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News and analysis of developments in the enterprise communication industry and market with primary focus on Europe.

The author aims to tap into ideas, insights and thoughts of the readers to get varied perspectives.

Views expressed in this blog are solely the author's opinion and in no way reflect those of his employer.

Wednesday, February 28, 2007

Why doesn't London underground have wireless connectivity?

I have often wondered what it takes for the underground network in London to have wireless connectivity. Technically, it isn't impossible. Then why?

Seems like operators need to enter into an agreement with the transport of London on modalities of revenue sharing before any such service can be offered to thousands of passengers who commute long distances daily. Seems amazing. What about public service? What about value for money? I continue to be amazed at the roadblocks bureaucracy creates in offering one of the basic services.

So, it is the transport of London that is stopping the mobile carriers from setting up pico and femto cells across the underground network. Thales, which operates the communication network doesn't quite see a lucrative value proposition to offer mobile connectivity to the customers of underground service. Egad!

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