One of the biggest problems at SXSW is lack of a good mobile data connection. The carrier networks are overloaded by the sheer density of people using their phones. And the SXSW WiFi is similarly overloaded. This year, there will be a third option. Look for a free wireless service on your phone called We Heart WiFi:
We <3 WiFi "Heartspots" @ SXSW 2013
We will be at SXSW demonstrating the potential of "Super WiFi" on March 8-10.
Each Heartspot is powered by 100% open wireless technologies — connected to a single gigabit fiber backbone via Super WiFi backhaul links.
No cables, just wireless. All using open spectrum.
The Heartspots there to give people fast wifi, and to demonstrate what's possible with open wireless technologies.
One of my favorite things about these heartspots is they are mobile. Since the backhaul from the WiFi access point to the Internet backbone is "Super WiFi", these heartspots can be taken to the places where there is most need for good WiFi.
"Super WiFi" is the unofficial name for the next generation of wireless sharing technologies like WiFi. Unlike your cell phone, WiFi uses open (or 'unlicensed') spectrum available to anyone with a device approved by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for any use. Some years ago, the FCC opened unused television channels (called "TV whitespaces") for the next generation of "Super WiFi" technology on a limited basis. Last week, the FCC finally approved this new technology for nationwide use — making massively improved WiFi possible. However, the spectrum needed to realize this vision is at risk.
Go to this page and learn all about Super WiFi, the challenges facing spectrum reform, and the opportunities that come from more open WiFi. It also explains how you can find We Heart WiFi heartspots while you are in Austin for SXSW.
I am extremely proud that USV is one of the creators of this project and has supported it financially.
