LinkUK has made a significant move to enhance internet access in the UK, expanding its free WiFi coverage to more areas. This expansion aims to bridge the digital divide and provide equal access to internet services.
LinkUK has partnered with various local authorities to achieve this goal, with a focus on areas with limited internet access. By doing so, they're helping to level the playing field and promote digital inclusion.
According to recent statistics, LinkUK's free WiFi network now covers over 50% of the UK population, making it one of the most extensive free WiFi networks in the country.
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Link Expands Free WiFi to UK
LinkUK is launching in partnership with BT, bringing sleek kiosks to major high streets across London. Hundreds of users within range of a Link will be able to access free ultrafast Wi-Fi on the move, with speeds of up to 1Gbps.
The service will include UK landline and mobile phone calls, mobile device charging, and access to maps, directions, and local services, all at no cost to users or taxpayers. These services will be funded by revenues from advertising on the Links' digital displays.
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Rajesh Agrawal, London's Deputy Mayor for Business, welcomes this new addition to London's streets, highlighting its potential to improve connectivity for Londoners and visitors while reducing street clutter.
The LinkUK service will be rolled out to major high streets across London, with the first kiosks being placed around the capital.
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BT's Involvement in UK WiFi
BT has been at the forefront of introducing smart WiFi kiosks in the UK, with their InLinkUK service launched in summer 2017.
The service has been rolled out across 23 UK cities, with hundreds of kiosks installed, each offering 1Gbps capable public WiFi, free UK phone calls, USB device charging, and a range of other digital services.
BT has purchased the entire UK estate of InLinkUK's smart WiFi kiosks, bringing all 494 units under their full ownership.
The kiosks have been praised for delivering economic, social, and technology benefits to communities and local councils.
However, some kiosks have attracted criticism, with concerns raised about drug-related calls and planning applications being affected.
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BT's advertising partner, Global, will continue to handle advertising sales for the InLink units.
The InLink units will continue to form a critical part of BT's digital street strategy, with the company looking to further develop the service.
Around 1,000 of BT's traditional payphones have been removed as the new kiosks have been deployed, freeing up a square kilometre of pavement space and enhancing city streetscapes.
Additional reading: Advertising Network
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