Two leading phone networks have signed a deal to provide high-speed mobile connectivity across the whole London Tube network for the first time.

Three and EE have joined the BAI Communications (BAI) network to provide 4G and 5G-ready mobile connectivity across the London Underground.

The deal between the two networks and BAI, which was awarded a 20-year concession with Transport for London (TfL) to deliver mobile connectivity on the Underground, will give customers on the networks access to uninterrupted coverage whilst on the Tube and within the stations.

All mobile operators will be able to access the London Underground WiFi, as well as BAI's neutral host mobile network, which can also be made available to the Emergency Services Network (ESN).

The infrastructure will also be 5G-ready, allowing upgrades in the future.

Since BAI was awarded the concession in June 2021, work at some of London's busiest stations, including Oxford Circus, Tottenham Court Road, Bank, Euston and Camden Town, is underway to prepare them to be some of the first to be connected by the end of 2022.

All stations and tunnels across the Tube network are due to have high-quality and uninterrupted mobile coverage by the end of 2024.

Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan said: "I'm delighted to see Three and EE sign up as the first operators to provide full high-speed 4G access across the tube network.

"This will make a huge difference to passengers, allowing them to make calls, read emails and check travel information while on the move. Investing in London's connectivity and digital infrastructure is one important way we are helping to stimulate our city's economy.

"It also represents a significant step towards ensuring the whole Tube network has 5G-ready mobile coverage."

Progress continues to be made to ensure that customers on the upcoming Elizabeth line can enjoy mobile connectivity as soon as possible once it has opened in the first half of 2022.

Work is now underway to allow 4G connectivity to start being introduced for customers on both the trains and platforms during 2022.

From launch, customers will be able to benefit from WiFi connectivity within stations along the line in the same way they currently experience within Tube stations.

WiFi access within the tunnels will be introduced later in 2022.