Cablevision’s WiFi-only Freewheel service is unlimited

Cablevision Systems Corp. recently announced the upcoming launch of Freewheel, a new low-cost all-WiFi phone service providing unlimited data, talk and text.

Harnessing the rapid growth and unparalleled capabilities of WiFi, Freewheel is the first all-WiFi service to be introduced by a cable provider. It will be offered with the Motorola Moto G smartphone, an Android device recently rated the “best low-cost smartphone” by national business media. The service will work anywhere in the world where WiFi is accessible, and will operate only when the device is connected to a WiFi signal. Freewheel customers will have automatic access to the Optimum WiFi network of 1.1 million hotspots.

Freewheel will be available for purchase nationwide starting next month at Freewheel.com. The service will cost $29.95 per month or $9.95 per month for Cablevision’s Optimum Online customers, which is up to 80 percent less expensive than leading cellular offerings, Cablevision said in a news release. The service comes with no annual contract.

The Moto G will be offered at a discount of $99.95.

“Cablevision recognizes the growing shift to WiFi-driven consumer electronic devices and services,” Cablevision CEO James L. Dolan said in a news release. “As a company, we are focused on providing services for these consumers and solidifying our position as the New York market’s premier connectivity company. Freewheel is the next leap forward in the advancement of the connected lifestyle, and our Optimum WiFi network and the prevalence of WiFi nationwide serves as its foundation.”

Cablevision has made a significant investment in building its robust WiFi network, which the company began deploying in 2007 just as smartphones were introduced. Today, Optimum WiFi is available at 1.1 million access points and includes both indoor and outdoor locations, as well as its expanding network of residential hotspots. This network covers the New York metropolitan area, Cablevision’s home operating territory and where Freewheel will be heavily marketed.

Freewheel allows consumers to take maximum advantage of WiFi connectivity as it becomes more ubiquitous and provides automatic access to the Optimum WiFi network.

“There has been a dramatic shift in how consumers use their mobile devices; today, it’s all about data, and WiFi is now preferred and clearly superior to cellular,” Cablevision COO Kristin Dolan said in a news release. “Freewheel is powered by the strength of our Optimum WiFi network integrated with a high-quality device to deliver a breakthrough service for truly unlimited data, talk and text without the high costs imposed by cellular providers.”