 minutes per month...That's the equivalent of 100 minutes per day...

...register a Starbucks card and use it or re-load it (purchase any amount or re-load any amount) every thirty days, you get 2 free hours of ATT wifi per day. (http://www.starbucks.com/cardrewards/)...

120 minutes per day > 100 minutes per day

only downside is its just ATT

Basically, you call and switch to global when you will be overseas, then call to switch back when in the states? Sounds like the way to go for international WiFi access ^

Cheers.

Yes, works for me! I can't say if there are short term moves allowed, as I tend to be on long trips at a time of 6-8 weeks in N America, then the same time in Europe, etc. I also cancelled completely for a few months recently, then restarted when I needed it.

So I don't know if they would prorate on a monthly basis, but even for a month at the new $59 intl fee it is far less than the 10-20 Euro/day hotel internet fees.

Just make sure that you get the confirmation number when they make the switch, and watch your billing statement!

Yes, works for me! I can't say if there are short term moves allowed, as I tend to be on long trips at a time of 6-8 weeks in N America, then the same time in Europe, etc. I also cancelled completely for a few months recently, then restarted when I needed it.

So I don't know if they would prorate on a monthly basis, but even for a month at the new $59 intl fee it is far less than the 10-20 Euro/day hotel internet fees.

Just make sure that you get the confirmation number when they make the switch, and watch your billing statement!

Well, I called them and was told that there was no problem with switching as often as I wanted. I will, of course, monitor the billing to make sure it happens...and keep note of the confirmation number. The CS rep seemed so cheerful, helpful and it appeared that they were very flexible.

As an aside...the "$9.95 forever" promo code mentioned upthread still seems to work :)

Cheers.

I just got an email from Boingo:


A Special Invitation from Boingo!

Dear yyznomad,

If saving money was one of your New Year's resolutions, then your friends at Boingo can help! As a valued AsYouGo customer, we'd like to offer you a special deal on Boingo Unlimited for just $9.95 a month!

For only $2 more than one AsYouGo connect day, you get unlimited monthly access to nearly 50,000 Boingo Wi-Fi hotspots throughout North America. Plus, there are no contracts and no cancellation fees! Upgrading your account is quick and easy, just click here!

Boingo offers more than just Wi-Fi in the airport - we're actually the world's largest Wi-Fi network. Boingo is the ultimate out-of-home Internet solution! So, whether you’re around the corner or across the continent, Boingo keeps you connected. Here are some great ways on-the-go customers use Boingo:

* Going out of town? Unwind by streaming music or your favorite TV shows to your laptop at one of the thousands of Boingo hotels, including Hilton®, Sheraton®, & Marriott®.

* Need a change of scenery? Take a break from the office and head to your local Starbucks® - or any of the thousands of cafés in the Boingo network. Sit back, relax, and send "venti" sized files while sipping a latte.

* Traveling to a big meeting? Log on to Boingo at more than 275 airports across North America and download your 10MB presentation in no time. Don't worry, with Wi-Fi speeds up to 9x faster than 3G, it's a breeze.

To enjoy this limited-time offer today, just click here, and we will upgrade your account to Boingo Unlimited. Don’t delay! This offer expires March 15, 2009.

Thanks for letting us help you stay connected.

Best Regards,

Dave Hagan
President & CEO
Boingo Wireless


So now it looks like it expires March 15, 2009. Anyone else get this email? Although I've been a pay as you go customer for awhile, this is the first time I've received this offer despite others getting this offer last year. Anyone with updates on service improvements?

Anyone with updates on service improvements?

I've found the service to be good, but the website to be poor in terms of reliability in telling where the sites actually are. According to their site, there are no locations in Peru. Sitting in the LIM airport, up pops the GoBoingo thingie. Website says 6 locations in Istanbul; seems they have 10. Trying to get information on website updates from their customer service is painful.

I'm thinking about switching to iPass (www.ipass.com) as they have a combined broadband and wifi deal for a little more than my AT&T broadband +Boingo...and the iPass includes the international Wifi.

Cheers.

I've found the service to be good, but the website to be poor in terms of reliability in telling where the sites actually are. According to their site, there are no locations in Peru. Sitting in the LIM airport, up pops the GoBoingo thingie. Website says 6 locations in Istanbul; seems they have 10. Trying to get information on website updates from their customer service is painful.

I'm thinking about switching to iPass (www.ipass.com) as they have a combined broadband and wifi deal for a little more than my AT&T broadband +Boingo...and the iPass includes the international Wifi.

Cheers.

Thanks for the update.

I'd consider iPass but I'd also like to use it at Sbux, and other Canadian stores/shops/etc. The only restos within a 50km range that offers iPass connection are McD's!!!

Thanks for the update.

I'd consider iPass but I'd also like to use it at Sbux, and other Canadian stores/shops/etc. The only restos within a 50km range that offers iPass connection are McD's!!!

iPass does Sbux, at least in the US. Are the offerings that different in the Great White North between the two?

Cheers.

iPass does Sbux, at least in the US. Are the offerings that different in the Great White North between the two?

Cheers.

Perhaps they are? Not sure.

I went to the iPass site and searched for all hotspots within 50km range of my residence and didn't get a single coffee shop. Just hotels, airports (YYZ T1/T3, and YHM), and a handful of McD's!

I'm thinking about switching to iPass (www.ipass.com) as they have a combined broadband and wifi deal for a little more than my AT&T broadband +Boingo...and the iPass includes the international Wifi.
Just be aware of the rather low usage cap on the 3G service:

http://www.ipassconnect.com/terms?plan=12862
You may not use any 3G wireless connectivity for: (a) for uploading, downloading or streaming of videos, music or games; (b) with Web camera posts or broadcasts, automatic data feeds, or telemetry applications; (c) as a private line or Frame Relay service substitution, service or like equivalent; or dedicated data connections or like equivalent; or (d) as a connection that is simultaneously shared amongst multiple machines or users.

You agree that iPass retains the right, but not the obligation, to restrict or terminate your iPassConnect mobility service for laptops account at any time, if iPass, in its sole discretion, determines that you are in violation of this Agreement and/or iPass's Online Policies. You agree that if you violate your license by sharing your iPassConnect mobility service for laptops account with another party or breach the terms and conditions of the iPassConnect mobility manager software EULA, iPass will explicitly retain (i) all rights set forth herein including the right to terminate your access to the iPassConnect mobility service for laptops, (ii) all legal and equitable remedies against you, and (iii) in addition to and not in derogation of all other remedies available to iPass, iPass shall have the right to impose an administrative/investigative charge to your Account. iPass may change its Online Policies at any time by changing them online. You are responsible for checking them online.
Fair Use Policy
In the event that your usage of the 3G wireless connectivity service is greater than 5 GB (or such other level as may be advised by iPass, such level not to be lower than 2 GB) in any 30 day period, then within 7 business days of receipt of iPass' written request to do so, you will procure that your usage of the service is reduced to no higher than that level. If the usage is not reduced to no higher than that level within 7 business days following receipt of the written request from iPass, then iPass reserves the right to terminate your use of the 3G wireless connectivity service (mobile date) upon not less than 3 business days' written notification to you. Notwithstanding the foregoing, iPass or its suppliers reserve the right to suspend or terminate your access to the network without notice to anyone who uses the 3G wireless connectivity in any manner prohibited above or whose usage adversely impacts the 3G wireless (mobile data) network.

All the majors have 5GB caps now.

I have Sprint, use it at least weekly (and for work and play), and seldom go over 1.5GB/mo, and this is all the while surfing, using VNC, downloading a few ... uh ... "adult videos", getting tarballs, buying songs on my iPod Touch (I have a 3G-to-WiFi broadband router) etc., etc. While I know there's folks who have SPCS 3G as their only broadband connection, I won't lie when I say that if caps keep the big-GB/month downloaders from overloading a cell I'm on, I can't be bothered to feel sad about it.

Just be aware of the rather low usage cap on the 3G service:



[QUOTE=kennycrudup;11200167]All the majors have 5GB caps now.


Yup. My current AT&T is 5GB as well. Since we only use this when traveling in the US to have access, I'm lucky to use a couple hundred Meg a month...some months not even that. If I really looked at the economics- not worth it, but we like having it. I'll never run into the cap. Even AT&T's international broadband, with the 100M limit, would work in most cases, but the prices are exorbitant, IMO.

Cheers.

does this usd9.95 allows outside us usage for minimal charge?

does this usd9.95 allows outside us usage for minimal charge?

If you have the basic $9.95 plan you can use it outside the US for $0.12/minute. Alternatively, you can sign up for the international wifi plan ($59/month) for only the days you'll be overseas- basically $3/day, prorated to when you want it.

Cheers.

if only it was free 2000 minutes global

I've had some issues with Boingo. Signed up for the North America unlimited plan. Was recently staying at a hotel in London that I thought offered free Internet access for all guests, but was wrong.

The hotel wanted 15 pounds (about $20 at the time) to connect. I thought I recalled Boingo offering free hotel connections worldwide to NA unlimited users. Regardless, I figured having the subscription would get me a discount on a one day international pass.

I did not have the GoBoingo software installed at the time, so I used the hotel's roaming partners login page. It stated that there MAY be a premium fee for access. Once I agreed, the first thing I did was log in to the Boingo website to figure out what fee would be charged.

Their website is terrible, especially the account management section. The best I could find was a Customer Support FAQ. The first entry reads like this:

How will AsYouGo prices change?

Effective October 22, 2008, Boingo will change the price for AsYouGo connects. Boingo AsYouGo customers who connect in North, Central and South America can now enjoy Boingo Wi-Fi at their fingertips for $7.95 USD/$9.95 CDN per day. AsYouGo customers connecting in the Asia Pacific region can use Boingo for $9.95 USD per day. Customers connecting in Europe, the Middle East and Africa can gain access for $19.95 USD per day.

Please note these new daily rates provide 24 hour access for each hotspot location. Connections made from additional locations will result in an additional charge at the daily rate per location.
Reading that, I took it to mean I had purchased a 24 hour "AsYouGo" pass at a hotspot in Europe for $19.95. Just to make sure, I then downloaded the GoBoingo software, reconnected, and got the pop up that stated a "premium" fee may apply. But again, no dollar amount.

Ended up purchasing two days, thinking I would pay $39.90. Got home to find a charge of over $150...

I called the customer support line and encountered a very stubborn and borderline rude agent who insisted that I should somehow know that subscribers get worse pricing than non-subscribers. If I did NOT have the unlimited plan, and simply purchased one day of access, it would have been $19.95. Because I commit to pay them on a monthly basis, I am then subject to the 12 cent/minute rate - which was not mentioned in the FAQ or login process at all...

In fact, the only way to find that rate is to first agree to it, then go back to their website and search to find that hotspot location. At that point, the premium fee is listed. You have to agree to it first tho, before you know what it is.

I still don't understand the logic... Monthly subscribers get worse pricing?

Eventually they agreed to refund the $150+ fees but only after discovering that the location search page ALSO said that location had no premium fee, due to a listing error. Note that I had to call a second time to actually have the refund show up on my credit card.

I'm probably going to give iPass a try because of all of this. Boingo seems very disorganized, to the point of being borderline deceptive.

I've had some issues with Boingo. Signed up for the North America unlimited plan. ... They seem very disorganized, to the point of being borderline deceptive.
Yes. Boingo CS is confusing and often confused. It is indeed absurd that if you have the NA unlimited plan the best thing for connecting outside of NA is to have a separate pay-as-you-go account.

If you're at a hotel overseas that uses iBahn as its service provider, you are billed at the North American rate so there is no extra charge even if you have the $9.95 plan. Many Marriott, some Hilton and some Holiday Inn properties use iBahn. If you look up a specific hotel via the Boingo locator you can see if the North American rate applies or if the premium ($0.12 per minute) surcharge applies. I stayed at two Marriott properties in Germany recently which had wired and wireless access via iBahn so there were no surcharges with my North American plan! Worth considering when choosing where to stay.

If you're at a hotel overseas that uses iBahn as its service provider, you are billed at the North American rate so there is no extra charge even if you have the $9.95 plan. Many Marriott, some Hilton and some Holiday Inn properties use iBahn. If you look up a specific hotel via the Boingo locator you can see if the North American rate applies or if the premium ($0.12 per minute) surcharge applies. I stayed at two Marriott properties in Germany recently which had wired and wireless access via iBahn so there were no surcharges with my North American plan! Worth considering when choosing where to stay.
Good tip. And I also noticed that boingo has redesigned their website and made it much clearer what charges apply on the different plans.

Keep in mind, though, that their website is not always correct. In my case, eventually we found the location on their search engine and it STILL said free, even though it was a premium charge. One person I talked to at CS said the international hotel partnership is ending and they haven't fully updated the locator yet... what a mess.

Deleted

Yes. Boingo CS is confusing and often confused. It is indeed absurd that if you have the NA unlimited plan the best thing for connecting outside of NA is to have a separate pay-as-you-go account.

What I've done is to turn on the global plan for the days I'll be abroad and then turn it off when I get back and return to the NA unlimited plan. It works out to less than $2/day for the global access this way.

Cheers.

Can you explain, please, how you "turn on the global plan" and then return to the $9.95 domestic plan when you return to the US? I was just in Brussels and the Ibahn service at the Marriott changed from free to premium (website not updated initially) since the last time I was there - got a bill for $700. As you can imagine I am very interested in finding out how you do this!

Can you explain, please, how you "turn on the global plan" and then return to the $9.95 domestic plan when you return to the US? I was just in Brussels and the Ibahn service at the Marriott changed from free to premium (website not updated initially) since the last time I was there - got a bill for $700. As you can imagine I am very interested in finding out how you do this!

I have a $9.95 unlimited-domestic-for-life plan. When I'm going abroad I call Boingo and ask them to change my plan to Global. When I return I call and ask them to change it back to my $9.95 unlimited-domestic-for-life. During the time that I'm in "Global" mode, I am charged based on $59-$9.95 monthly, prorated daily. So, it's about $2 per day.

I hadn't even realized that some of the international sites are considered "free" for the domestic plan and assumed that they were all premium.

The premium charges if one has a domestic plan are $0.12/minute. A $700 bill means you were using the internet for over 97 hours! Did you do anything else in Brussels? :)

Cheers.

I was just in Brussels and the Ibahn service at the Marriott changed from free to premium (website not updated initially) since the last time I was there - got a bill for $700.
The CS rep told me they have a policy of refunding charges accrued when the website mistakenly says the location should be free. So if the locator still says it's included, you should consider calling and asking for a refund.

I wonder if iPass has an option to temporarily switch to their global plan, like Boingo does?

I was just in Brussels and the Ibahn service at the Marriott changed from free to premium (website not updated initially) since the last time I was there - got a bill for $700. As you can imagine I am very interested in finding out how you do this!
Website still says it is free:
http://boingo.jiwire.com/wi-fi-wireless-hotspot-Brussels-Brabant-BE-Marriott-Brussels-1220096.htm

As MDtR-Chicago suggests, you should be able to get a refund.
It's not as though Boingo is really out $700 on this.

BRP - Thanks a lot for explaining. I will try this next time. And yes ... your calculation is unfortunately correct. I was there on business - and I really did work the entire time!

soitgoes - thanks for that link. You helped restore my sanity. I was pretty sure I had checked before leaving the US and seen that it was not a premium site but was beginning to doubt myself.

MDtR-Chicago and soitgoes - I appreciate your advice to call and ask for a refund. I will do so and post the results.

Spoke with CS rep today who was very pleasant. When she looked into my account she said "OMG - you have some serious charges!" However, she said she could not help at her level and advised me to contact by fax the corporate office. I included screenshots, dated today, which show that hte hotspots I used are not premium. Now waiting to see the response.

http://www.skype.com/intl/en/allfeatures/skypeaccess/

How Skype Access works
When you’re on the move and need to check your email or get access to the web, Skype Access provided by Boingo* is the easy and great value way to connect.

Simply select any available public access WiFi network (the stronger the signal the better). Skype will automatically pop-up a message if you can connect to this network using your Skype Credit balance.

If you get the pop-up you’re one step from getting web access. And the best part is you pay-per-minute – no longer do you have to pay for all-day access even though you’re only in an airport for a few hours.

You’ll need our latest beta version of Skype for Mac OS X to use Skype Access. It’s currently only available for people with a Mac – but we’re working on a solution for PC too.

http://www.skype.com/intl/en/allfeatures/skypeaccess/

How Skype Access works
When you’re on the move and need to check your email or get access to the web, Skype Access provided by Boingo* is the easy and great value way to connect.
At 19¢/min, that's sort of pricey.

Well it appears the iBahn hotspots in Europe that Boingo used to include in the North American unlimited plan for free are now "premium" locations and many are at 18 cents a minute. That's 50% higher than premium locations once were. If my arithmetic is correct, 18 cents a minutes equals $10.80 an hour! Boingo certainly isn't as valuable as it once was.

Well it appears the iBahn hotspots in Europe that Boingo used to include in the North American unlimited plan for free are now "premium" locations and many are at 18 cents a minute. That's 50% higher than premium locations once were. If my arithmetic is correct, 18 cents a minutes equals $10.80 an hour! Boingo certainly isn't as valuable as it once was.

If you change to the Global plan for the days that you're in Europe, it's less than $2/day additional. Just got back from Germany and our hotel had Boingo. at one point, their usage page says I was logged in for 3:31. It will still cost less than $2/day. Definitely worth it, IMO.

Cheers.

Initially I reported that my Boingo costs while working in Brussels were $700. By the time all the transactions posted to my credit card (my husband was also there and working - and his Boingo charges are also billed to my credit card) the total was $2700!!
After my initial contact with customer service I did as requested and faxed the details of the problem to Boingo corporate. I included a dated screenshot showing that the hotel was listed as free not premium. No response. I faxed again. No response. So I had my assistant begin to call (politely) on a daily basis. They began to recognize her when she called! Yesterday they stated in an email that all the charges had been refunded and my credit card would be credited. Hasn't posted yet ... but I will give them a few days. I am holding on to that email!
I checked the Boingo website - hotel is now listed as premium at 18 cents/minute.

Really sad that "customer service" was so unresponsive to your faxes, especially since it was Boingo's error that led to the exhorbitant charges in the first place.

How does one get the $9.95 for life? I was told explicitly that this was an introductory offer for 3 months, but that I could phone in the middle of the last month and have the offer extended for another three months otherwise it would revert to $19.95. Is there a way to avoid phoning them every trimester?

How does one get the $9.95 for life? I was told explicitly that this was an introductory offer for 3 months, but that I could phone in the middle of the last month and have the offer extended for another three months otherwise it would revert to $19.95. Is there a way to avoid phoning them every trimester?

Here is the link to unlimited $9.95 for life in Americas https://signup.boingo.com/signup/SignupStart.app?PROMO=UNL01090USD0&SCC=BOIBDC001&PLANTYPE=UNLIMITED

Here is the link to unlimited $9.95 for life in Americas https://signup.boingo.com/signup/SignupStart.app?PROMO=UNL01090USD0&SCC=BOIBDC001&PLANTYPE=UNLIMITED

That link works, else you can just go to the home page (www.boingo.com) and cllick on the Sign Up link. No special coupon or promo code is required anymore.

Anyone ever tried to switch to the global plan retroactively?

I just spent 2 days using a hotspot during meetings and I see on the website now that it's an 18 cent per minute location...had I known that I would have just bought two orange day passes at 9.90 EUR. I opened my laptop and up popped the boingo login screen, I didn't notice any mention of premium charges (perhaps I missed it, I don't know...I noticed it immediately at my hotel that I'm in now though). I foolishly assumed that it was just part of the subscription.

I'm looking at perhaps $200 in fees which will be hard to explain on my expense report. I wouldn't mind paying for the entire month on the global plan, but I don't know if they'll allow me to switch my plan for the whole month?

I guess I'll have to try next week when I'm back in the US.

I guess I'll have to try next week when I'm back in the US.
Don't wait. The sooner you try to correct this, the more likely you will succeed.

I ended up calling them from the Netherlands and no luck on getting my previous couple of days charges covered. I guess the only good news is that they bill premium charges day by day so I have a few smaller charges rather than one big lump sum, less likely to be notice on my expense reports (should be ok either way, but it's always nice not to have to explain a screwup to your boss ;))

If Boingo will prorate the monthly fee, how does this work with the limit on minutes? There's a 2000 limit per month, if I switch back to the North American plan after a couple of days is it a problem that I used ~400 minutes during that time?

May I ask about recent quality in Europe? I am seeing challenges at some locations, ones which I use quite regularly, and have narrowed it down to those using Swisscom. Sometimes I have to reconnect every 2-3 minutes, and often download the program again.

Other locations can be spotty, others work very well. But I am curious to hear any other reports, and I encourage users to report service issues. The CS reps always ask when I switch back and forth how I find the non-US service, and the more we report issues I am certain the fewer issues in the long run.

I have had times when I reported issues at a particular location and service did improve markedly.

I used service with Orange France and Ibahn (in the Netherlands) and both were ok.

One interesting note - I called today to switch back to the Boingo Unlimited plan and the agent told me this plan covers all of the Americas including central and South America. I was a bit surprised to hear that, it doesn't say so on their website when describing the plans but if so thats a nice benefit.

Orange and iBahn tend to work well for me too.

Swisscom (which is not only in Switzerland) has not worked well in France and Italy in various locations.

Could someone explain the difference between Boingo Unlimited and Boingo Mobile? Is the latter for phones only and the former for laptops + phones?

If that is correct, Unlimited is only $2 more per month, so I don't see the benefit of Mobile.

Could someone explain the difference between Boingo Unlimited and Boingo Mobile? Is the latter for phones only and the former for laptops + phones?

If that is correct, Unlimited is only $2 more per month, so I don't see the benefit of Mobile.

Yes, Mobile is just for smartphones. However, it is also valid at many international locations.

calling to cancel... phone wait is taking forever

Could someone explain the difference between Boingo Unlimited and Boingo Mobile? Is the latter for phones only and the former for laptops + phones?

If that is correct, Unlimited is only $2 more per month, so I don't see the benefit of Mobile.

Yes, Mobile is just for smartphones. However, it is also valid at many international locations.

I called Boingo yesterday to get information and was told that Boingo Unlimited is only for computers and Mobile just for smartphones (as soitgoes stated). However, they expect to have a new bundle for both computer and phone in the next few weeks.

I called Boingo yesterday to get information and was told that Boingo Unlimited is only for computers and Mobile just for smartphones (as soitgoes stated). However, they expect to have a new bundle for both computer and phone in the next few weeks.

You can use Unlimited on mobile phone devices, you just can't use the Boingo Mobile smartphone applications with an Unlimited account (you authenticate through the web browser).

You can use Unlimited on mobile phone devices, you just can't use the Boingo Mobile smartphone applications with an Unlimited account (you authenticate through the web browser).

OK, now I understand. I assume the new package will allow the use of phone apps.

Could someone explain the difference between Boingo Unlimited and Boingo Mobile? Is the latter for phones only and the former for laptops + phones?

If that is correct, Unlimited is only $2 more per month, so I don't see the benefit of Mobile.

Yes, Mobile is just for smartphones. However, it is also valid at many international locations.

I called Boingo yesterday to get information and was told that Boingo Unlimited is only for computers and Mobile just for smartphones (as soitgoes stated). However, they expect to have a new bundle for both computer and phone in the next few weeks.

You can use Unlimited on mobile phone devices, you just can't use the Boingo Mobile smartphone applications with an Unlimited account (you authenticate through the web browser).

Although not explicitly stated, some of the discussion above seems to imply that a single Boingo Unlimited plan could be used both on a laptop and on a smartphone. This may be possible, but I believe it is against the terms and conditions of the license agreement with Boingo. When I signed up, I read the agreement and I recall that it stated that the the Boingo Unlimited plan can only (legally) be used by one person on one computer.

Although not explicitly stated, some of the discussion above seems to imply that a single Boingo Unlimited plan could be used both on a laptop and on a smartphone. This may be possible, but I believe it is against the terms and conditions of the license agreement with Boingo. When I signed up, I read the agreement and I recall that it stated that the the Boingo Unlimited plan can only (legally) be used by one person on one computer.

Only one concurrent connection is allowed, but you can use it--at different times--on a smartphone and a laptop.

Only one concurrent connection is allowed, but you can use it--at different times--on a smartphone and a laptop.

Interesting. I did not ask explicitly about the non-concurrent use but both the initial agent and the "expert" she connected me to stated that Unlimited was for laptops only. As of earlier today, there is no bundled option that the expert told me would be offered soon.

Just to clarify, I can sign up for unlimited and use it on both my laptop and my mobile, as long as they are not concurrently connected. Correct?

Edit: I just read the post by PDX-RDM-AVL-TPA more carefully and noted the word "legally".

Has anyone tried using Boingo roaming at the Admiral's Club anywhere?

This used to work, but now Boingo is no longer listed as a roaming option on the login page at DFW (see screenshot http://www.flickr.com/photos/surfman49/3942589936/sizes/o/). Interestingly, the service DOES work inside the regular terminals at DFW.

I have contacted Boingo customer service by email a few times, but they keep saying that T-Mobile's problem and that T-Mobile decides which partners to list on the page.

I suspect this is actually Boingo's fault because AT&T wifi IS listed as a roaming parnter. But, Boingo's absence seems very convenient for Boingo, T-Mobile, and the Admiral's club. So far I have paid for 3 $7 day passes, but I'm not planning on keeping that up forever after paying $9.99 a month for a service that is supposed to include roaming.

As the Admiral's Club is one of the main places that I connect, I am considering changing to AT&T's $19.99 per month option https://secure3.sbc.com/monthly_signup.adp?sId=&. Does anyone know if the AT&T service includes international roaming?

Before signing up for Boingo Mobile, I called customer service to ask about premium service fees, particularly in France. The first agent told me that $7.95 per month is unlimited wifi access and does not incur any premium service fees. He said that premium service applied only to laptop service.

After reading the customer service agreement for Boingo Mobile, I called back and asked about this statement in the agreement:

2. LOCATIONS AND FEES. Access points or enabled venues may not be available in all areas. The Services may entail different fees at different locations; some locations are not included in Boingo's on-going subscription accounts or other flat-rate plans. Current prices for Boingo's Services and the locations where such Services are available are posted on the Boingo mobile services website. Boingo reserves the right to change prices and locations, and institute new fees at any time. You must contact Boingo if you are unsure of the fees charged at a particular location where the Services are available. You are responsible for determining the fees prior to using the Services each time.

The second agent told me that some sites do have premium service charges. When I relayed the information given to me by the first agent, this agent put me on hold, then returned to say that the first agent was correct - no premium service fees on Mobile. He could not explain the statement in the Customer service agreement.

I have sent an email to Boingo asking for clarification in writing.

Am I misinterpreting something?

Before signing up for Boingo Mobile, I called customer service to ask about premium service fees, particularly in France. The first agent told me that $7.95 per month is unlimited wifi access and does not incur any premium service fees. He said that premium service applied only to laptop service.

After reading the customer service agreement for Boingo Mobile, I called back and asked about this statement in the agreement:

The second agent told me that some sites do have premium service charges. When I relayed the information given to me by the first agent, this agent put me on hold, then returned to say that the first agent was correct - no premium service fees on Mobile. He could not explain the statement in the Customer service agreement.

I have sent an email to Boingo asking for clarification in writing.

Am I misinterpreting something?

My understanding: if the Boingo Mobile client (mandatory for Mobile) lets you connect, you are covered with no additional fees.

As the Admiral's Club is one of the main places that I connect, I am considering changing to AT&T's $19.99 per month option https://secure3.sbc.com/monthly_signup.adp?sId=&. Does anyone know if the AT&T service includes international roaming?

EDIT: Actually, yeah - according to their website, premier is $19.99, which included international. But 1-year contract required.

I use the basic plan now which is actually included for free if you sign up for AT&T high speed internet service.

The $19.99 plan is only for basic. International requires the premium service.

I use the basic plan now which is actually included for free if you sign up for AT&T high speed internet service.
And premium is $10/month for AT&T customers. Check the AT&T Wifi web site (http://www.att.com/gen/general?pid=5949) for coverage. It's not bad. Some frustrations, like T-Mobile international doesn't have an AT&T option, but domestic T-Mobile does. I'm told Premium also works at iPass locations, which is a pretty big chunk 'o Wifi, but I haven't tried that.

My understanding: if the Boingo Mobile client (mandatory for Mobile) lets you connect, you are covered with no additional fees.

That would be very helpful and answers my next question: how does one know if the premium fees apply? Will see if Boingo replies to my email requesting confirmation. I must say that I have not been very impressed with the customer service agents. Perhaps I need to ask for a supervisor.

And premium is $10/month for AT&T customers. Check the AT&T Wifi web site (http://www.att.com/gen/general?pid=5949) for coverage. It's not bad. Some frustrations, like T-Mobile international doesn't have an AT&T option, but domestic T-Mobile does. I'm told Premium also works at iPass locations, which is a pretty big chunk 'o Wifi, but I haven't tried that.

I can't find that offer on their website - do you have a link to it?

I can't find that offer on their website - do you have a link to it?No, I believe I signed up for it through my AT&T residential account. I remember that it wasn't easy to find or purchase, but I just checked my AT&T bill and confirmed the details (premium Wifi = $10). I tried to look at "my services" but the site is currently under maintenance.

That would be very helpful and answers my next question: how does one know if the premium fees apply? Will see if Boingo replies to my email requesting confirmation. I must say that I have not been very impressed with the customer service agents. Perhaps I need to ask for a supervisor.
Boingo Unlimited ($9.95/mo) is unlimited wifi connected using your LAPTOP at any Boingo OR partner hotspot in North America, which apparently has now been expanded to all of the Americas. Additional charges are incurred when you connect to wifi at any Boingo or partner hotspot in another continent or country; i.e. Europe or Asia. From Boingo's website, found here: https://c01.client.boingo.com/signup/SignupStart.app?PROMO=UNL01090USD0&SCC=BOIBDC001&PLANTYPE=UNLIMITED

BOINGO UNLIMITED
Enjoy unlimited Wi-Fi access at thousands of Boingo hotspots throughout the Americas for only $9.95 USD each month. Please note, charges recur each month, but Boingo is flexible, so you can change your plan at any time without penalty. Wi-Fi connections made outside the Americas will be billed an additional $0.12 or $0.18 per minute, depending on location.
_________________________________

BOINGO MOBILE ($7.95/mo) is unlimited wifi using your MOBILE DEVICE (iPod, PDA, Palm Treo, etc.) at ANY Boingo OR partner hotspot WORLDWIDE. If you are using your mobile device and you subscribe to the Boingo Mobile plan, you will not incur ANY additional connection charges as long as you're using a Boingo or partner hotspot. Boingo Mobile authenticates your connection is via a mobile device through its proprietary software on your device. A full list of compatible mobile devices can be found here: http://mobile.boingo.com/support/supported_devices.php

And details about the Boingo Mobile rate plan can be found here: http://mobile.boingo.com/benefits/

I travel internationally, and I'm a Sprint customer so I'm typically out of luck for international phone service. I have found the most logical and economical way to be able to call home while overseas is to use my Boingo Mobile service coupled with Skype (Unlimited US & Canada plan, @ $30/yr) on my Windows Moble phone. It works perfectly for me.

.......
BOINGO MOBILE ($7.95/mo) is unlimited wifi using your MOBILE DEVICE (iPod, PDA, Palm Treo, etc.) at ANY Boingo OR partner hotspot WORLDWIDE. If you are using your mobile device and you subscribe to the Boingo Mobile plan, you will not incur ANY additional connection charges as long as you're using a Boingo or partner hotspot. Boingo Mobile authenticates your connection is via a mobile device through its proprietary software on your device. A full list of compatible mobile devices can be found here: http://mobile.boingo.com/support/supported_devices.php

And details about the Boingo Mobile rate plan can be found here: http://mobile.boingo.com/benefits/

I travel internationally, and I'm a Sprint customer so I'm typically out of luck for international phone service. I have found the most logical and economical way to be able to call home while overseas is to use my Boingo Mobile service coupled with Skype (Unlimited US & Canada plan, @ $30/yr) on my Windows Moble phone. It works perfectly for me.

Thanks, that's good to know. I will go ahead and sign up. Nevertheless, the customer service agreement (for Boingo Mobile specifically) states that additional charges may apply and that it's the customer's responsibility to determine the rates. Perhaps that is just a lawyer-added statement to try to cover all possibilities. It is frustrating not to be able to get an informed answer from Boingo.

Before signing up for Boingo Mobile, I called customer service to ask about premium service fees, particularly in France. The first agent told me that $7.95 per month is unlimited wifi access and does not incur any premium service fees. He said that premium service applied only to laptop service.

After reading the customer service agreement for Boingo Mobile, I called back and asked about this statement in the agreement:



The second agent told me that some sites do have premium service charges. When I relayed the information given to me by the first agent, this agent put me on hold, then returned to say that the first agent was correct - no premium service fees on Mobile. He could not explain the statement in the Customer service agreement.

I have sent an email to Boingo asking for clarification in writing.

Am I misinterpreting something?

Received this email in response to my question about premium service charges.

The Boingo Mobile service is $7.95 per month with no roaming fees.

If you have any further questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to
contact our Customer Care team at 800-826-4646. We're available Mon thru
Friday, from 4am to 10pm PST.

XXXXXX
Online Customer Care
Boingo Wireless

Assuming that roaming fees = premium service charges, I will expect no additional charges.

Assuming that roaming fees = premium service charges, I will expect no additional charges.


That has always been both my understanding AND my experience. Since I subscribed last June I've successfully used my Boingo Mobile for unlimited wifi access in Berlin, Amsterdam, and Buenos Aires in addition to airports and other hotspots in the USA.

Considering the Boingo Mobile subscription is $8/month, and I would have been charged EUR 12 (@ 18 USD) per DAY for the wifi at my hotel in Berlin, I consider it an essential no-brainer.