Google grabs ICOA WiFi hotspot specialist [Update: Or maybe not]
![Google grabs ICOA WiFi hotspot specialist [Update: Or maybe not]](https://www.slashgear.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/google_nexus_4_wifi-695x420.jpg)
Google has snapped up ICOA Inc., a WiFi and wired broadband hotspot specialist providing internet access at airports and other public locations, in what could be another play to bypass traditional carriers. The deal, worth $400m, sees Google acquire more than 1,500 hotspot points across 45 US states, in addition to existing partnerships with other providers including Boingo Wireless and iPass.
Update: Sources close to the situation now tell us that, in fact, the acquisition did not go ahead, and that has been confirmed by ICOA's chairman. It's unclear why the press release was published, and there's no official comment from Google at this time.