Apple Watch Can Use Known Wi-Fi Networks for Limited Functions Even When iPhone Is Off

[Rocketman]

The only issue in public hotspots is passwords/accepting Terms of use (like at McD), not sure how you could do that from your watch. If you could set up connection once with your iPhone and then the watch remembered the parameters next time you went there (and didn't need to log on again), that would be the best.

The solution is truly public no password wifi becoming popular as was suggested by many groups over the years including Steve Jobs himself. Maybe Apple could simply offer a pre-configured airport express for public places. Or groups could create websites that show how to set-up common routers for the same, and publicize it with adwords and such to make it actually visible.