Rumor: Xiaomi to Launch Internet Roaming Service
TechNews, 3/23/15
Chinese Android device maker Xiaomi is planning to upgrade its smartphones to add an internet roaming service function named "Manyou Ka" (literally "Roaming Card"), which will allow users who travel overseas to access internet services via a virtual network service, removing the need to purchase a local SIM card.
Testing is reportedly underway for the service using Xiaomi's MIUI 6 mobile OS, with support for Hong Kong, Taiwan, Japan, South Korea, the US and Canada.
Chinese telecom equipment and terminal manufacturer Huawei launched a similar service, named "Tianjitong" with its "Honor 6 Plus" smartphone. Based on the Huawei Honor WLAN network, it uses Huawei's domestic network of 7 mln Wi-Fi hotspots, and a further 1 mln hotspots worldwide. As well as allowing free Wi-Fi connectivity, Tianjitong also supports the wireless internet standards of operators in 18 countries, including Thailand, the UK and France, as well as Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan. Customers can access local operators' networks without the need of a SIM. There are two tariff options. The first is to pay RMB 5 per 20 MB of data used. The second is to pay RMB 28 per day for unlimited data usage. Tianjitong is currently in its trial stage.
Keywords: international roaming Tianjitong Manyou Ka overseas wireless Huawei Wi-Fi Xiaomi wireless networking
Sending
