London’s Mayor, Boris Johnson, has expressed a strong desire to make WiFi more accessible throughout the city. We heard a while back that the plan was to achieve city-wide WiFi coverage before the 2012 Olympics. Now, it appears that the plan also includes installing WiFi on London’s many buses.
The existing plan for city-wide WiFi previously included London’s tube stations and bus stops. However, a spokesperson for the Mayor’s office has recently revealed that the plan now extends to include London buses as well.
“The ambition is to have [Wi-Fi access] on bus stops around London and ultimately perhaps on buses”
The Importance of WiFi Accessibility
WiFi accessibility is becoming increasingly important in modern cities. With the rise of mobile technology and the need for constant connectivity, providing WiFi on public transportation can significantly enhance the commuter experience. For many Londoners, buses are a primary mode of transportation. Having WiFi on buses would allow passengers to stay connected, whether for work, social media, or entertainment, making their commutes more productive and enjoyable.
Moreover, WiFi on buses could benefit tourists visiting London. With easy access to the internet, tourists can navigate the city more efficiently, access maps, find local attractions, and stay in touch with friends and family. This initiative could enhance London’s reputation as a forward-thinking, tourist-friendly city.
Challenges and Considerations
While the idea of WiFi on London buses is exciting, there are several challenges and considerations to address. One of the primary concerns is the cost of implementing and maintaining the WiFi infrastructure. Installing WiFi on a large fleet of buses requires significant investment in hardware, software, and ongoing maintenance. Funding for this project would need to be carefully planned and allocated.
Another consideration is the quality and reliability of the WiFi service. With many passengers potentially using the WiFi simultaneously, ensuring a stable and fast connection is crucial. The system would need to handle high data traffic without compromising performance. Additionally, security measures must be in place to protect users’ data and privacy while using public WiFi.
It isn’t clear as yet when they plan to introduce WiFi to the London buses and whether this will happen before the 2012 Olympics. However, the ambition to provide WiFi access on buses is a step towards a more connected and technologically advanced city.
Source Ubergizmo
Image Credit: althani 1986 / Flickr
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
