RE:RE:RE:RE:RE:ITS MICROSOFT! Yes, and no.
Please read this link again @ https://guardianlv.com/2015/06/microsoft-corporations-wifi-to-transform-services-with-10m-hotspots-in-130-nations/
MS seems to offer native app downloads for different platforms. If this part is not there, you are 100% correct that a router will do. If this part is there, it's handy to save development costs by leveraging the API.
>
>The Microsoft WiFi app download links for Windows Phone, Android, Mac, iOS, and Windows were
> also available on the web page. The description of Microsoft WiFi was mentioned as a service that
> will enable users to be ‘productive on the go’ by offering ‘hassle-free internet service across the
> world.’
>