WiFi Busses?

Bus company National Express is trialling Wi-Fi hotspots installed on it’s coaches running between London and Cambridge.
Travellers on it’s 010 route will be able to access the internet on any 802.11b/g enabled device including laptops, PDA’s at no extra charge above the usual ticket price.

The mSystem MobilAP-3G technology is supplied by Telabria and means that users can expect speeds of up to 300Kbps by routing through 3G networks where available. While this is not lightning fast broadband, using existing 3G means that coverage is more extensive than using a propriety system. Telabria is also planning to support HSDPA (High Speed Packet Download Access) during 2006 when phone operators upgrade, this will see download speeds increase to over 1.5 Mbps.
“We are very excited about the potential of this trial and the benefits it will bring to our customers, particularly those on busy commuter routes who increasingly see the value of staying connected before they reach their place of work and after they leave.”
“But it’s not just the business community who will benefit. Mobile communication is increasingly being seen as a pre-requisite by a wide variety of travellers on the move.”
Gerry Price, chief engineer, National Express

Although the trial will not charge customers, the mSystem MobilAP-3G system allows for operators to charge for access, although no pricing details, if any, have been released.

Source: UK Broadband Usergroup