NYC converting payphones into Wi-Fi hotspots
Think those lonely payphone booths are going the way of the dinosaur? You’re not alone. But it looks like officials in New York City are looking to turn a page by breathing new life into the old boxes.
The City if New York has launched an initiative that is turning payphones into free Wi-Fi hotpots.
At first, three boroughs will have some phonebooths converted, with the number expanding to five.
According to The Next Web, the city is reportedly putting an emphasis on powering up phonebooths in Manhattan in an effort to turn the city that never sleeps into a city that never looses wireless connectivity – and spur startup activity.
The move comes after Wi-Fi and cell service was added to New York’s subway stations – a project still waiting to happen in Toronto. Then again – who wants to hear people yapping into their phones all the time – even on a subway train?
Regardless, the move by the city appears to be a smart one. Payphones are being used almost as often as we send a telegram, so turning them into wireless Internet hubs is great way at extending their lifespan.
Do you think payphones in Canada should be turned into wireless hotpots? When was the last time you made a call using one?
- Maurice Cacho, MSN Tech & Gadgets
Comments
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Posted by: MK sam | Jul 12, 2012 11:59:31 AM
nice step from the new york city gov. i loved your post.
thank you