Swiss train passengers to surf internet for free from 2019
The Swiss Federal Railways will begin introducing free internet surfing based on 3G/4G mobile coverage on trains by the end of next year. On Thursday, the state-owned company outlined its plans to increase connection coverage across its rail network and in tunnels.
This content was published on
2 minutes
swissinfo.ch
Español
es
Internet gratis en los trenes suizos, a partir de 2019
The rail operator will test a new technology next year on the Zurich-Geneva, St Gallen-Lausanne and Basel-Biel routes, which will allow users to surf for free with better bandwidth than WLAN. It says this will also better allow for 5G coverage on trains in future, particularly when combined with new laser perforated windows on trains.
To start with, only people subscribed to Sunrise and Salt will be able to take advantage of the service. But the Railways said it is in contact with other providers, notably state-controlled telecommunications firm Swisscom.
Mobile hotspots will be provided for tourists using mobile phones without a SIM card. “The aim is to offer free internet on all SBB long-distance trains from 2020,” the train operator stated on Thursday.
In 2013, the first train stations were equipped with WLAN, and internet connectivity on the rail system has improved since then, with 97% network coverage currently. The Railways said it plans to increase coverage to 99% by 2020.
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 will install WLAN for passengers throughout journeys to neighbouring countries.
Protein in abdominal fat could help shape obesity treatment
This content was published on
The study analysed fat cells from different locations in the body, and found that those in the abdomen have unique properties.
North African asylum claims fall after rapid Swiss processing
This content was published on
The accelerated procedure, now out of its test phase, has resulted in a significant drop in applications from North African countries.
This content was published on
The artist's song "The Code" focuses on their journey as a nonbinary individual. It is one of the favourites to win this year's contest.
Swiss climate activists block vehicles near Gotthard tunnel
This content was published on
Around ten climate activists briefly blocked the A2 motorway near the northern entrance of the Gotthard tunnel on Thursday.
Watches belonging to Michael Schumacher up for auction
This content was published on
Schumacher's family is auctioning off eight rare watches from his collection in Geneva. The Christie's auction will take place on Monday.
Joya Marleen and Baschi named best solo acts at Swiss Music Awards
This content was published on
St. Gallen singer Joya Marleen and Baschi from Basel were named artists of the year at the Swiss Music Awards 2024 on Wednesday night.
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
Faster internet for regional Swiss trains
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.