London’s buses are being updated with free Wi-Fi as part of the network’s 60th anniversary, Transport for London (TfL) has announced.
Currently, this free Wi-Fi service is only being trialled on two buses, but if it proves to be successful the entire fleet will be equipped with the technology. One of the buses in question runs on the number 12 route, which travels from Dulwich to Oxford Circus, whilst the other bus drives the RV1 route that operates between Covent Garden and Tower Hill, reports ibtimes.co.uk.
If the free Wi-Fi service proves popular with passengers, TfL will look for sponsors to fund the technology, so that connectivity can be rolled out quickly. It’s currently provided by Bluepod media, reports computerworlduk.com.
Wi-Fi isn’t the only new tech to be trialled on the buses though, as TfL is also testing a new seat-detecting system. Using CCTV technology, the system will inform passengers on the lower deck of the bus how many seats are available up top, to stop people needlessly walking up and down the stairs.
TfL’s head of technical services group, Simon Reed, said the trials will help assess whether the tech is useful to Londoners or not.
“London buses have always led the way with new technology on its network, benefiting the millions of passengers who make the most of the extensive network every day,” he explained.
“Innovation is a key theme of the Year of the Bus and we have worked with our suppliers to find new and innovative ways to further improve the experience of our passengers.”
