Microsoft is so keen to migrate mobile surfers to its ‘decision engine’ that it’s bribing them with free Wi-Fi minutes. A partnership with wireless advertising specialist JiWire means that travellers using ‘premium hotspots’ in thousands of airports and fancy hotels across America can earn a free Wi-Fi session just by completing a search on Bing.

A single search gives at least 20 minutes’ access, with some providers giving up to a couple of hours. No registration is required. The campaign, which started in September, is based on the idea that once people experience Bing they will come back and use the engine again. Initial results at the free hotspots suggest that Microsoft might be on to something, with many users returning for multiple Bing searches – even if it didn’t top up their surfing time. The campaign is slated to continue until at least the end of the year.

Via stuff.tv