UK tech firm Aircharge launches wireless charging on London Waterloo’s South Western trains

Trains on London Waterloo's South Western railway network have become the first in the world to debut wireless charging points for smartphones and tablets, helping commuters to grab that extra bit of power on their travels.

Aircharge, the UK tech firm behind wireless charging points in Starbucks, Mcdonald's and Costa Coffee, has teamed up with train supplier Baker Bellfield to install the system on refurbished South Western trains this month.

Initially launching on the London Waterloo to Weymouth route via Southampton and Bournemouth, commuters hailing from the south west will be able to top up their phone battery without the need for cables.

"London Waterloo is the UK’s busiest railway station in terms of passenger footfall, so it is fitting that the UK’s first fully rail compliant inductive phone wireless charging system will be making its debut on South Western Railway’s refurbished trains," Aircharge chief Steve Liquorish told City PM.

"Londoners generally spend a significant portion of their day commuting, particularly in and out of major hubs like Waterloo, and rely on mobile devices as essential travel companions – both for personal and business purposes.

"For commuters sending the last work emails of the day, making arrangements for tomorrow’s meetings, or finalising their personal plans for the evening, wireless power can be their safety net."

The news comes after Aircharge first expanded into mobile services last month, launching on bus routes between London and various airports, including Gatwick and Heathrow.

Wireless charging has been rising in popularity with smartphone manufacturers, with Apple, Google and Samsung all having released products with wireless charging compatibility in recent months.