Info Kiosk Upgraded, But Still Rarely Used

A number of information kiosks in Beijing have been equipped with 3G connection to the Internet, however people still rarely use them to search for local knowledge.

Beijing has almost finished upgrading 450 information kiosks, including their appearance and range of services, with an aim to provide a better experience for users, the Legal Mirror reported.

Free information kiosks were launched in the capital in 2003. However, many have been out of service due to damage, the report said.

The Global Times reporter found an upgraded kiosk on Andingmenwai Dajie, Dongcheng district Monday. The machine provides service in both Chinese and English.

By touching the screen, users can check for information in Chinese ranging from maps, bus lines, simple English expressions, or even writing to "the mailbox of the mayor."

In English, users can see their current location and then search for nearby embassies, sightseeing spots, shopping centers or ATMs and banks.

"I don't think I'd use it, as I can use my computer at work or home," said a passerby at Andingmen surnamed Liu, "but I guess people who travel to Beijing may need to use one," he added.

Zhong Ying, 27, said "he would prefer to use his own mobile phone to check such information rather than going into these stands."

However, so far "no 3G information kiosk can be found in Chaoyang district," said an employee surnamed Li with the Touch Beijing IT Development Company, which is responsible for managing the kiosks.

Li said that some of the old broken ones in this district had been taken away while some are still under maintenance.

Source: Global Times