Australian operator Telstra and local start-up Cab Digital Media have introduced TaxiLive, a custom designed digital billboard for the rear of premium taxis. The digital platform allows safety messages and advertising to be sent to the taxis depending on their location, the time of day and even the weather. The ‘smart’ taxi-backs use GPS enabled smart screens that Cab Digital Media connect to and remotely manage via the unrivalled coverage and capability of the Telstra mobile network.

Telstra and Cab Digital Media developed the Internet of Things (IoT) service together with Telstra sourcing and connecting the technology components. Cab Digital Media plans to partner with roadside authorities to share the GPS data generated from each TaxiLive unit which could contribute to future transport, infrastructure and congestion reduction initiatives.

The first taxis fitted with TaxiLive are already available on Sydney roads, featuring advertising from brands including Channel 10 and Telstra. Cab Digital Media expects to have more than 300 cabs fitted with TaxiLive in Sydney by 1 April and 945 nationally by November this year.