Good news for all you people with smartphones, tablets, phablets, and laptops: you may soon be able to connect them to Wi-fi networks on the Guangzhou Metro.

GZ Metro has been dealing with a flood of complaints over slow 3G internet access on trains, so it is working with mobile operators to fix the issue.  Like in other cities, like Hong Kong, 3G operators line metro tunnels with cables providing better wireless access.

But even that might not be enough, so the metro is looking at also installing free Wi-fi.  It has conducted a test already on several lines this year, but hasn’t rolled it out yet for large-scale testing.  There are some concerns that it may interfere with the operation of the train.  It says more testing needs to be done before a final decision can be made.

Wi-fi is already available on one train in Guangzhou: the Kowloon-Canton Through Train to Hong Kong, although it’s a paid service.

Additional Information:

• Guangzhou Metro Map & Information
• A Review of the Kowloon-Canton Through Train