Deep under London, the battle of the wireless data protocols has been won by 802.11.
Following a trial by the BTOpenzone WiFi network, Transport for London (TfL) has put out to tender a contract to install WiFi networks at up to 120 Underground stations (release).
But TfL’s intention to install mobile coverage underground has been shelved, after the mobile networks proved reluctant to foot the hefty bill themselves.
The upshot means it’s online services, and not the GSM networks, who will own the Underground’s wireless backbone. Instead of standard calls over mobile, expect VoIP to be used, along with all manner of internet services.
Contracts will be awarded at the end of this year for implementation by the 2010 Olympic Games.