Broadband wireless (Wi-Fi) hotspot coverage is to get a boost following a link up between T-Mobile and BT Group, with the aim being to triple hotspot locations.

In a move designed in part to combat its low-cost, consumer-focused image, the Deutsche Telekom arm said on Thursday it had tied up with BT Openzone to give customers access to 1,900 Wi-Fi local wireless network access points, known as hotspots.

Wi-Fi, medium-range wireless networks often rolled out in coffee shops and airport lounges, allows users of laptop computers and other gadgets to access fast Internet connections without the usual struggle with wires and mismatched phone plugs.

T-Mobile UK and BT's partnership is part of a trend to open up hotspot networks. U.S.-based Boingo aggregates hotspots run by different operators, while Airpath and Deutsche Telekom-owned T-Systems provide roaming services between unconnected networks.