With this newly-finalized deal between WiFi Rail and the BART trains of San Francisco, wireless Internet access really has expanded throughout the world of mass public transportation. Subscriptions will be available for monthly, weekly or daily use, according to Gizmodo, and four San Francisco stations are already equipped for WiFi.
The entire BART WiFi network should be completed by the end of 2010, and will ensure that every commuter remains tied to their PDAs and laptops even during their morning commute.
Subway Web Surfing
WiFi Rail Makes Deal with BART for Underground Internet Access
Trend Themes
1. Mass Transit Wifi - The expansion of WiFi access in mass transit systems presents an opportunity for tech companies to develop new platforms and services for commuters.
2. Subscription-based Wifi - The availability of monthly, weekly, and daily WiFi subscriptions in public transportation allows for new revenue streams for WiFi providers and transportation companies.
3. Underground Internet Access - The implementation of underground WiFi access presents an opportunity for businesses to develop new technologies and innovations tailored towards improving connectivity in subterranean environments.
Industry Implications
1. Telecommunications - The trend of mass transit WiFi presents an opportunity for telecommunication companies to expand their service offerings to new customer segments.
2. Transportation - The availability of subscription-based WiFi in public transportation systems presents an opportunity for transportation companies to generate new revenue streams by providing additional value-added services.
3. Technology - The expansion of underground internet access provides an opportunity for technology firms to develop innovative solutions that enable better connectivity in subterranean environments.