The authorities are expected to launch a new trial for countdown timers at pedestrian crossing lights next year.

The timers, which involve the use of artificial intelligence, will inform people of changes of traffic lights in advance, helping them decide if they have enough time to cross the road.

In a written reply to an inquiry in Legco, transport chief Frank Chan said the system is being designed and components are being procured, and trials will be conducted at suitable crossings.

He said the countdown will start to display when the "green man" light is on, rather than when it started flashing, as in previous trials in 2006 and 2018.

He also said results of those trials showed that more pedestrians were still crossing the road when the "green man" light ended, so the devices did not improve safety.

Chan added that pedestrian sensors will be integrated in the timers' operation.