As part of a plan to build ten Chinese urban areas into wireless cities, Beijing has opened six district wireless networks expanding coverage to much of the capital. By the end of 2011, people in these places will get access to free high-speed Wi-Fi services through mobile phones, laptops or tablets by logging on to the wireless network named "My Beijing”.

As Li Siting waits for her friend, she uses a smartphone-specific application to chat online with others. She accesses the internet via a public WIFI connection. She has instant access to strong bandwidth without spending a penny.

Li Siting said,“The speed is faster, and what is more important, it’s free to access the internet.”

The “My Beijing” wireless network was set up by the municipal government. Although it’s already been in operation in the six regions for some time, few people know where the connections exist.

“I think a sign should be set up explaining where free WIFI exists.”“The operator should send a reminder text message to inform the public, so that more people can enjoy the free WIFI.”

In times past, people could only access WIFI connections in shopping malls, bars or other such indoor establishments. Now, even outdoor areas within the fifth ring road will have access to Internet.

Beijing has built over 5,000 WIFI hot spots, and that number is expected to multiply several times by the end of the year. This project is aiming to turn Beijing into a “Wireless City”, enabling Beijingers to utilize the internet in much more efficient ways.

Zhang Jun said, “When I was in Europe half a year ago, I heard about the wireless LAN construction plan in Europe from my children. Now the Beijing government is actively promoting the plan. I think it signifies great progress.”

Wang Xiaoguang said, “If one day we can get access to the internet from every corner of Beijing, the city will indeed be better”

However, since the network of WIFI hotspots called “My Beijing” depends on finances to construct and maintain, the scale is limited. Currently, Beijing has roughly 2-million private WIFI hotspots. With this figure in mind, some experts have offered their thoughts on how these can be combined with the new public service.

To achieve full WIFI coverage we should pay heed to the English saying, "of the people by the people and for the people." In fact, a completely wireless city can be built naturally if one shares his or her own hotspots at home or in the office with the rest of people. This way, the government would not have to spend many resources on it. "

The local government says the next step for extending coverage will be the city’s main train stations and their vicinity. With this in mind, many netizens are hoping they can get their web-fix just about anywhere.