Normally, when we think next generation communications, we think 5G, as it's the real next generation. However, that's still about three years off or so, depending on what press releases you consult. So for now, we focus on LTE (News - Alert) service, and so too is Freedom Mobile, who's stepping up such service in Calgary and Edmonton.
With the new Freedom Mobile expansion, citizens of Calgary and Edmonton get access to the fullest range of current next generation communications services, including faster overall speeds as well as download speeds, along with smoother video streaming, which is vital to the entire concept of streaming video.
This won't just be a step up for the network, either, as reports note that Freedom Mobile will also have plenty of LTE-ready handsets on hand as well, giving users access to Freedom Mobile's array of data plans. Plus, the company also plans further expansions to its LTE network, with a complete rollout ready for the end of 2017. There's even complimentary access to Freedom Wi-Fi, a trial service that allows users to access data at a variety of hotspots—currently numbering better than 65,000 total—throughout Western Canada.
Freedom Mobile's chief operating officer Paul McAleese commented, “Canadians have told us that providing them with reliable network coverage that offers enhanced speeds and faster downloads at a fair and reasonable price is a priority for them, and we've listened. The launch of our powerful new LTE network furthers our commitment to providing Freedom Mobile customers in Calgary and Edmonton access to the same enhanced experience that those in the Greater Toronto Area, Southern Ontario and the Greater Vancouver Area currently enjoy.”
It's easy to wonder here if Freedom Mobile may have solved the wrong problem. While it's true that 5G is still three years off or so—which leaves three years' worth of operations to take care of—how many people are going to buy an LTE-capable handset knowing that an improved next generation communications system is just down the road? Though admittedly, Freedom Mobile may not be offering 5G access for some time—if it's just now getting LTE to some places it's clear that three year launch data means next to nothing here—it's still potentially the kind of solution that customers won't want to see.
Still, the launch of 5G is quite a ways out, and even the major providers like AT&T (News - Alert) and T-Mobile won't be ready to go for some time now. With 5G availability, though, it may not be long before Freedom Mobile's big new step in network offerings looks less like freedom and more like new shackles.
Edited by Alicia Young