After verifying more than 70 thousand wireless Internet access points worldwide, Intel Corp. is working with Connexion by Boeing, a provide of in-flight Internet access, to ensure that Intel Centrino based laptops work properly with hotspots located on the airplanes. In addition, both companies will also co-promote the service.

As part of the agreement, the companies have successfully completed compatibility testing with common Intel Centrino mobile platform-based laptop configurations, making Connexion by Boeing the first in-flight Internet service to be verified through Intel’s Wireless Verification Program. Connexion by Boeing and Intel will also work with customer airlines to increase awareness, trial and adoption of in-flight Internet access through co-branding, promotions and educational efforts targeted at both business and leisure travelers.

Connexion by Boeing service is available today on 70 planes and more than 100 daily routes worldwide on Lufthansa Airlines, Scandinavian Airlines, Japan Airlines, ANA, Singapore Airlines and China Airlines. In addition, Austrian Airlines, Korean Air, El Al, Asiana and Etihad will soon begin offering the high-speed service on their long-range aircraft. The cost per flight for most international routes is $29.95, with a lower rate of $19.95 for flights of less than six hours. A pay-per-minute option includes a 60-minute starter package priced at $9.95, with rates of $0.25 per minute thereafter.

Through the Wireless Verification Program, Intel works with wireless service providers to identify and minimize issues related to quality of service, site coverage and down-time that may negatively impact the end-user experience. To date, the program has verified 103 service providers that operate more than 70 000 hotspots worldwide.

“Intel and Connexion by Boeing have collaborated extensively to test the high-speed, in-flight Wi-Fi service, which provides a secure and reliable service for travelers who want new choices for how they spend their time in-flight. With our shared focus on enhancing the end-user experience, Intel and Connexion by Boeing are opening up a whole new world of in-flight entertainment, communication and productivity,” said Keith Kressin, director of marketing for Intel's Mobile Platforms Group.