Request ID: FOI-2777-2223 Date published: 20 February 2023
You asked
I am sending this email to request information under the Freedom of Information Act 2000 on the topic of Mobile phones and Wi-Fi underground.
• In 2024, Tfl plans to have a 4G mobile connection available in the tube, what limitations (if any) will there be for customers?
• Has Tfl encountered any issues with the Jubilee line 4G mobile connection that may continue to occur in the coming 4G systems?
• What information does TfL have on its station Wi-fi users? Why do customers use this service (entertainment, communication, etc.)?
• What percentage (or number) of customers use the wifi service?
We answered
TfL Ref: FOI-2777-2223
Thank you for your request which we received on 27 January 2023, asking for information about Wi-Fi on the London Underground.
Your request has been considered in accordance with the requirements of the Freedom of Information Act and our information access policy. I can confirm that we hold some of the information you require. You specifically asked:
In 2024, Tfl plans to have a 4G mobile connection available in the tube, what limitations (if any) will there be for customers?
None, it is the same as above ground.
Has Tfl encountered any issues with the Jubilee line 4G mobile connection that may continue to occur in the coming 4G systems?
No, it has been very reliable. The new system has higher resilience and should be even more reliable.
What information does TfL have on its station Wi-fi users? Why do customers use this service (entertainment, communication, etc.)?
TfL holds no personal information on Wi-Fi users and we don’t monitor their browsing activity. The public service is provided by a concessionaire - currently Virgin Media and soon to be transferred to BAI Communications Ltd.
What percentage (or number) of customers use the wifi service?
Most connections are through the mobile network operators (O2, EE and 3UK) and therefore TfL doesn’t hold information on the number of active users of the system.
If this is not the information you are looking for, or if you are unable to access it for any reason, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Please see the attached information sheet for details of your right to appeal as well as information on copyright and what to do if you would like to re-use any of the information we have disclosed.
Yours sincerely
Eva Hextall FOI Case Management Team General Counsel Transport for London
