The Swiss Federal Railways has started testing free mobile internet based on 3G/4G coverage on the main train routes. However, it does not cover all Swiss operators.
To increase connection coverage across its rail network and in tunnels, the state-owned company is relying on the mobile networks rather than on wi-fi.
In order to benefit from the free internet service on the trains, travellers must have a mobile phone and a Swiss SIM card from Salt or Sunrise. Users also need to download the “FreeSurf SBB” application and identify themselves using a telephone number.
After registration and activation, they receive confirmation that they can surf for free via their operator. When the traveller leaves the train or if the link is interrupted, a notification is sent to indicate that free internet access is no longer active, the Federal Railways explained.
The test phase is due to last several months before possibly being rolled out to the entire rail network. A solution is also being considered for travellers without mobile SIM cards, such as tourists.
The Federal Railways says discussions are ongoing with Swisscom and UPC, which are currently not participating in the tests.
In 2013, the first Swiss train stations were equipped with WLAN, and internet connectivity on the rail system has improved since then, with 97% network coverage currently.
Trains are being fitted with amplifiers to boost signal strength while all tunnels should be equipped with 4G coverage by 2022.
On its international service routes, the company says it plans to install WLAN for passengers on journeys to neighbouring countries by the end of the year.
More
Public transport in Switzerland
Switzerland’s system of railways, long-distance buses and local transport is regarded as among the best in the world.
New gel developed in Zurich renders alcohol harmless
This content was published on
A newly developed gel composed of whey proteins breaks down alcohol in the body and could reduce its harmful and intoxicating effects in humans.
Pro-Palestine protests extend to Basel and Fribourg universities
This content was published on
Demonstrators called for an academic boycott of all Israeli institutions and disassociation with Chaim Weizmann, the first Israeli president.
This content was published on
In many cases, China's use of AI undermines the national security of the US and its allies, according to a US government representative.
Swiss Hells Angels trial alleges rape and money laundering
This content was published on
An allegedly high-ranking member of the Hells Angels is accused of money laundering totalling millions and rape, among other serious crimes.
SWISS is airline ‘group flagship’ says Lufthansa boss
This content was published on
Despite challenges, Lufthansa and its most important subsidiary, Swiss International Airlines, promise increased satisfaction and continued growth.
Swiss rediscover communist zeal after 84-year hiatus
This content was published on
Over 300 participants founded the Revolutionary Communist Party (RKP) at its congress in Burgdorf in canton Bern at the weekend.
This content was published on
Nemo brought the Eurovision Song Contest to Switzerland with a victory on Saturday evening in Malmö, Sweden. It is Switzerland's third victory in the history of the music contest.
If you want to start a conversation about a topic raised in this article or want to report factual errors, email us at english@swissinfo.ch.
Read more
More
Swiss train passengers to surf internet for free from 2019
This content was published on
The Swiss Federal Railways will begin introducing free internet surfing based on 3G/4G mobile coverage on trains by the end of next year.
This content was published on
Step on any train, regional or otherwise, in Switzerland and the chances are that most passengers will be looking at their phones. But the poor quality of the internet signal can sometimes lead to frustration. This is all set to change. This week Swiss Federal Railways and telecom firms began installing 4G/3G repeaters in trains…
You can find an overview of ongoing debates with our journalists here . Please join us!
If you want to start a conversation about a topic raised in this article or want to report factual errors, email us at english@swissinfo.ch.