London Underground set for wireless revolution
Monday, 28 March 2011 11:43
Specialists in communication system design have been invited to provide the London Underground with wireless connectivity.
Transport for London (TfL) has asked telecoms firms to build a Wi-Fi network across 120 tube stations in the capital, following a successful trial at Charing Cross.
Bosses at the organisation suggested that passengers were receptive to the pilot scheme, which was conducted by BT Openzone and started in November 2010.
TfL plans to offer a contract to the winning bidder by the end of 2011, so that Wi-Fi can be installed at stations in time for the 2012 London Olympics.
This is just one part of a major overhaul of the London Underground, with plans already in place to make it the first transport system in the world to be wholly accessible via contactless payment cards.
Such measures are being taken to make the Underground more passenger-friendly.
A survey conducted by the organisation discovered more than half of respondents said being able to access wireless internet on their mobile phones and laptops would enhance their use of the tube.
