Transport for London (TfL) has delayed trials of mobile phone technology at underground Tube stations to allow for further feasibility studies.

The transport group had originally planned to trial mobile phone and wireless internet usage at one underground station this summer, but after consulting with technology experts it has now decided further research is necessary.

Starting in April, TfL will conduct a two-month feasibility study at four 'deep-level' stations in central London. The trials will start in late 2007, and TfL says it is still on track to introduce mobile phone coverage to Tube stations by the middle of 2008 (Computing, 31 March).

‘The trial has been rescheduled because of the need to undertake a feasibility study to look at the practicalities of introducing mobile phone and new technology provision on the Tube,’ said a TfL spokesman.

The study will examine location of technology, power needs, effects on signalling and station design, as well as the operational and commercial characteristics of providing passengers with mobile phone coverage on London Underground.

If trials prove successful, TfL will use the infrastructure to introduce a range of technological services, including DAB digital radio, DVB digital video broadcasting and wireless internet.

TfL says it could extend services into tunnels and moving trains, but has no immediate plans to do so.

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