With Monday’s solar eclipse expected to draw tens of thousands to regions along the path of totality in Eastern Canada, major cellphone and internet providers say they’re ready to handle a surge in wireless traffic in those areas.
Cities such as Niagara Falls, Ont., and Montreal have been bracing for an influx of tourists this weekend as people hope to catch a glimpse — through their special protective glasses — of the phenomenon Monday afternoon. The rare alignment of the sun, Earth and moon means other cities and towns in Ontario, Quebec andthe Atlantic provincescould also see unusually high visitor levels.
“As with any large event that brings high levels of visitation into a concentrated area, it is possible that cell signal may be compromised,” the City of Niagara Falls said in a post on its website.
The city said it is expecting up to one million visitors over the coming days which would be “by far, the largest crowd we’ve ever experienced.” In the post, it warned local businesses that visitors may have urgent requests to use their landline phones if cell service becomes spotty.
But Canada’s largest telecommunications carriers say they have been preparing for the eclipse and are confident their networks will hold up.
Rogers Communications Inc., BCE Inc. and Telus Corp. said they would deploy additional infrastructure to certain areas to prevent any potential disruptions. For Rogers and Bell, that includes using portable mobile towers, known as Cell on Wheels, or COWs, to increase capacity.
The companies also said their technical teams would pause routine maintenance work that could potentially reduce service levels.
“This is a once-in-a-lifetime moment for many Canadians and we are getting ready to handle the potential increase in wireless traffic in communities along the path of totality,” said Rogers spokesman Cam Gordon in a statement.
“We have also conducted network health checks, completed targeted upgrades and are optimizing sites to add more capacity.”
Bell spokeswoman Jacqueline Michelis said a dedicated team would monitor network performance throughout Monday.
“In preparation for the solar eclipse, our teams are putting measures in place to ensure the network continues to run optimally in regions where we anticipate large crowds to gather,” she said in a statement.
Enhancing network capacity by deploying portable cell sites is one of the most effective ways that telecom companies can prepare for increased demand, said Manav Gupta, chief technology officer and Canada technical sales team lead at IBM Canada.
He said Cell on Wheels “can quickly provide additional coverage and capacity where needed.”
“Providers will want to prepare for a network traffic surge resulting from people using telecommunications services more heavily during the event by, for example, streaming the eclipse, sharing content on social media or making calls,” said Gupta.
Unlike its two largest competitors, Telus doesn’t need to deploy Cell on Wheels, said spokeswoman Jacinthe Beaulieu. She said Telus has made “massive investments in our network” in recent years that will allow it to offer increased capacity on Monday.
“Our infrastructure can support the increased number of visitors that is expected during the eclipse,” she said.
Beaulieu said Telus held internal preparedness calls and was in touch with public safety and government officials leading up to the eclipse. It has a “contingency and emergency response process” ready in case there are issues Monday.
Quebecor Inc. said in a statement that the “strength and robustness of our network should ensure continuity of wireless service” on eclipse day for all Videotron, Freedom Mobile and Fizz subscribers. But it added it would monitor the situation before and during the eclipse and “intervene quickly if necessary.”
“Please keep in mind that the eclipse itself has no effect on telecom networks, unlike a solar flare which can affect airwaves and electronic equipment,” the company said in an unattributed statement.
“It should also be noted that the total eclipse route will distribute potential viewing sites over a relatively large area, reducing the risk of network congestion. However, temporary slowdowns remain possible if larger-than-expected crowds materialize at certain locations.”
The Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake said those in the area should “consider developing a communication plan with family and friends ahead of time, and ensure your phone is fully charged for the day of the eclipse.”
“If you regularly use cash or want some on hand, consider visiting your local bank or ATM beforehand,” the town noted on its website. “Due to increased cellular traffic, some ATMs that operate on Wi-Fi may be unavailable.”
Although phone signals and internet connections are not directly affected by solar eclipses, which do not emit radiation or energies that disrupt electromagnetic waves, Gupta said they could cause “minor disruptions” to satellite communications. This could potentially affect signals related to GPS and, to a lesser extent, cellular networks due to atmospheric change.
“My advice would be, as with any noteworthy events, to proactively plan for the worst,” said Gupta.
“Gathering data, developing a strategy, and preparing for any potential issues is sound practice no matter what the challenge or issue may be.”
This report by The Canadian Press was first published April 5, 2024.
Companies in this story: (TSX:RCI.B, TSX:BCE, TSX:T, TSX:QBR.B)
With Monday’s solar eclipse expected to draw thousands to regions along the path of totality in Eastern Canada, major cellphone and internet providers say they’re ready to handle a jolt in wireless traffic in those areas. Eagles fly past a partial solar eclipse in New Delhi, India, Tuesday, Oct. 25, 2022. THE CANADIAN PRESS/AP-Altaf Qadri
CHICAGO (AP) — United Airlines has struck a deal with Elon Musk’s SpaceX to offer satellite-based Starlink WiFi service on flights within the next several years.
The airline said Friday the service will be free to passengers.
United said it will begin testing the service early next year and begin offering it on some flights by later in 2025.
Financial details of the deal were not disclosed.
The announcement comes as airlines rush to offer more amenities as a way to stand out when passengers pick a carrier for a trip. United’s goal is to make sitting on a plane pretty much like being on the ground when it comes to browsing the internet, streaming entertainment and playing games.
“Everything you can do on the ground, you’ll soon be able to do on board a United plane at 35,000 feet, just about anywhere in the world,” CEO Scott Kirby said in announcing the deal.
The airline says Starlink will allow passengers to get internet access even over oceans and polar regions where traditional cell or Wi-Fi signals may be weak or missing.
Sony has made it easy for Canadian consumers to preorder the PlayStation 5 Pro in Canada directly from PlayStation’s official website. Here’s how:
Visit the Official Website: Go to direct.playstation.com and navigate to the PS5 Pro section once preorders go live on September 26, 2024.
Create or Log in to Your PlayStation Account: If you don’t have a PlayStation account, you will need to create one. Existing users can simply log in to proceed.
Place Your Preorder: Once logged in, follow the instructions to preorder your PS5 Pro. Ensure you have a valid payment method ready and double-check your shipping information for accuracy.
Preorder Through Major Canadian Retailers
While preordering directly from PlayStation is a popular option, you can also secure your PS5 Pro through trusted Canadian retailers. These retailers are expected to offer preorders on or after September 26:
Best Buy Canada
Walmart Canada
EB Games (GameStop)
Amazon Canada
The Source
Steps to Preorder via Canadian Retailers:
Visit Retailer Websites: Search for “PlayStation 5 Pro” on the website of your preferred retailer starting on September 26.
Create or Log in to Your Account: If you’re shopping online, having an account with the retailer can speed up the preorder process.
Preorder in Store: For those who prefer in-person shopping, check with local stores regarding availability and preorder policies.
3. Sign Up for Notifications
Many retailers and websites offer the option to sign up for notifications when the preorder goes live. If you’re worried about missing out due to high demand, this can be a useful option.
Visit Retailer Sites: Look for a “Notify Me” or “Email Alerts” option and enter your email to stay informed.
Use PlayStation Alerts: Sign up for notifications directly through Sony to be one of the first to know when preorders are available.
4. Prepare for High Demand
Preordering the PS5 Pro is expected to be competitive, with high demand likely to result in quick sellouts, just as with the initial release of the original PS5. To maximize your chances of securing a preorder:
Act Quickly: Be prepared to place your order as soon as preorders open. Timing is key, as stock can run out within minutes.
Double-Check Payment Information: Ensure your credit card or payment method is ready to go. Any delays during the checkout process could result in losing your spot.
Stay Informed: Monitor PlayStation and retailer websites for updates on restocks or additional preorder windows.
Final Thoughts
The PlayStation 5 Pro is set to take gaming to the next level with its enhanced performance, graphics, and new features. Canadian gamers should be ready to act fast when preorders open on September 26, 2024, to secure their console ahead of the holiday season. Whether you choose to preorder through PlayStation’s official website or your preferred retailer, following the steps outlined above will help ensure a smooth and successful preorder experience.
For more details on the PS5 Pro and to preorder, visit direct.playstation.com or stay tuned to updates from major Canadian retailers.
Since the PlayStation 5 (PS5) launched four years ago, PlayStation has continuously evolved to meet the demands of its players. Today, we are excited to announce the next step in this journey: the PlayStation 5 Pro. Designed for the most dedicated players and game creators, the PS5 Pro brings groundbreaking advancements in gaming hardware, raising the bar for what’s possible.
Key Features of the PS5 Pro
The PS5 Pro comes equipped with several key performance enhancements, addressing the requests of gamers for smoother, higher-quality graphics at a consistent 60 frames per second (FPS). The console’s standout features include:
Upgraded GPU: The PS5 Pro’s GPU boasts 67% more Compute Units than the current PS5, combined with 28% faster memory. This allows for up to 45% faster rendering speeds, ensuring a smoother gaming experience.
Advanced Ray Tracing: Ray tracing capabilities have been significantly enhanced, with reflections and refractions of light being processed at double or triple the speed of the current PS5, creating more dynamic visuals.
AI-Driven Upscaling: Introducing PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution, an AI-based upscaling technology that adds extraordinary detail to images, resulting in sharper image clarity.
Backward Compatibility & Game Boost: More than 8,500 PS4 games playable on PS5 Pro will benefit from PS5 Pro Game Boost, stabilizing or enhancing performance. PS4 games will also see improved resolution on select titles.
VRR & 8K Support: The PS5 Pro supports Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and 8K gaming for the ultimate visual experience, while also launching with the latest wireless technology, Wi-Fi 7, in supported regions.
Optimized Games & Patches
Game creators have quickly embraced the new technology that comes with the PS5 Pro. Many games will receive free updates to take full advantage of the console’s new features, labeled as PS5 Pro Enhanced. Some of the highly anticipated titles include:
Alan Wake 2
Assassin’s Creed: Shadows
Demon’s Souls
Dragon’s Dogma 2
Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth
Gran Turismo 7
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2
Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart
Horizon Forbidden West
These updates will allow players to experience their favorite games at a higher fidelity, taking full advantage of the console’s improved graphics and performance.
Design & Compatibility
Maintaining consistency within the PS5 family, the PS5 Pro retains the same height and width as the original PS5 model. Players will also have the option to add an Ultra HD Blu-ray Disc Drive or swap console covers when available.
Additionally, the PS5 Pro is fully compatible with all existing PS5 accessories, including the PlayStation VR2, DualSense Edge, Pulse Elite, and Access controller. This ensures seamless integration into your current gaming setup.
Pricing & Availability
The PS5 Pro will be available starting November 7, 2024, at a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of:
$699.99 USD
$949.99 CAD
£699.99 GBP
€799.99 EUR
¥119,980 JPY
Each PS5 Pro comes with a 2TB SSD, a DualSense wireless controller, and a copy of Astro’s Playroom pre-installed. Pre-orders begin on September 26, 2024, and the console will be available at participating retailers and directly from PlayStation via direct.playstation.com.
The launch of the PS5 Pro marks a new chapter in PlayStation’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge gaming experiences. Whether players choose the standard PS5 or the PS5 Pro, PlayStation aims to provide the best possible gaming experience for everyone.
Preorder your PS5 Pro and step into the next generation of gaming this holiday season.
