Virgin Mobile customers in the UK will soon be able to connect to Arqiva’s Wi-Fi network after the two companies entered a four-year deal.
The UK-based communications and media services company will provide customers on Virgin Media’s mobile network with hotspot connectivity in over 3,000 public locations, including London Heathrow and Manchester Airport, pubs, hotels and other outdoor spots.
Users will be able to connect “seamlessly” using Virgin Media’s Wi-Fi buddy app.
According to Arqiva, recent consumer research by the company revealed that 53 percent of people said it was ‘critical’ or ‘important’ to be able to connect to the internet when outside the home or office.
In June, the company announced it would be working with a number of vendors to trial small cell technology in Southampton city centre, after winning exclusive rights to provide outdoor wireless connectivity in the area.
The previous month, Arqiva said it would be providing free Wi-Fi services in public spaces across five London boroughs, including Camden, Wandsworth, Hounslow, Islington and Hammersmith & Fulham.
Users can access the boroughs’ online services for free while in the area, as well as get 30 minutes of free use on other websites.
Meanwhile, Virgin Media currently provides free Wi-Fi services on the London Underground for customers of EE, O2, Vodafone and Three mobile networks.
Annie Brooks, Director of Mobile at Virgin Media, said: “We‘re always looking at new ways to ensure our customers have access to the best possible data connection.
“Whether customers are in their home or on the go it’s important we’re able to deliver a seamless integrated experience when it comes to data connectivity.”
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