London Underground is undergoing a major mobile connectivity upgrade, with plans to equip the entire network with 4G and 5G coverage by the end of 2026. Currently, around 60% of underground stations have mobile service, primarily in central London, but expansion is accelerating.
All four major UK operators—Three, EE, Vodafone, and Virgin Media O2—are participating in the project. Engineers from Boldyn Networks are working to connect the Northern, Bakerloo, and Metropolitan lines by summer 2026, along with underground sections of the Docklands Light Railway and the Windrush line between Highbury & Islington and New Cross.
Major transport hubs like King's Cross St Pancras, Victoria, and Paddington are initially receiving coverage in ticket halls and on platforms due to their complexity. Full connectivity across these stations is expected to follow.
Transport for London (TfL) has reminded passengers to use headphones when listening to music or taking calls, as the improved network may lead to an increase in 'bare beaters'—people playing audio on loudspeaker. London TravelWatch welcomed the upgrade, noting it can enhance passenger safety by enabling quick communication and reporting of incidents.
Rebecca Bissell from TfL stated: 'We remain focused on having 4G and 5G mobile coverage across the whole Tube network by the end of the year, and more than 600 engineers work hard overnight during limited engineering hours to help deliver this.'
