The new “In Metro” multimedia information service went operational today at subway and funicular stations managed by Metronapoli, the company responsible for the city’s rail-based transport. The new system offers locals and tourists real-time access to tourist and service information via interactive infopoints and videowalls in stations.
The system was designed and built by Telecom Italia, in synergy with Metronapoli, after Telecom Italia won a European-wide call for tenders issued by the Neapolitan transport company. The project also received POR regional funding. The technology platform enables Metronapoli to remotely control and manage the information points at its stations, immediately send out multimedia content and make real-time updates.The technology platform enables Metronapoli to remotely control and manage the information points at its stations, immediately send out multimedia content and make real-time updates.
The solution is based on interactive and touchscreen infopoints. A touch of a finger gives passengers access to the Customer Notices section, where a navigation menu can be used to call up service information on the entire Metronapoli system: “Notices” on train frequency, planned strike action, changes to timetables, additional late services; “cultural events” within the metro system at, for example, one of the permanent in-station museum, and “Service Regulations” with full details provided.
The Tourism section offers information on sites and services available in the vicinity of the station: Cultural sites, Services (ATM machines, pharmacies and hospitals), Mobility (public transport and taxis), and Emergency (Carabinieri and police). Every point of interest can be mapped, and information is provided on address, phone number and even graphic or text directions on how to get to the location. The Cultural sites sub-section also features a photo of the location, a brief historical overview, and supplementary information such as opening times and dates.
Every infopoint is equipped with a Bluetooth service that allow passengers to access tourism section services on the move from their own mobile phones. The application can be automatically installed merely by standing close to the terminal, turning on Bluetooth, and confirming that you wish to receive content from Metronapoli. Once the map has been downloaded, tourists can view the local area on their cellphone outside the station, see all of the local sites of interest, and get directions.
Infopoint information – in five languages (Italian, English, French, German and Spanish) – is also available in spoken form simply by tapping the “Listen” button on the graphic interface.
In-station maxi-videowalls near the interactive infopoints broadcast video and up-to-date operational information tickers. The high visibility videowalls also display the time of day and a station map.
Naples, March 4, 2009