iPhone and iPod touch: Understanding subscription Wi-Fi networks

  • Last Modified: November 03, 2009
  • Article: HT3867

Summary

Subscription Wi-Fi networks are public Wi-Fi networks requiring a subscription or payment to use. Subscription Wi-Fi networks are often found at coffee shops, Internet cafes, airports, and other public locations that don't offer free Wi-Fi networks. In some countries, they are sponsored and maintained by wireless carriers. (For example, AT&T wireless hotspots in Starbucks locations).

When using iPhone OS 3.0 or later, your iPhone or iPod touch can remember the Wi-Fi networks to which you subscribe. It will automatically connect and log in to the Wi-Fi network when you are in range.

Note: The features and troubleshooting steps above may not be applicable to devices sold in certain countries including China. Please see iPhone or iPod touch technical specifications and this article for more information.

Products Affected

iPhone, iPod touch

Joining a Subscription Wi-Fi Network

  1. When you are in a location that offers a subscription Wi-Fi network, locate and join the network on your device.
  2. A login screen should appear on the device. If it does not, open Safari and try to load a webpage.
    Note: Some subscription Wi-Fi networks will not display the login screen. If the screen does not appear, check the webpage that loads in Safari for instructions.
  3. On the login screen, select the appropriate option to log in to the subscription Wi-Fi service. Options vary depending on the subscription Wi-Fi provider. Here's an example:
    [Log In Screenshot]
  4. After completing the login process, you can access the Internet.

Fees and other charges may apply when using subscription Wi-Fi networks. Contact the network provider for more information.

Wi-Fi Auto-Join

Your device remembers the network and login information so you can automatically reconnect to that subscription Wi-Fi network whenever you are in range.

If you don't want your device to automatically join the subscription Wi-Fi network, you can disable the Auto-Join behavior in by tapping the chevron next to the subscription Wi-Fi network name:

[Wi-Fi Networks Screenshot]

Important: If you exit the login screen without completing the login process, Auto-Join for that network is automatically disabled. If your device does not automatically join a subscription Wi-Fi network as expected, check to ensure the Auto-Join setting is enabled. Some subscription Wi-Fi networks may not support Auto-Join, and require you to log in to the network each time.

Important: Information about products not manufactured by Apple is provided for information purposes only and does not constitute Apple’s recommendation or endorsement. Please contact the vendor for additional information.

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