Virgin Media emerged the victor in bidding for the Wi-Fi contract that will see 80 London Underground stations achieve Wi-Fi connectivity in time for the summer Olympics. This service will first be introduced to 80 stations by the time July rolls around, and that figure will hit 120 by the end of 2012, assuming the world does not end in December. Before you get too excited, do bear in mind that the Wi-Fi connections will function only at station platforms, and not when trains are travelling through the tunnels. I guess this is better than nothing, as you can always fire off a quick email or Whatsapp message while waiting for your train.
According to London mayor Boris Johnson, “Millions of passengers will now be able to connect to their work, friends or access the latest news and travel information whilst on the move. This is a fabulous new and free resource which will be in place from this summer when London is being showcased on a global stage and playing host to millions.” Virgin Media’s attempt at installing the Wi-Fi network will be sourced from a total capital expenditure budget of approximately £640m for the year.