How to use Street Hubs
How much does it cost to use a Street Hub?
Street Hubs provide a free digital service. Ultra-fast wi-fi, phone calls to UK landline and mobile phones, council services via the touchscreen tablet and device charging are all free. International and premium rate phone calls can also be made using a calling card.
How can I charge my mobile device at a Street Hub?
Simply plug your charger cable into one of the two fast-charging USB ports located below the headphone jack. These ports are power only, and cannot transfer data to or from a Street Hub.
How can I make a free phone call from a Street Hub?
You can make free phone calls to anywhere in the UK, including mobiles, using the touchpad on the tablet or directly using the keypad.
To make a call using the tablet:
Tap the screen and choose ‘Make a Call’ on the tablet screen
Dial the number you wish to call on the touchscreen
Tap the green handset button to start the call
When you finish your call, press the red handset button to hang up.
To make a call using the keypad:
Dial the number you wish to call on the keypad
Tap the green handset button on the bottom right of the keypad to start the call
When you finish your call, press the red handset button above the ‘Call’ button to hang up.
Need to adjust the call volume? Use the plus (+) and minus (-) or up and down buttons on the keypad (depending on the unit) to turn the volume up or down. You can also plug in your headphones for more privacy.
Can I make an international call from a Street Hub?
Yes, you can make an international call using any international calling card with a UK number. Just follow the instructions on your card.
How can I make an emergency call from a Street Hub?
In an emergency, push the red 999 button twice to connect to the emergency operator.
Wi-fi and other features
What is ultra-fast wi-fi?
With speeds up to one gigabit, Street Hub wi-fi is most likely the fastest you’ve ever experienced, with no data caps or annoying ads.
Will I always receive a gigabit of bandwidth when using the wi-fi?
Not always, many factors can affect the real bandwidth available to a connected device. Among these are the number of devices connected, individual device performance, radio interference in the environment from wireless or other electronic devices, and the speed of the services being accessed. It’s rare to get the full gigabit, but by providing a gigabit network we’re ensuring the best possible performance for all.
How many people can use wi-fi at one Street Hub hotspot before wi-fi speed slows down?
A Street Hub can support hundreds of users simultaneously up to 100 or 150 metres from each unit. Performance depends on the activity, and the network is always shared equally with all connected users.
What kind of tablet functionality does Street Hub provide?
Street Hubs have an integrated custom Android tablet, providing users with free access to council services, charity information, maps, weather and free UK national landline and mobile phone calls.
Which local services can I access on a Street Hub?
This will vary depending on the services available online from local councils and charities.
Street Hub safety
How secure is Street Hub wi-fi?
Any personal information that we store about users is encrypted – your email address cannot be read without a special key. This is the most effective way to secure data. As with any public wi-fi network, we recommend that you always look for the secure lock symbol on your browser bar if you are transmitting any sensitive information.
What safety precautions do you recommend when using Street Hub?
As always, be vigilant while using personal devices on the street or using the free Street Hub tablet. Be mindful of your surroundings and use your device’s security features just in case your device happens to fall into the wrong hands.
I forgot to end my session before I stopped using a Street Hub tablet, what do I do?
Street Hub tablet sessions automatically end after 30 or 45 seconds of inactivity, wiping all user sessions clean.
How does Street Hub use my personal data?
Street Hub is committed to protecting and respecting your privacy. We do not hold or share your data. Our Privacy Notice is available if you would like to know more.
How do I report that something’s wrong?
Please email us at streethub@bt.com
