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Quebecor unveils 3G wireless service
10 September 2010
Canadian media group Quebecor is launching HSPA+ services across Québec via its Videotron cable subsidiary
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Videotron, the cable arm of Canadian operator Quebecor, has announced its 3G wireless service. The offering will be initially limited to the province of Québec.
The Montréal-based communications company expects to spend between $777 million and $968 million and hire more than 600 employees for the network. Videotron paid more than $500 million in 2008 to Industry Canada to secure wireless licences covering Québec.
Videotron, which in 2005 became the first major Canadian cable company to offer residential landline telephony via cable, will compete with phone companies including Telus, Bell Canada and Rogers Communications.
Videotron CEO Robert Dépatie said that the company’s 3G network will run at 21 megabits, with a planned increase to 42 megabits using dual-carrier HSPA+. The company is reported to use Nokia Siemens Networks kit.
“Videotron's 3G+ service reflects the goal we have pursued throughout this project: providing the best possible customer experience through one-stop shopping to make life easier for consumers,” he said. “Not only is our offering highly advantageous in this respect but it is particularly attractive for our existing customers, who can get exceptional rates. We remain true to our policy of offering substantial discounts to customers who choose our service bundles.”
Videotron, which will also offer two BlackBerry models, including the Bold 9700, is providing unlimited local calling with the new service and is targeting households as well as small and medium-sized businesses.
Quebecor will also offer subsidised devices on contracts up to three years or unsubsidized smartphones unattached to term contracts. GTB