BT Is Launching LinkUK, Offering Londoners Ultra-Fast WiFi Throughout The City

First launched in New York City in January this year, the Links will offer Londoners ultra-fast WiFi whenever they are in reach of one of the kiosks.
For the initiative, BT has teamed up with the UK’s leading outdoor advertising company Primesight and urban innovation company Intersection, who was behind LinkNYC.
Each of the 750 Links will be strategically placed around London, offering passers-by free, ultra-fast WiFi with speeds of up to 1 Gbps.
And for those using the premium service, the Links offer UK landline and mobile phone calls, mobile charging and access to maps, directions and local services.
Gerry McQuade, CEO of BT Wholesale and Ventures explains a little more about the Links: “We’re evolving the phone box to make it relevant in the 21st century by offering people ultra-fast WiFi and a range of digital and information services entirely for free.
“London is one of the greatest cities in the world and it’s entirely fitting that it becomes the first UK city to benefit from the Links.
“But we will be rolling out many more Links to the other great cities across the UK over the coming months as we look to transform the look and functionality of our public payphones.”
BT said the LinkUK kiosks will not use taxpayer money, instead generating revenue from advertising on each of the kiosks, which can host digital displays.
BT also aims to give 5% of the advertising content to non-commercial persons in the hopes of benefiting local communities and building stronger relationships with councils.
Rajesh Agrawal, London’s Deputy Mayor for Business said: “I welcome this exciting new addition to London’s streets.
“Expanding London’s digital infrastructure is a priority for the Mayor, and LinkUK can play a big part in improving connectivity for Londoners and visitors to our city, while reducing street clutter by upgrading and reducing the number of phone boxes.
“I look forward to working with BT, Intersection and Primesight to see how we can roll LinkUK across the capital, and to explore its future potential.
“London is already widely regarded as one of the technological capitals of the world but the Mayor is determined to improve connectivity across the city to ensure we maintain that position.”
The Links are set to be introduced in early 2017, with the first instalment of kiosks scheduled to appear in Camden.
To find out more about LinkUK please click here.