Virgin Media extends free wi-fi on London Underground until 2013

Virgin Media has extended its free wi-fi on London tubes until 2013 (Picture: TfL)

Virgin had originally planned to start charging commuters for the service, installed in 72 stations across the capital, once the Olympic Games had finished.

However the internet service provider has said underground wi-fi will now remain free until at least the new year.

Virgin is also in talks with other providers about sharing the network, with a view to free wi-fi being included as part of users' home broadband packages.

'Commuters and visitors will be able to make use of the internet throughout 2012 and we’re in positive talks with potential wholesale partners to ensure a fantastic experience for all tube passengers throughout 2012 and beyond,' announced Virgin Media executive Jon James.

More than 660,000 tube users have accessed the wi-fi network, available on station platforms and concourses, since it was switched on in June ahead of the Olympics.

Virgin Media is working to expand the service across more London stations but there are currently no plans to introduce it to tube carriages.

October 12 was the network's busiest day so far, with Virgin Media handling more than 1.1million 'individual sessions'.