Chunghwa Telecom (CHT) will expand its Wi-Fi network from 1,300-1,500 access points (APs) currently to 5,000 around Taiwan at the end of 2010, according to the company.

In order to decrease the burden on its 3G network, CHT will encourage mobile users to use indoor Wi-Fi hot spots where possible, which is the reason behind the planned expansion.

CHT's existing APs are mainly located in chain retail stores including McDonald's, Starbucks and 7-Eleven, and it is negotiating with President Chain Store, the Taiwan operator of 7-Eleven, to set up additional APs at 3,500-3,700 7-Eleven stores, CHT pointed out.