Chiltern Railways has launched a new Wi-Fi service, which will allow passengers to move between stations and on-train networks without losing internet connectivity.
The new system was made possible by a partnership between Chiltern's parent company Arriva UK Trains, WiFi SPARK, Icomera, and EE. Passengers can connect to platform systems provided by WiFi SPARK and on-train Wi-Fi provided by Icomera, by using EE 4G connectivity.
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When a train approaches a station, the onboard Wi-Fi temporarily hands over to the station Wi-Fi to give the passenger the best connectivity available and saves network costs.
Arriva UK Trains Digital Transformation director Kevin Ives said: “This really is next generation Wi-Fi. Passengers want to be continuously connected to fast and reliable Wi-Fi as they move through every step of their journey.
“This collaboration with WiFi SPARK, Icomera, and EE provides Chiltern Railways' customers with a seamless service from the moment they arrive at the station and is part of our ongoing commitment to provide the very best digital train experience for our passengers.”
Data communication between Icomera and WiFi SPARK systems is encrypted using secure sockets layer (SSL) to ensure privacy.
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By GlobalDataWiFi SPARK took responsibility to install the infrastructure in stations, while Icomera provided Chiltern’s onboard Wi-Fi technology. EE is currently working to upgrade trackside infrastructure and deliver a continuous connection along the route.
