The City of Winnipeg is testing out free Wi-Fi on buses.

The city launched a pilot project today that sees 12 city buses equipped with Wi-Fi.

Mayor Brian Bowman said at the program's launch today that consultation with bus operators and transit staff will help determine how Wi-Fi technology can help improve safety on buses.

He says Winnipeg Transit will also study opportunities to use Wi-Fi to improve operations.

Buses that provide the service are clearly marked. No login or registration is required to use the Wi-Fi, and it includes a filter, which the city says is to ensure its infrastructure is not used for "undesirable purposes."

According to the city, the pilot project costs $300,000 and does not affect Winnipeg Transit's current operating budget, as the money comes from the 2016 Innovation Capital Fund.