Superfast free broadband has arrived on the Thames.
Anyone logged on to free-hotspot.com while near the river between Putney Bridge and Woolwich Arsenal will get speeds of up to 20 megabits per second in some areas.
A series of powerful routers have been installed by Global Reach Technologies along the 18-mile stretch. They will work up to 50 metres from the river bank.
For the next seven days users will be able to access the new network by downloading the Evening Standard mobile and tablet app.
The firms behind the project, Global Reach Technologies and MOOH, say the service is faster than 3G and as fast in places as 4G.
It is expected to be especially popular with people commuting alongside the Thames and tourists at riverside cafés and restaurants.
The firms make money through advertising tie-ins, the first of which is for Billy Elliot the Musical.
Nigel Wesley, chief executive of Holborn-based Global Reach Technologies, said: “It’s great to get such a prominent London network online. So far we’ve rolled out over 100 high-output outdoor wi-fi hubs, which all link together to create a mesh network, providing users with a completely seamless wi-fi experience through free-hotspot.com”
Paul Grundy, chief executive of Soho-based MOOH, said: “This is a great way for brands to interact with consumers on the move and we’re delighted that London’s theatre production, Billy Elliot the Musical, has opted to be one of our launch partners. To access the free-hotspot.com network users simply complete a one-time registration, view a digital advert, pre-roll video or even download an app and they’ll be able to enjoy free wi-fi.”
