SBC Communications Inc is to make its FreedomLink wireless broadband service available in 6,000 McDonald's restaurants in the US by the end of next Summer.

The addition of thousands of burger bars to its existing network of Wi-Fi hotspots is on top of those already dotted around the place in airports, hotels and other restaurants.

SBC signed the deal with Wi-Fi provider Wayport Inc, which was chosen by Ronald McDonald back in April to provide Wi-Fi access in his US outlets.

Said Ray Wilkins, president of marketing and sales at SBC: "McDonald's strong brand, convenient locations and commitment to Wi-Fi make their restaurants an ideal fit for our FreedomLink service.

"The agreement will help us create the industry's most extensive Wi-Fi footprint, and illustrates how Wi-Fi provides us with a range of revenue-generating opportunities, including revenue from transport services such as DSL."

A monthly subscription to SBC's FreedomLink costs $19.95 (£10.80) and provides unlimited access to all of its hotspots. ®

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