Wifi Extra for devices other than smartphones

[GeorgeK]

Hey folks - I used to be able to use the Wifi underground with a number of devices (tablets and more importantly, laptops) by entering my O2 number on the challenge screen once connected to the old Virgin Media service. 

With Wifi Extra now being the only option, I can't understand how can I continue to use a device such as a laptop. As the network is locked, it asks for login details and they don't appear to be the ones you would use to connect to MyO2, or anything else. 

The question is: How can I, an O2 customer, use a non-smartphone device in the underground?

Grateful for your help! 

[MI5 · Accepted solution]

@GeorgeK 

Wifi extra is automatically connected via a sim card.

Devices without a sim cannot connect unless you use a phone to tether from.

[GeorgeK]

But I don't think you can tether a device to a smartphone which is connected to wifi itself. It'd have to be a personal hotspot that draws from cellular signal, which is obviously not available underground. Simply put, a smartphone cannot share internet from the wifi its connected to. 

Sounds like a clear degradation of service. I was relying on this heavily to work between stations! 

[MI5]

@GeorgeK 

Yes, of course you need a mobile data connection.

4g is being rolled out across the underground network to compensate for the wifi withdrawal