Telus, Rogers and Bell have reiterated their arguments opposing mandated MVNO access and stated that it would have negative consequences on the industry.
Carriers have sent in their final submissions for the CRTC’s review of mobile wireless services, and provided their final comments regarding mandated MVNO access.
Mobile virtual network operators are providers that don’t have an established network, and instead rent access to existing networks.
The national carriers are arguing that the Canadian mobile wireless industry is already competitive and that there isn’t a need for mandated MVNO access. The carriers say that facilities-based competition is the right policy and has worked so far.
Telus argues in its submission that mandated MVNOs would not bridge the digital divide that exists in parts of Canada, and that it would widen the gap. The carrier says that since MVNOs do not build networks, it would not expand coverage or service in rural Canada.
“Reduced network investment by MNOs as a result of mandated MVNO access is likely to manifest first in reductions in rural investment where the higher costs of building and maintaining networks generate lower returns,” the carrier argues.
Further, Bell argues in its final submission that mandating access for MVNOs would not improve outcomes for consumers.
“Attempts by other parties to identify benefits from mandated access for MVNOs have been extremely limited, and have not been relevant to a market like Canada with four facilities-based carriers, including a more recent entrant that is continuing to gain market share,” the carrier argues.
Bell states that MVNOs do not plan to introduce wireless service innovations that could benefit consumers or drive down costs over time.
In its submission, Rogers argues that regional carriers are rapidly strengthening their competitive positions and challenging the national carriers and already providing consumers with more choice.
“Each year since 2015, as many as six million customers have switched providers, demonstrating the intense rivalry that exists in the market,” the carrier notes.
Rogers argues that Vidéotron and Freedom have dramatically increased their subscriber bases, taking a disproportionate share of net new customer additions as they expand their networks. Rogers states that there is “clearly no need to impose artificial competition” through mandated MVNO access.
Further, the carriers argue that COVID-19 has significantly impacted Canada’s wireless telecommunications industry and that the pandemic will have long-lasting effects.
They state that now would be the worst time to burden the industry with MVNO regulation that would slow investment and introduce uncertainty.
Shaw Communications argues in its submission that mandated MVNO access will not only “prohibit competitive investment in areas that lack alternatives to the Big Three, it will impede the consumer benefits that are emerging in those other markets where the Big Three already face the resilient competitive pressure of regional disruptors.”
The Competition Bureau argues in its submission that a facilities-based MVNO model will enhance competition and accelerate the disruption of market power. It notes that broadening the eligibility criteria of the facilities-focused MVNO model may reduce regional carrier investment.
Opposing arguments from smaller carriers
TekSavvy argues in its submission that the current landscape of the mobile wireless market in Canada does not meet the needs of consumers, and that it is premature to consider imposing restrictions on any MVNO model.
“Certain benefits of an MVNO would include increased choice in wireless provider, better service for those in rural areas, more affordable plans for vulnerable populations and market offerings that would meet the needs of consumers,” the carrier outlines.
The carrier argues that the CRTC must mandate wholesale access to relieve the mobile wireless marketplace from dominant market power of the Big Three. It states that the COVID-19 pandemic has brought additional urgency to the matter.
Distributel notes in its final comments to the CRTC that the long-standing focus on facilities-based competition will not produce the competitive pressures needed to solve the issues in the retail wireless market identified by the commission.
“Mandated access to MVNO services could be utilized by both the non-national wireless carriers and service-based wireless providers to achieve the level of competition, innovation, differentiation, and choice in the retail market sought by the Commission,” the carrier notes.
Distributel says that the CRTC should take “a dim view” of the claims that mandating access to wholesale MVNO services will result in harm to investments by wireless carriers.
It’s interesting to note that around 60 percent of Canadians support new regulations that would require the Big Three to share their infrastructure with smaller providers to promote wireless competition, according to a report released by the Canadian Internet Registration Authority in February.
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.
