Perhaps one of the most annoying aspects of public transport is when you are sharing the ride with someone who is blasting their calls or music on their phone"s speaker as if they own the public transport system. It seems like the Transport for London (TfL) authority agrees with this sentiment, which is why it is encouraging members of the public to wear headsets and earphones while in transit.
TfL"s survey from June 2025 indicated that around 70% of 1,000 surveyed commuters have experienced disturbance while traveling due to someone playing loud music or taking calls without a headset. Although the city understands that 4G and 5G connectivity have made it easier to stay connected with the rest of the world regardless of where you are, it has noted that these loud disturbances are a nuisance to others, especially those who suffer from autism or heightened sensitivity to sound.
This is why the authority has extended its #TravelKind campaign, initially launched in 2017, to also put up posters along the Elizabeth line railway network, reminding the public to use headsets. It has also partnered with JBL to run an Instagram competition, through which it is raffling five pairs of wireless JBL Live 770 NC headphones.
Deputy Mayor for Transport, Seb Dance, highlighted that:
The vast majority of Londoners use headphones when traveling on public transport in the capital, but the small minority who play music or videos out loud can be a real nuisance to other passengers and directly disturb their journeys.
TfL"s new campaign will remind and encourage Londoners to always be considerate of other passengers. However Londoners spend their journey, whether catching up on their favorite series or listening to music, we want everyone to have a pleasant journey.
Starting from October, TfL will also be putting the same posters on buses, Docklands Light Railway, London Overground, London Underground, and London Tram services. It has also encouraged commuters to look up from their phone screens intermittently just to check if someone needs their seat more than they do.