Google may turn NY pay phones into Wi-Fi spots

[NEW YORK] Google is among several technology companies considering a plan that uses pay-phone locations to give New Yorkers free wireless Internet access.

The Mountain View, California-based company was among more than 50 attendees at an informational meeting in May for the project, according to a city document. Bids for the proposal are due today.

The No 1 search provider is stepping up efforts to provide digital access in the US and around the world as it seeks to get more consumers on the Internet, benefiting its own user and ad services. The company, which is working towards rolling out broadband services in several US cities, already provides wireless access in Mountain View and New York's Chelsea neighbourhood, where it has an office.