Next
Generation Network Evolution
TELUS announced the next step in its evolution towards
building a fourth generation (4G) wireless broadband network, the most advanced
mobile broadband network in Canada. This new wireless network, based on
the latest generation of High Speed Packet Access (HSPA) technology, will
enable TELUS to easily transition to long term evolution (LTE) technology,
the emerging worldwide LTE technology standard. The new network will 'futureproof'
our technology and position TELUS for an easy transition to LTE/4G technology.
Building will begin immediately and is expected to be complete by early
2010. When up and running, it will be one of the leading networks in the
world.
The addition of HSPA to Canada's largest high-speed network will enable
TELUS clients to take full advantage of the widest choice of wireless solutions
that best suit their needs. TELUS will have the ability to deliver the best
and latest devices, Smartphones and PDAs, regardless of technology. The
new network also will enable TELUS customers to experience enhanced international
roaming and continued superior wireless broadband performance. And of course
we will continue to offer our customers the best service possible.
With this announcement, TELUS continues to extend its leadership position in wireless and drive innovation for Canadians.
Network Evolution (HSPA): FAQs
Network Changes
Q: Why is TELUS adding a wireless network technology to its existing network capabilities?
A: The new HSPA will allow TELUS to offer services to its clients, such as enhanced international roaming, and access to the fastest network technologies available. It also enables TELUS to more easily transition to Long Term Evolution (LTE) technology, the emerging worldwide 4G technology standard. We have decided to further complement our CDMA and iDEN capabilities with HSPA as an intermediate step to ensure there are no gaps in our portfolio as the world converges from CDMA and HSPA paths to 4G/LTE over the longer term.
Q:
Is HSPA better than EVDO?
A: HSPA is our evolution from EVDO. Today, the technologies are very comparable but the next version of HSPA will improve upon EVDO's capabilities in terms of broadband speeds and potential applications. Hence our decision to move to HSPA ahead of the transition to LTE. TELUS' networks should provide clients with an unparalleled choice of services in Canada.
Impacts to Client's Coverage, Service and Rates
Q:
When will the build begin and when will it be complete?
A: The build will begin this summer and is scheduled to be completed by
early 2010. Much of the detailed planning for this project is well-underway or complete.
Q: How does this decision affect clients?
A: The addition of this new HSPA technology to TELUS existing network capabilities presents many rewards for Canadian consumers. TELUS clients will benefit from:
- The fastest, most advanced mobile network technologies
- A wider range of innovative, value-add data applications
- Greater access to the best selection of the latest wireless devices
- Enhanced international roaming service
Q: How does this affect TELUS' existing networks and services?
A: The new network will overlay our CDMA footprint providing full national coverage. TELUS will continue to operate and support its CDMA and iDEN, networks for the foreseeable future.
Q: Will the new network affect clients' existing coverage?
A: No. There will be no interruption in the network coverage currently experienced by our clients. TELUS will continue to provide national wireless services to areas covering more than 97% of Canadians.
Q: How will this build affect customer costs of TELUS services?
A: TELUS will continue to provide pricing for its wide range of products and services that reflect the very competitive Canadian market conditions.
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