Street payphones across Southwark will be transformed into ultra-fast WiFi hotspots under a huge shake up by BT, writes Katherine Johnston…
The new InLinkUK service will replace traditional payphones with street units offering Wi-Fi speeds of up to one gigabit per second, the fastest available in the UK, and free UK landline and mobile phone calls.
InLinkUK’s digital display will also show real-time information such as tube services updates, weather forecasts and community news. Passers-by will also benefit from charging stations.
More than 100 InLinks, described by BT as the ‘next-generation phone box’ will be installed across the borough. They will be funded by advertising revenue.
Neil Coyle, MP for Bermondsey and Old Southwark (pictured), said: “I’m thrilled local people will be able to benefit from InLinkUK from BT.
“They’ll be able to see real-time information such as travel updates and weather as they go about their business, but this is a game-changer in terms of helping people who may not have the internet at home to access more services online, and make calls. Most importantly, all for free.”