Wifi4EU makes a network of public-funded Wi-Fi APs exclusive, only for Playstore and Apple store patrons I was wrong!
prerequisites for using public-financed wifi in the EU:...
Is this a new requirement? I spent several months in the EU in 2022 and 2023 and never had to download an app to connect to the Wifi4EU networks.
I’m uncertain. The EU’s words 3 weeks ago were:
“Now, with the #WiFi4EU app, enjoy free, high-speed WiFi in public spaces across Europe.”
That seems to imply that it is. A few replies seem to suggest opposition to a smartphone app requirement:
https://freesoftwareextremist.com/objects/0f42d401-7c57-4f78-a73c-c42278ffb0ed https://piaille.fr/@aaribaud/113260758404320106 https://sns.neonka.info/@nk/113261087148349618 https://westergaard.social/objects/8d4873c1-e674-4403-9f0a-b0adb5dd4246
But this post comes from someone who apparently believes the app is purely for finding the hotspots, not using them:
https://wetdry.world/@cyrus/113264605839060934
If you find something solid let me know. I’ll correct the post if needed. The branch started by @aaribaud seems to have the most insight, implying that the EU is distrusting WPA and using an app to do TLS.
(update) I think you are right. I just heard from someone saying it’s a regular hotspot with captive portal. Still not good but not as bad as an app mandate (like we see with eduroam).
