31.05.17
TfL closer to offering mobile phone coverage on the Tube
Commuters could soon be able to make phone calls and surf the internet anywhere on the Tube network, it has been reported,
Currently, Virgin Media supplies wi-fi at station platforms, but this connection does not cover tunnels, meaning that passengers cannot connect to the internet when the trains are moving.
But today, the Financial Times has reported that TfL have been working with the mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, and is in early talks with a number of companies wanting to bid for the contract to supply a mobile phone network to the Underground.
In a number of other cities across the world including Paris, Berlin, Tokyo and New York, similar systems are already in place, and London looks set to become the next place to have a fully connected metro.
Last year, TfL announced it was in similar talks with companies to deliver the network, but unfortunately none of the negotiations came to fruition.
A TfL spokesperson confirmed that: “We are keen to offer full mobile phone coverage for our customers. The introduction of this would need to be commercially viable and would follow engagement with staff and customers.”
Top Image: Tim Ireland PA Images
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