Analysts are predicting that Telus Corp. will consider the move to GSM to remain competitive within the Canadian market. Telus, which operates a CDMA cellular network cannot currently offer the iPhone to its users since the iPhone only supports GSM, a standard widely supported in North America and overseas.
There were some predictions in the National Post (by Grant Surridge and Barbara Shecter) this morning that it could take Telus up to two years to build out a GSM network, at a believed cost of $400-$500M.
Although converting to GSM does not guarantee Telus anything in terms of revenue, it would certainly provide for more secure competitive footing when it comes to competing with Rogers over international roaming rates and handset availability.
As a consumer, the multiple choice is nice to have. LNP (local number portability) was supposed to be the great equalizer, but with a lack of Canadian carriers supporting GSM, the competitiveness LNP was supposed to promote has been lackluster.
Plus, who can say no to little green tree frogs and lizards? They sure make a compelling case for switching carriers.
UPDATE: Oct5/09: It appears that Bell and Telus will be in a position to finally offer the iPhone as early as next month. The Globe and Mail has the full story.
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I wonder how they are going to roll out GSM? Are they just converting their towers or will they be leasing space from Rogers/Fido?
telus and bell have been working on their own towers creating a gsm network called hspa. but rogers has been upgrading their towers in response
veery cool
I just bought the Iphone from Telus, my phone hasn’t worked yet, no incoming outgoing calls, no text messages, I haven’t been able to use my brand new phone yet. I talked to the telus store and they said they need to get the problems worked out with their new network. The problem is, they take your money up front, and expect me to pay each month, but I haven’t been able to use one service… Now im stuck in a contract for three years, my phone services don’t work AT ALL! Just a WARNING to all who are looking to get one! they aren’t ready for the iphone yet, They pushed it out so fast, now me and a whole line up are sitting out side not knowing what to do with our useless, expensive phones!
With pricing and service, Telus has better customer service by far. Unlike Bell you do not spend an hour on the phone WAITING for rep. Same with Rogers, Telus customer service always tries to HELP you, and not BLAME you like Rogers does. I also agree with Mike S, Rogers recontracts its clients when doing rate plan changes and Telus will help you find the best plan you need. The difference between Rogers and Telus is that Telus tailors to your needs, they ask you questions so you dont pay for things you don’t need. For example, airtime and plan features. Rogers TELLS YOU what you need. And Bell, seemingly, do eenie meenie minie moe.
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