All SamTrans buses will be online by next month. Passengers will be able to text, email, and browse the Internet on any SamTrans bus. Onboard Wi-Fi service is equivalent to 4G for basic Internet use, but limits streaming and large downloads.
Adding Wi-Fi was a recommendation in SamTrans 2015-2019 Strategic Plan to increase ridership and target youth under 24.
Several major Bay Area transportation agencies have also been adding Wi-Fi as an amenity for riders. In April 2021, SF Muni announced Wi-Fi would be available along with other improvements, such as track grinding for a smoother ride and better directional signs.
According to the San Francisco Chronicle, CalTrain will get Wi-Fi later this year, as a part of the rail line’s plan to go fully electric.