In recent months, Government Technology has reported on different NYC pilot projects aimed at injecting modernity into its dwindling payphone inventory. Interactive smart screens featuring neighborhood-specific information now adorn some phone booths, while others now act as Wi-Fi hot spots.
City officials report that even though the current inventory of more than 11,000 payphones is substantially less than the 35,000 of the mid-1990s, they still provide a vital function to citizens in this largely digital world.
“While the widespread adoption of mobile devices reduces the overall need for payphones, not everyone owns a mobile phone and not everyone has connectivity at all times,” reads a press release issued by the city in announcing the “Reinvent Payphones” initiative.
“We’re asking our tech community for new takes on older technology, and inviting designs about how they might enhance the vitality of our public spaces,” said Information Technology and Telecommunications Commissioner Rahul N. Merchant.
The city is promoting the challenge at several local universities, hoping to inspire participation from students and the academic community. Prototype applications, due Feb. 18, 2013, will be judged based on several criteria: connectivity, creativity, visual design, functionality and community impact.
More information about the challenge is available on the Reinvent Payphones website.
Editor's note: This story was updated on December 10, 2012 to include the YouTube video featuring Mayor Bloomberg. Photo from Shutterstock
