The free wireless broadband internet service will be available at public areas islandwide in Singapore from Dec. 1, a month ahead of schedule.

Singapore's Infocomm Development Authority will also extended the free Wireless@SG program for three years, one year longer than announced previously, Channel NewsAsia said on Thursday.

With this free service, the number of internet users in Singapore is expected to grow to about 250,000 in two years.

The report said to log on to the free service, users need only register at the website of any of the three operators -- iCell Network, QMax Communications or Singtel.

Then users can surf for free online from notebook PC, Personal Digital Assistant (PDA) or mobile phone at downtown areas, major town centers, libraries, country clubs and shopping malls.

There are currently 900 hotspots across the island and this number is set to increase to 5,000 by September next year.

Source: Xinhua