It’s estimated that there are now more than 53 million smartphone users in the UK – 99% of 16 – 34 year olds have a smartphone and 96% of 35 – 54 year olds also own one. So, being constantly connected is something that we’re all used to, whether that’s via a smartphone or another device like a tablet or a laptop. One of the major issues with all this tech is that it needs to be charged. Given the frequency with which we tend to use our devices on trains in particular, is it time for UK Rail to accommodate this by offering USB charging for all seats?
Current passenger needs indicate that change is necessary
Most of us can recall a moment on a recent train journey where we realised battery levels were running low and started looking around for a charger socket. If you’re in the right seat then you might have been lucky but if not then you may have had to either ask your neighbour if they could charge your phone for you, or simply go without. This is a fairly unsatisfactory situation, whether you’re travelling for business or you’re on an individual journey. Many train operators ask that passengers specifically book seats with charging points if that’s going to be a necessary part of the journey. However, given the widespread availability of charging options on other forms of transport it does feel like the UK rail network is rather lagging behind.
It’s not just about charging needs
The tech demands of customers on journeys continue to put pressure on UK Rail not just to provide USB charging on all seats but also to cater to other needs. For example, being able to provide reliable onboard Wi-Fi – especially on routes where there is intermittent mobile signal – is at the top of the list. Given that it’s now possible to access reliable Wi-Fi at 30,000 feet passengers have expectations that this should be possible on all train routes too.
Mobile charging needs to be both allowed and encouraged
There has been a serious lack of clarity in the past about whether it’s acceptable to try and charge a phone on the train – commuters in Scotland were at one point baffled by the metal covers that had been screwed over charging points to stop them from being used. And one train passenger in London was arrested on suspicion of trying to abstract electricity after trying to plug an iphone into a train power socket. One clear, consistent policy is obviously required. The best place for USB charging for rail seats is the armrest, or a location that is accessible to each individual seat, and it shouldn’t be long before this is available as an option. Engineers have already developed customised power solutions for plane seats that could potentially be beneficial if added during an interiors upgrade to train carriages.
Passenger expectations are increasingly focused on transport systems that support, not just efficient travel, but being able to do everything on the go, from messaging to work. UK Rail offering USB charging on all seats is going to be a key part of making this happen.
