GoGo WiFi Expands

GoGo WiFi is expanding with “Gogo Text & Talk App.” The company provides in-flight broadband Internet and connectivity services for airlines. Gogo announced the launch of its new app, Gogo Text & Talk to roll out for commercial jets in 2014. Gogo Text & Talk is presently in beta. GoGo is seeking to rebrand while at the same time correct any bugs or issues with the new app. Android users will be able to install the app much like a texting app.

GoGo Text & Talk will be able to request permission from Android users to open phone contacts and exchange text messages while the user is up in the air.  Gogo's connection speed is an estimate of 500–600 Kibibits per second for internet downloads. Connection speed for uploads is estimated at 300 Kibits. Users connect to the service in flight.

Text engagement draws more Android device users in by in-flight messaging that is directly to them in real-time. The communication objectives are met by allowing GoGo’s service to connect to users devices by localized messaging. Consumers can then experience relevant content that directly impacts them in real-time.

The Gogo app is free at Google Play. Android users can sign-in to WiFi while on flight. The app features automatic detection of gogoinflight signal. The company newly added Android support for version 4.0 1.1 1. GoGo is also working on launching the app to be available for Android tablet users very soon.

Google Play

GoGo will also be providing Japan Airlines its service. The recent announcement will take in effect by mid-2014. The company aims to provide a better internet connection experience to passengers and increase its global carriers. GoGo is the biggest in-flight connectivity provider. GoGo currently owns 80 percent of the WiFi-equipped aircraft market.

The recent advancements of technologies in the market has WiFi more prominent in consumer electronic devices. Devices such as Android smartphones and tablets with WiFi capabilities have significantly increased.

According to a recent Research and Markets report, “By 2016, 45% of designated Wi-Fi access points are estimated to be for outdoor purposes along with the deployment of Next Generation Hotspots.” The demand uninterrupted data internet connectivity from Android and other device users has made in flight WiFi a necessity.

GoGo currently has over 2,000 commercial and 6,000 business airlines using its services. Now Android users gave a convenient app with all in one features such as  in-flight phone calling and text messaging. The company went public earlier this year with an IPO offering of 11 million shares of common stock priced at $17 per share.

What are your thoughts? Be on the lookout for more of GoGo WiFi to play an increased role in everyday travel.