For a while, AT&T has been offering subscribers to its mobile broadband service access to its massive network of Wi-Fi hotspots at no additional charge. AT&T even went so far as to make the Wi-Fi offer available to smartphone users as well. The goal is to offload some of the traffic from the AT&T 3G network that is overwhelmed in many areas by data requests from smartphones and computers with the iPhone cited as one of the main bandwidth consuming devices.

Verizon Wireless has announced this week that it is now offering some customers free access to its network of Wi-Fi hotspots in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. The access is available to subscribers on the Verizon Mobile Broadband or GlobalAccess data plans. The real fly in the ointment here is that Verizon is not offering the free hotspot service to smartphone users.

Verizon issued a statement saying, "When they are ready to move, but want to remain connected, or if they want the added security of the Verizon Wireless network, customers can simply switch back to Verizon Wireless’ 3G wireless network. These choices can help them manage their monthly data allowance by potentially preventing overage charges and saving the allowance for when mobility is needed."

Some of the devices that will support the new free Wi-Fi service include USB broadband modems, PC Cards, ExpressCards, MiFi 2200 devices, and computers with built-in Verizon modems running Windows 7, Vista, or XP. Verizon's VZ Access Manager 7.2 or higher software is required.