Rogers Communications launch 5G services in five new cities
Rogers Communications customers in more than 60 Canadian cities will have access to greater bandwidth and download speeds. In fact, on September 22, 2020, the telecommunications operator announced it launched 5G technology in Ajax, Burlington, Grimsby, Oakville and Whitby, Ontario, according to GlobeNewswire.
Jorge Fernandes, Chief Technology and Information Officer, Rogers Communications said, “5G is a gamechanger that will bring exciting experiences and opportunities to consumers and businesses across Ontario”. Moreover, he added, “This transformative technology now offered to residents… will fuel productivity and innovation to help grow Ontario’s economy. As we continue to roll out 5G to additional Canadian markets, we are focused on building our robust 5G ecosystem with strategic investments, world-class partners, and cutting-edge technology that will bring the best of connectivity to Canadians”, according to GlobeNewswire.
Hon. Rod Phillips, Ontario’s Minister of Finance and MPP for Ajax said, “COVID-19 has highlighted the urgent need to expand Ontario’s digital economy.” And he added, “All of us, including my constituents in Ajax, have relied on technology to stay in touch with their loved ones, work, or keep small businesses operating while our province navigates the global pandemic. Expanding 5G will benefit people across Ontario and help set up our province to succeed in the economy of the future”, according to the same source.
Rogers Communications introduced wireless services to Canada in 1985. Back to January 16, 2020, the operator announced the official activation of Canada’s 5G network. Powered by Ericsson, the telecommunications provider has the largest 5G network in Canada while using 2.5GHz, AWS, and 600 MHz spectrum. According to Telecompaper, 2 million Canadians are now on Rogers Infinite and Unlimited data plans.
Strong 5G infrastructure is crucial to innovation and the digital economy especially amid the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic. According to a report published by Accenture Strategy entitled, “Accelerating 5G in Canada-Benefits for Cities and Rural Communities”, 5G is expected to contribute around $40 billion to Canada’s economy while creating 250000 permanent new jobs by 2026. The report also mentions the importance of the deployment of 5G connectivity for a wide range of applications including transportation, healthcare, agriculture, energy, and waste management.
Rogers Communications’ 5G ecosystem includes strategic partnerships to research, incubate, and commercialize the 5G network in Canada. These partnerships include, The University of British Columbia, the University of Waterloo, Communitech, Ryerson University Rogers Cybersecure Catalyst, and ENCQOR, states GlobeNewswire.