A new #TravelKind campaign from TfL aims to make travelling by tube quieter, ending the menace of people who play loud music from their phones without using headphones. Auracast is the perfect solution, particularly for those who want to share their music with the world around them.
When it comes to understanding the problem, we have all been there – especially commuters crammed into busy carriages. From the peace and quiet of the game of sardines, suddenly someone decides the whole train needs to hear their mate Dave’s weekend plans, a TikTok soundtrack or their latest Spotify download.
On Monday, Transport for London (TfL) launched a new campaign asking travellers to use headphones instead of blaring out noise to their fellow passengers. Posters on the Elizabeth Line are already up, with buses, the Underground and the Docklands Light Railway next in line.
According to its research, seven in 10 passengers say loud calls and music are disruptive … while many of us have experienced this in the quiet carriages of mainline railway services.
Announcing the plans, London’s Deputy Mayor for Transport Seb Dance said: “The vast majority of Londoners use headphones when travelling, but the small minority who play music or videos out loud can be a real nuisance to other passengers and directly disturb their journeys.”
But here’s the thing: no matter how many posters are put up, there will always be that one person who thinks their playlist is a gift to humanity.
Which is why the real fix might not be politeness, but Auracast.
Headphones help… but Auracast can help more
While TfL’s posters are welcome, what’s really needed is a way for everyone to listen without bothering anyone else.
Enter Auracast, the new Bluetooth LE Audio technology now appearing in earbuds and headphones, hearing aids, and cochlear implants.
One of the most significant advantages of Auracast is that it doesn’t require a solo connection. With the right phone, it is possible to share your music with others. So, if you are on a night out with friends, one of you can be the DJ and everyone can use the Auracaster’s QR code to tune in to the tracks and listen in with their own headphones.
Easy, discreet sound,
Blissful journeys in silence,
Shared space, stress-free peace.
And for those who want to hear what’s coming over the Tannoy, well, if TfL go further and install Auracast across their platforms, trains, buses, boats and cable cars, we are all for it. We have already demonstrated how the Bristol Temple Meads trial is making a difference with platform announcements.
Just imagine a crisp, Auracasted version of that perennial muffled announcement: “Mind the gap between the train and the platform edge” delivered straight into your ears in high-quality audio.
TfL wants quieter commutes and clearer journeys
Picture posed by model, photographer: Rich Smith on Unsplash
TfL’s Customer Director Emma Strain adds: “Even just a small number of people not using headphones can create an unpleasant or stressful environment for others.”
Auracast expands on that.
Everyone can get the audio they want, whether it’s announcements or entertainment, without disturbing the carriage.
It offers a better option for commuters who love music on the go, enjoy movies on the move, or can’t wait to find out what Dave is up to this weekend.
And for those with hearing aids, cochlear or other assistive listening devices, it’s more than just convenience. Announcements could be made more clearly, making travel less stressful and more inclusive – no more missed stop names or garbled safety messages.
The timing couldn’t be better.
TfL is rolling out 4G and 5G across the Underground, DLR and Elizabeth line, working with Boldyn Networks and all four UK mobile operators. That means more people streaming on the move – and more temptation to ditch the headphones.
Adding Auracast to the mix yields a better solution. Instead of being “that passenger” blasting out voice notes to commuters struggling to wake up, you just tap into an Auracast channel and keep it private.
Picture it: a sign on board reads “This train supports Auracast. Connect now.”
No fuss, no noise, no tutting, and no Paddington Bear stares from fellow commuters.
From #TravelKind to #TravelQuiet
TfL’s #TravelKind campaign is all about being respectful on the move. But Auracast could take it one step further: respectful by default.
For Londoners, that means fewer unwanted soundtracks to the morning commute. For passengers with hearing loss, it means clearer, more accessible journeys. And for everyone else? Just a little more peace and quiet.
Because honestly, no one asked to hear your WhatsApp voice notes at 8am. Not even Dave.
