Internet kiosks to hit Irish streets

Bill Gates's vision of a world where payphones and bank machines would one day be replaced by Internet kiosks came a step closer yesterday when an Irish company announced plans to provide 10,000 such kiosks within the next two years.

Circle Network has developed "e-kiosks" where customers will be able to purchase airline tickets, check their bank accounts or book accommodation while waiting for a train or plane, visiting a shopping centre or simply on their lunch break.

The touch screen-operated ekiosks will also expose consumers to video e-mail which will allow users to send video messages to personal computers anywhere in the world.

Circle Network has just raised $10 million (£7.7 million) in private funding to introduce 1,000 kiosks in Ireland and Britain over the next six months.

The company was founded three months ago by four Irish people with strong links to the European Internet and telecommunications industry. Its goal is to create the largest e-kiosk infrastructure in the world.

Initially, they will be available through Circle Network's retail partners. Eventually, the e-kiosks will be accessible in public areas.

With each kiosk costing around $10,000 to develop, Circle Network plans to raise a further $100 million to deploy 10,000 kiosks throughout Europe within the next 24 months. Users will pay £1 for 15 minutes of Internet access.

With 650 sites already secured, Circle Network has said it plans to be profitable by the end of this year. Its revenues will be generated through selling positions on the e-kiosk similar to leasing retail trading space. There will also be further revenues flowing from advertising and consumer usage.

The four founders hold 80 per cent of the company equity.

The e-kiosks are currently being built by a Dungarvan, Co Waterford-based engineering company.