Rogers Wireless
Encyclopedia
Rogers Wireless is a wireless telecommunications provider
offering mobile phone
and data services throughout Canada using Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) and Universal Mobile Telecommunications System
(UMTS) technology. It is a wholly owned subsidiary
of Rogers Communications
. As of Q2 2011, Rogers is Canada's largest cellphone provider with a subscriber base of over 9.1 million, including over 7.4 million or 81% on postpaid and over 1.6 million or 17% on prepaid.
The operator currently operates 3GPP Long Term Evolution
(LTE), High Speed Packet Access
(HSPA) and GSM networks in Canada.
(AMPS) network, and later moved to the IS-136 standard before finally introducing a GSM network in 2001. At various times the service was sold under the names Cantel, Cantel AT&T, Rogers Cantel AT&T, and Rogers AT&T Wireless. Their network is GSM standard with development currently focused on UMTS
, High-Speed Downlink Packet Access
(HSDPA), and EUL service. Both the AMPS and IS-136 networks have been decommissioned; they were shut down on May 31, 2007.
Before the Rogers acquisition, the wireless business was known as Cantel Communications and Cantel AT&T.
serves 95% of the Canadian population. It provides compatibility for GSM-based devices, including those frequently used by international travelers. However, this technology is limited to speeds of 120 kilobits per second, which is only twice the speed of dial-up.
network. This was an upgrade to the older HSPA infrastructure, which was previously the only such network in Canada. This was no longer the case when Telus and Bell created two separate HSPA+ networks, with some roaming agreements between the two. Just as Rogers continues to maintain their older GSM network, Bell and Telus still support their respective CDMA networks. This is a different technology which is losing worldwide popularity, as it offers less roaming possibilities.
In the summer of 2009, the network was upgraded to HSPA+ technology. Enhancements include download speeds of up to a theoretical 21.6 Mbit/s.
This network operates on the frequencies of 850/1900 MHz. Although Bell and Telus operate HSPA+ networks separate from Rogers, they transmit using the same frequencies.
, Montréal
and Vancouver
. Rogers was the first LTE network in the two latter cities, while in Toronto, they are the second such network because Bell Mobility
was the first. Theoretical maximum speeds for the network are currently 100 Mbit/s for download and 70 Mbit/s for upload. Typical download speeds range from 12 to 25 Mbit/s. LTE Internet modems can currently be bought in Ottawa or pre-ordered for the aforementioned cities. Such devices have a maximum theoretical speed of 100 Mbit/s for downloads and 50 Mbit/s for uploads.
Rogers maintains a site called I Want My LTE! which keeps users updated on the company's LTE updates. They are currently asking Canadians to "act fast" by writing to parliament members in support of Rogers during the 700 Mhz LTE auction:
However, Michael Geist
and many new entrants opposed this petition, claiming that its goal is to eliminate competition. Mobilicity
created a parody of Rogers' LTE petition, while Wind Mobile
chairman and CEO Anthony Lacavera wrote a blog post titled "The Battle Continues: Keeping Up the Fight for Competition" in which he says:
Rogers' LTE service has also been criticized, because it costs more than most HSPA+ offerings from competitors and even Rogers itself. In response, the company launched a 10 GB LTE plan for $52.93. It is a limited time offer and requires a 3-year contract.
, LG
, Motorola
, Nokia
, RIM
, Samsung
, Sony Ericsson
, and ZTE
.
Rogers and its subsidiary Fido
were the first Canadian carriers to carry the Apple iPhone
3G and 3GS in Canada. The inaugural iPhone launch was on July 11, 2008. The device was exclusive to Rogers for nearly four months, until Bell Mobility
became the second Canadian carrier to carry iPhones, ending the brand exclusivity of Rogers and Fido. Telus Mobility
began to carry iPhones on November 5, 2009.
Rogers also currently sells the BlackBerry Bold
, the BlackBerry Curve
and the BlackBerry Torch
. On June 2, 2009 the company launched the first Google Android-powered devices in Canada, the HTC Dream
and the HTC Magic
. On November 8, 2010 Rogers also launched Windows Phone 7
devices like the Samsung Focus
.
AirCard® 313U, known as the "LTE Rocket™ stick" by the provider. Shortly thereafter, the HTC Jetstream
tablet computer
was released. Both devices support up to 100 Mbit/s downloads and 50 Mbit/s uploads on the LTE network, while also supporting the older HSPA+ and GSM networks.
Later, the company plans to launch the "Sierra Wireless AirCard 754S", also known as the "LTE Rocket mobile hotspot" and similar to the MiFi
. Rogers will also launch the Samsung Galaxy S II LTE.
A large majority of the Rogers' customer base uses its GSM/GPRS/EDGE
network, but the main focus for development and new customers has been on its UMTS/HSDPA/EUL network. Rogers Wireless claims to be the only Canadian Wireless Provider to offer a complete, independent coast-to-coast network spanning all Canadian regions excluding the Territories.
Rogers Wireless offers the following Wireless Business Applications to its customers:
Mindit Assist, AskMeNow
, Sales Anywhere, NewsClip, bbTV, FPinfomart Mobile, Connection Manager, eOffice.
, BlackBerry
or Android smartphone
can use the Rogers On Demand Mobile service. The iPhone version requires iOS 3.0 or later. Rogers also offered live streaming of the 2010 FIFA World Cup
during the event. Unlike its competitor Bell Mobility
, which widely advertises its Bell Mobile TV service, Rogers does not offer mobile television featuring live channels like those found on Rogers Cable
.
Rogers pricing plans for the iPhone have been noted in print media both in Canada and internationally, and online. The online critics allege price gouging
and use of Rogers' monopoly on the iPhone. However, the majority of the current criticism is directed toward the monthly data limit for the iPhone device, given the availability of unlimited plans in the United States. Rogers had introduced a "$30 for 6GB" data plan., which was discontinued September 30, 2008. After the release of the iPhone 3GS, on June 19, 2009, they re-introduced this offer on a limited time basis. In 2011, this option returned during that year's back-to-school season.
As of July 7, 2009, Rogers Wireless charges 15 cents for incoming text messages to customers without a text messaging plan. The change does not affect the Fido Solutions
brand. The change is similar to policies of charging for incoming text message that were adopted in August 2008 by Bell Mobility
and Telus Mobility
. Some users have complained that Rogers has unilaterally changed the terms of their contracts. The company maintains that changes to services and fees are permitted in the "terms of service" document.
Prices for Internet access on Rogers' LTE network, launched in the summer of 2011, have also been criticized by Micheal Geist and many potential customers interested in this recent technology. The flexible rate starts at $47.93/month, which includes the Government Regulatory Recovery Fee
(GRRF) and up to 2 GB of data transfer. The previous limit, however, was only 1½ GB. Such a plan costs more and offers less than Rogers' $37.93/month prepaid iPad
mobile Internet plan, which includes the GRRF and up to 5 GB of data transfer. Rogers currently has a promotional plan costing $52.93/month, including the GRRF and up to 10 GB of Internet access. This plan, however, is only available to those who sign a three-year contract.
, Mobilicity
and Public Mobile
. Chatr was criticized for being a fighter brand
created by Rogers. Also, this brand's "fewer dropped calls" claim was disputed, and even proven to be false.
, Future Shop
and Walmart stores in Canada provide Fido products along with prepaid and postpaid services. Additionally, Loblaw Companies
and Zellers
stores sell prepaid feature phone
s and top-up vouchers. Loblaw stores have a special booth, called The Mobile Shop, where the phones are displayed.
While Shoppers Drug Mart
carried only Rogers Wireless prepaid phones at one time, the stores temporarily partnered with Rogers. As a result, Shoppers stores added both prepaid and postpaid products and services for Rogers and its two other brands, Fido
and Chatr
. Customers could also try out the iPhone 4
. As of March 2011, however, Shoppers stores ended their partnership. They only sell prepaid top-up vouchers for these providers.
, re-branding it in 2008 as a discount network operator with a new logo and a limited selection of phones, consisting mostly of feature phone
s but including a few smartphone
s.
In mid-2010, in response to the emergence of several new phone carriers Rogers released Chatr
wireless. It is a discount brand aimed to directly compete with the new carriers in their coverage areas. Chatr's device selection is similar to, but has fewer option than, Fido's. The new carriers, specifically Mobilicity
, claimed that Chatr is a "fighter brand" released by Rogers to drive them out of business.
Mobile network operator
A mobile network operator , also known as mobile phone operator , carrier service provider , wireless service provider, wireless carrier, or cellular company, or mobile network carrier is a telephone company that provides services for mobile phone subscribers.One essential...
offering mobile phone
Mobile phone
A mobile phone is a device which can make and receive telephone calls over a radio link whilst moving around a wide geographic area. It does so by connecting to a cellular network provided by a mobile network operator...
and data services throughout Canada using Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) and Universal Mobile Telecommunications System
Universal Mobile Telecommunications System
Universal Mobile Telecommunications System is a third generation mobile cellular technology for networks based on the GSM standard. Developed by the 3GPP , UMTS is a component of the International Telecommunications Union IMT-2000 standard set and compares with the CDMA2000 standard set for...
(UMTS) technology. It is a wholly owned subsidiary
Subsidiary
A subsidiary company, subsidiary, or daughter company is a company that is completely or partly owned and wholly controlled by another company that owns more than half of the subsidiary's stock. The subsidiary can be a company, corporation, or limited liability company. In some cases it is a...
of Rogers Communications
Rogers Communications
Rogers Communications Inc. is one of Canada's largest communications companies, particularly in the field of wireless communications, cable television, home phone and internet with additional telecommunications and mass media assets...
. As of Q2 2011, Rogers is Canada's largest cellphone provider with a subscriber base of over 9.1 million, including over 7.4 million or 81% on postpaid and over 1.6 million or 17% on prepaid.
The operator currently operates 3GPP Long Term Evolution
3GPP Long Term Evolution
3GPP Long Term Evolution, usually referred to as LTE, is a standard for wireless communication of high-speed data for mobile phones and data terminals. It is based on the GSM/EDGE and UMTS/HSPA network technologies, increasing the capacity and speed using new modulation techniques...
(LTE), High Speed Packet Access
High Speed Packet Access
High Speed Packet Access is an amalgamation of two mobile telephony protocols, High Speed Downlink Packet Access and High Speed Uplink Packet Access , that extends and improves the performance of existing WCDMA protocols...
(HSPA) and GSM networks in Canada.
History
Rogers began with an Advanced Mobile Phone SystemAdvanced Mobile Phone System
Advanced Mobile Phone System was an analog mobile phone system standard developed by Bell Labs, and officially introduced in the Americas in 1983, Israel in 1986, and Australia in 1987. It was the primary analog mobile phone system in North America through the 1980s and into the 2000s...
(AMPS) network, and later moved to the IS-136 standard before finally introducing a GSM network in 2001. At various times the service was sold under the names Cantel, Cantel AT&T, Rogers Cantel AT&T, and Rogers AT&T Wireless. Their network is GSM standard with development currently focused on UMTS
Universal Mobile Telecommunications System
Universal Mobile Telecommunications System is a third generation mobile cellular technology for networks based on the GSM standard. Developed by the 3GPP , UMTS is a component of the International Telecommunications Union IMT-2000 standard set and compares with the CDMA2000 standard set for...
, High-Speed Downlink Packet Access
High-Speed Downlink Packet Access
High-Speed Downlink Packet Access is an enhanced 3G mobile telephony communications protocol in the High-Speed Packet Access family, also dubbed 3.5G, 3G+ or turbo 3G, which allows networks based on Universal Mobile Telecommunications System to have higher data transfer speeds and capacity...
(HSDPA), and EUL service. Both the AMPS and IS-136 networks have been decommissioned; they were shut down on May 31, 2007.
Before the Rogers acquisition, the wireless business was known as Cantel Communications and Cantel AT&T.
Networks
Rogers operates three different kinds of networks in Canada. They offer a GSM network from coast to coast in Canada's provinces, and an HSPA+ network with newer technology but slightly less coverage. Additionally, Rogers is launching LTE networks in select metropolitan regions throughout Canada.GSM
The company's 2G GSM network with EDGEEnhanced Data Rates for GSM Evolution
Enhanced Data rates for GSM Evolution is a digital mobile phone technology that allows improved data transmission rates as a backward-compatible extension of GSM...
serves 95% of the Canadian population. It provides compatibility for GSM-based devices, including those frequently used by international travelers. However, this technology is limited to speeds of 120 kilobits per second, which is only twice the speed of dial-up.
HSPA+
In addition to its 2G network, Rogers also operates a pre-4G HSPA+Evolved HSPA
HSPA+, or Evolved High-Speed Packet Access, is a technical standard for wireless, broadband telecommunication. HSPA+ was first defined in the technical standard 3GPP release 7....
network. This was an upgrade to the older HSPA infrastructure, which was previously the only such network in Canada. This was no longer the case when Telus and Bell created two separate HSPA+ networks, with some roaming agreements between the two. Just as Rogers continues to maintain their older GSM network, Bell and Telus still support their respective CDMA networks. This is a different technology which is losing worldwide popularity, as it offers less roaming possibilities.
In the summer of 2009, the network was upgraded to HSPA+ technology. Enhancements include download speeds of up to a theoretical 21.6 Mbit/s.
This network operates on the frequencies of 850/1900 MHz. Although Bell and Telus operate HSPA+ networks separate from Rogers, they transmit using the same frequencies.
LTE
The first such network in Canada, Rogers launched Canada's first LTE network in Ottawa on July 7, 2011. The company organized a flash mob celebrating this event prior to their formal announcement. While they claim that this technology is "beyond 4G", On September 27, 2011, Rogers activated LTE in TorontoToronto
Toronto is the provincial capital of Ontario and the largest city in Canada. It is located in Southern Ontario on the northwestern shore of Lake Ontario. A relatively modern city, Toronto's history dates back to the late-18th century, when its land was first purchased by the British monarchy from...
, Montréal
Montreal
Montreal is a city in Canada. It is the largest city in the province of Quebec, the second-largest city in Canada and the seventh largest in North America...
and Vancouver
Vancouver
Vancouver is a coastal seaport city on the mainland of British Columbia, Canada. It is the hub of Greater Vancouver, which, with over 2.3 million residents, is the third most populous metropolitan area in the country,...
. Rogers was the first LTE network in the two latter cities, while in Toronto, they are the second such network because Bell Mobility
Bell Mobility
Bell Mobility is a CDMA and HSPA+ based wireless network and the division of Bell Canada which sells wireless services in Canada...
was the first. Theoretical maximum speeds for the network are currently 100 Mbit/s for download and 70 Mbit/s for upload. Typical download speeds range from 12 to 25 Mbit/s. LTE Internet modems can currently be bought in Ottawa or pre-ordered for the aforementioned cities. Such devices have a maximum theoretical speed of 100 Mbit/s for downloads and 50 Mbit/s for uploads.
Rogers maintains a site called I Want My LTE! which keeps users updated on the company's LTE updates. They are currently asking Canadians to "act fast" by writing to parliament members in support of Rogers during the 700 Mhz LTE auction:
However, Michael Geist
Michael Geist
Michael Allen Geist is a Canadian academic, and the Canada Research Chair in Internet and E-Commerce Law at the University of Ottawa. Geist was educated at the University of Western Ontario where he received his Bachelors of Laws before going on to get his Masters of Laws at both Osgoode Hall Law...
and many new entrants opposed this petition, claiming that its goal is to eliminate competition. Mobilicity
Mobilicity
Mobilicity is a Canadian wireless telecommunications provider. Its name is a portmanteau of the words "mobility" and "simplicity".-History:...
created a parody of Rogers' LTE petition, while Wind Mobile
Wind Mobile
Wind Mobile is a Canadian wireless telecommunications provider operated by Globalive Communications Corporation. The company initially launched mobile data and voice services in Toronto on December 16, 2009 and two days later in Calgary...
chairman and CEO Anthony Lacavera wrote a blog post titled "The Battle Continues: Keeping Up the Fight for Competition" in which he says:
Rogers' LTE service has also been criticized, because it costs more than most HSPA+ offerings from competitors and even Rogers itself. In response, the company launched a 10 GB LTE plan for $52.93. It is a limited time offer and requires a 3-year contract.
Products
Rogers Wireless carries phones made by Apple, HPHewlett-Packard
Hewlett-Packard Company or HP is an American multinational information technology corporation headquartered in Palo Alto, California, USA that provides products, technologies, softwares, solutions and services to consumers, small- and medium-sized businesses and large enterprises, including...
, LG
LG Group
LG Corp. is the second-largest South Korean conglomerate company following Samsung, and it is headquartered in the LG Twin Towers in Yeouido-dong, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul. LG produces electronics, chemicals, and telecommunications products and operates subsidiaries like LG Electronics, LG Display,...
, Motorola
Motorola
Motorola, Inc. was an American multinational telecommunications company based in Schaumburg, Illinois, which was eventually divided into two independent public companies, Motorola Mobility and Motorola Solutions on January 4, 2011, after losing $4.3 billion from 2007 to 2009...
, Nokia
Nokia
Nokia Corporation is a Finnish multinational communications corporation that is headquartered in Keilaniemi, Espoo, a city neighbouring Finland's capital Helsinki...
, RIM
Research In Motion
Research In Motion Limited or RIM is a Canadian multinational telecommunications company headquartered in Waterloo, Ontario, Canada that designs, manufactures and markets wireless solutions for the worldwide mobile communications market...
, Samsung
Samsung Group
The Samsung Group is a South Korean multinational conglomerate corporation headquartered in Samsung Town, Seoul, South Korea...
, Sony Ericsson
Sony Ericsson
Sony Ericsson Mobile Communications AB is a joint venture established on October 1, 2001 by the Japanese consumer electronics company Sony Corporation and the Swedish telecommunications company Ericsson to manufacture mobile phones....
, and ZTE
ZTE
ZTE Corporation formerly Zhongxing Telecommunication Equipment Corporation is a Chinese multinational telecommunications equipment and systems company headquartered in Shenzhen, China...
.
Rogers and its subsidiary Fido
Fido Solutions
Fido Solutions is a Canadian cellular telephone service provider currently owned by Rogers Communications. It was formerly owned by Microcell Telecommunications. Fido does, however, remain a separate entity from Rogers...
were the first Canadian carriers to carry the Apple iPhone
IPhone
The iPhone is a line of Internet and multimedia-enabled smartphones marketed by Apple Inc. The first iPhone was unveiled by Steve Jobs, then CEO of Apple, on January 9, 2007, and released on June 29, 2007...
3G and 3GS in Canada. The inaugural iPhone launch was on July 11, 2008. The device was exclusive to Rogers for nearly four months, until Bell Mobility
Bell Mobility
Bell Mobility is a CDMA and HSPA+ based wireless network and the division of Bell Canada which sells wireless services in Canada...
became the second Canadian carrier to carry iPhones, ending the brand exclusivity of Rogers and Fido. Telus Mobility
Telus Mobility
Telus Mobility is a division of Telus Communications which sells wireless services in Canada on its numerous networks. They currently have three different networks based on three different technologies: CDMA and HSPA+ on its mainstream networks, plus iDEN via its Mike division...
began to carry iPhones on November 5, 2009.
Rogers also currently sells the BlackBerry Bold
BlackBerry Bold
The BlackBerry Bold 9000 is a line of smartphones developed by Research in Motion. The family includes the 9000 , the 9700 , the 9650 and 9780, both of which were released in 2010, 9788 released in 2011 and the 9900/9930, the first touchscreen Bold, released in August 2011...
, the BlackBerry Curve
BlackBerry Curve
BlackBerry Curve is a brand of entry level smartphones manufactured by Research In Motion since 2007.-Curve 8300 Series:The BlackBerry Curve brand was introduced in 2007 with the Curve 8300 series...
and the BlackBerry Torch
BlackBerry Torch
BlackBerry Torch is a series of smartphones manufactured by Research In Motion. The lineup currently consists of the following:* BlackBerry Torch 9800, the first phone in the series, powered by BlackBerry OS 6...
. On June 2, 2009 the company launched the first Google Android-powered devices in Canada, the HTC Dream
HTC Dream
The HTC Dream is an Internet-enabled smartphone with an operating system designed by Google and hardware designed by HTC...
and the HTC Magic
HTC Magic
The HTC Magic is a smartphone designed and manufactured by HTC Corporation. It is the second HTC device to run the Android software stack, after the HTC Dream. Vodafone unveiled the Magic on February 17, 2009 at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona...
. On November 8, 2010 Rogers also launched Windows Phone 7
Windows Phone 7
Windows Phone is a mobile operating system developed by Microsoft, and is the successor to its Windows Mobile platform, although incompatible with it. Unlike its predecessor, it is primarily aimed at the consumer market rather than the enterprise market...
devices like the Samsung Focus
Samsung Focus
The Samsung Focus is a slate smartphone which runs Microsoft's Windows Phone operating system. It features a 1 GHz Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ processor, a 4.0-inch Super AMOLED screen, and 8GB of internal storage...
.
LTE products
The first LTE product released by Rogers was the Sierra WirelessSierra Wireless
Sierra Wireless is a wireless communications equipment designer and manufacturer, founded in 1993 and currently headquartered in Richmond, British Columbia, Canada....
AirCard® 313U, known as the "LTE Rocket™ stick" by the provider. Shortly thereafter, the HTC Jetstream
HTC Jetstream
Jetstream is a 10.10 inch tablet from Taiwanese company HTC, which was earlier rumored as the HTC Puccini. It is also the first 4G LTE tablet from AT&T.HTC Jetstream has a 1.5GHz dual core processor and an 8MP camera....
tablet computer
Tablet computer
A tablet computer, or simply tablet, is a complete mobile computer, larger than a mobile phone or personal digital assistant, integrated into a flat touch screen and primarily operated by touching the screen...
was released. Both devices support up to 100 Mbit/s downloads and 50 Mbit/s uploads on the LTE network, while also supporting the older HSPA+ and GSM networks.
Later, the company plans to launch the "Sierra Wireless AirCard 754S", also known as the "LTE Rocket mobile hotspot" and similar to the MiFi
MiFi
MiFi is a line of compact wireless routers produced by Novatel Wireless that act as mobile Wi-Fi hotspots. MiFi stands for 'My Wi-Fi'. The MiFi can be connected to a mobile phone carrier and provide internet access for up to 5 devices...
. Rogers will also launch the Samsung Galaxy S II LTE.
Services
Rogers offers the following services:A large majority of the Rogers' customer base uses its GSM/GPRS/EDGE
Enhanced Data Rates for GSM Evolution
Enhanced Data rates for GSM Evolution is a digital mobile phone technology that allows improved data transmission rates as a backward-compatible extension of GSM...
network, but the main focus for development and new customers has been on its UMTS/HSDPA/EUL network. Rogers Wireless claims to be the only Canadian Wireless Provider to offer a complete, independent coast-to-coast network spanning all Canadian regions excluding the Territories.
Rogers Wireless offers the following Wireless Business Applications to its customers:
Mindit Assist, AskMeNow
AskMeNow
AskMeNow Inc. was an American public corporation, specializing in mobile search and mobile advertising. The Irvine, California based company officially launched in November 2005 and ceased operations in late 2008...
, Sales Anywhere, NewsClip, bbTV, FPinfomart Mobile, Connection Manager, eOffice.
Rogers On Demand Mobile
Customers with an iPhoneIPhone
The iPhone is a line of Internet and multimedia-enabled smartphones marketed by Apple Inc. The first iPhone was unveiled by Steve Jobs, then CEO of Apple, on January 9, 2007, and released on June 29, 2007...
, BlackBerry
BlackBerry
BlackBerry is a line of mobile email and smartphone devices developed and designed by Canadian company Research In Motion since 1999.BlackBerry devices are smartphones, designed to function as personal digital assistants, portable media players, internet browsers, gaming devices, and much more...
or Android smartphone
Smartphone
A smartphone is a high-end mobile phone built on a mobile computing platform, with more advanced computing ability and connectivity than a contemporary feature phone. The first smartphones were devices that mainly combined the functions of a personal digital assistant and a mobile phone or camera...
can use the Rogers On Demand Mobile service. The iPhone version requires iOS 3.0 or later. Rogers also offered live streaming of the 2010 FIFA World Cup
2010 FIFA World Cup
The 2010 FIFA World Cup was the 19th FIFA World Cup, the world championship for men's national association football teams. It took place in South Africa from 11 June to 11 July 2010...
during the event. Unlike its competitor Bell Mobility
Bell Mobility
Bell Mobility is a CDMA and HSPA+ based wireless network and the division of Bell Canada which sells wireless services in Canada...
, which widely advertises its Bell Mobile TV service, Rogers does not offer mobile television featuring live channels like those found on Rogers Cable
Rogers Cable
Rogers Cable Inc., a subsidiary of Rogers Communications Inc., is Canada's largest cable television service provider with about 2.25 million television customers, and over 930,000 Internet subscribers, in Manitoba, Southern & Eastern Ontario, New Brunswick and Newfoundland and Labrador.The...
.
Pricing
As one of the three main cellular providers of the Canadian market, Rogers has been criticized for having high voice and data rates compared to the other OECD markets.Rogers pricing plans for the iPhone have been noted in print media both in Canada and internationally, and online. The online critics allege price gouging
Price gouging
Price gouging is a pejorative term referring to a situation in which a seller prices goods or commodities much higher than is considered reasonable or fair. In precise, legal usage, it is the name of a crime that applies in some of the United States during civil emergencies...
and use of Rogers' monopoly on the iPhone. However, the majority of the current criticism is directed toward the monthly data limit for the iPhone device, given the availability of unlimited plans in the United States. Rogers had introduced a "$30 for 6GB" data plan., which was discontinued September 30, 2008. After the release of the iPhone 3GS, on June 19, 2009, they re-introduced this offer on a limited time basis. In 2011, this option returned during that year's back-to-school season.
As of July 7, 2009, Rogers Wireless charges 15 cents for incoming text messages to customers without a text messaging plan. The change does not affect the Fido Solutions
Fido Solutions
Fido Solutions is a Canadian cellular telephone service provider currently owned by Rogers Communications. It was formerly owned by Microcell Telecommunications. Fido does, however, remain a separate entity from Rogers...
brand. The change is similar to policies of charging for incoming text message that were adopted in August 2008 by Bell Mobility
Bell Mobility
Bell Mobility is a CDMA and HSPA+ based wireless network and the division of Bell Canada which sells wireless services in Canada...
and Telus Mobility
Telus Mobility
Telus Mobility is a division of Telus Communications which sells wireless services in Canada on its numerous networks. They currently have three different networks based on three different technologies: CDMA and HSPA+ on its mainstream networks, plus iDEN via its Mike division...
. Some users have complained that Rogers has unilaterally changed the terms of their contracts. The company maintains that changes to services and fees are permitted in the "terms of service" document.
Prices for Internet access on Rogers' LTE network, launched in the summer of 2011, have also been criticized by Micheal Geist and many potential customers interested in this recent technology. The flexible rate starts at $47.93/month, which includes the Government Regulatory Recovery Fee
System access fee
The System access fee is a non-governmental surcharge imposed by most Canadian telephone companies on their customers' monthly bills . Although it is normally charged for wireless services, Rogers Communications and the now-defunct Sprint Canada also charged its home phone customers a System Access...
(GRRF) and up to 2 GB of data transfer. The previous limit, however, was only 1½ GB. Such a plan costs more and offers less than Rogers' $37.93/month prepaid iPad
IPad
The iPad is a line of tablet computers designed, developed and marketed by Apple Inc., primarily as a platform for audio-visual media including books, periodicals, movies, music, games, and web content. The iPad was introduced on January 27, 2010 by Apple's then-CEO Steve Jobs. Its size and...
mobile Internet plan, which includes the GRRF and up to 5 GB of data transfer. Rogers currently has a promotional plan costing $52.93/month, including the GRRF and up to 10 GB of Internet access. This plan, however, is only available to those who sign a three-year contract.
Government Regulatory Recovery Fee
Rogers has been criticized for its Government Regulatory Recovery Fee (GRRF), formerly known as the System Access Fee (SAF). It costs from $1.93 to $2.97Anticompetitive tactics
Rogers launched the Chatr brand with low-end feature phones and pricing plans similar to that of new entrants such as Wind MobileWind Mobile
Wind Mobile is a Canadian wireless telecommunications provider operated by Globalive Communications Corporation. The company initially launched mobile data and voice services in Toronto on December 16, 2009 and two days later in Calgary...
, Mobilicity
Mobilicity
Mobilicity is a Canadian wireless telecommunications provider. Its name is a portmanteau of the words "mobility" and "simplicity".-History:...
and Public Mobile
Public Mobile
Public Mobile is a Canadian mobile phone company, operating in the Greater Toronto Area and Greater Montreal. It is one of several new cellphone providers which launched in 2010 in Canada. Public Mobile operates a CDMA network, and has partnered with Bell Mobility and Telus Mobility to provide...
. Chatr was criticized for being a fighter brand
Fighter Brand
In marketing, a fighter brand is a lower priced offering launched by a company to take on, and ideally take out, specific competitors that are attempting to under-price them...
created by Rogers. Also, this brand's "fewer dropped calls" claim was disputed, and even proven to be false.
Retail presence
Rogers has its own corporate retail stores, known as Rogers Plus, and also allows third parties to become exclusive dealers. Best BuyBest Buy
Best Buy Co., Inc. is an American specialty retailer of consumer electronics in the United States, accounting for 19% of the market. It also operates in Mexico, Canada & China. The company's subsidiaries include Geek Squad, CinemaNow, Magnolia Audio Video, Pacific Sales, and, in Canada operates...
, Future Shop
Future Shop
Future Shop is Canada's largest consumer electronics retailer. Future Shop currently operates a total of 146 stores across all of Canada's provinces as of December 2008....
and Walmart stores in Canada provide Fido products along with prepaid and postpaid services. Additionally, Loblaw Companies
Loblaw Companies
Loblaw Companies Limited is the largest food retailer in Canada, with over 1,400 supermarkets operating under a variety of regional banners, including the namesake Loblaws. LCL is headquartered in Brampton, Ontario...
and Zellers
Zellers
Zellers Inc. is Canada's second-largest chain of mass merchandise discount stores, with locations in communities across Canada. A subsidiary of the Hudson's Bay Company , it has 273 locations across the country....
stores sell prepaid feature phone
Feature phone
A feature phone is a mobile phone that, like smartphones, combines the functions of a personal digital assistant and a mobile phone.Today's models typically also serve as portable media players and camera phones with touchscreen, GPS navigation, Wi-Fi and mobile broadband access.Feature phones is...
s and top-up vouchers. Loblaw stores have a special booth, called The Mobile Shop, where the phones are displayed.
While Shoppers Drug Mart
Shoppers Drug Mart
Shoppers Drug Mart Corporation is Canada's largest pharmacy chain with more than 1,241 stores operating under the names Shoppers Drug Mart in nine provinces and two territories and Pharmaprix in Quebec as well as in Hawkesbury, Ontario....
carried only Rogers Wireless prepaid phones at one time, the stores temporarily partnered with Rogers. As a result, Shoppers stores added both prepaid and postpaid products and services for Rogers and its two other brands, Fido
Fido Solutions
Fido Solutions is a Canadian cellular telephone service provider currently owned by Rogers Communications. It was formerly owned by Microcell Telecommunications. Fido does, however, remain a separate entity from Rogers...
and Chatr
Chatr
Chatr is a Canadian wireless service provider targeting price-conscious customers It is the third wireless service network owned by Rogers Communications, after Rogers Wireless and Fido Solutions. The provider launched their network in Toronto, Ottawa, Calgary, Edmonton, Vancouver and now Montreal ...
. Customers could also try out the iPhone 4
IPhone 4
The iPhone 4 is a touchscreen slate smartphone developed by Apple Inc. It is the fourth generation iPhone, and successor to the iPhone 3GS. It is particularly marketed for video calling , consumption of media such as books and periodicals, movies, music, and games, and for general web and e-mail...
. As of March 2011, however, Shoppers stores ended their partnership. They only sell prepaid top-up vouchers for these providers.
Subsidiaries
In 2004, Rogers bought the only other GSM operator in Canada at that time, FidoFido Solutions
Fido Solutions is a Canadian cellular telephone service provider currently owned by Rogers Communications. It was formerly owned by Microcell Telecommunications. Fido does, however, remain a separate entity from Rogers...
, re-branding it in 2008 as a discount network operator with a new logo and a limited selection of phones, consisting mostly of feature phone
Feature phone
A feature phone is a mobile phone that, like smartphones, combines the functions of a personal digital assistant and a mobile phone.Today's models typically also serve as portable media players and camera phones with touchscreen, GPS navigation, Wi-Fi and mobile broadband access.Feature phones is...
s but including a few smartphone
Smartphone
A smartphone is a high-end mobile phone built on a mobile computing platform, with more advanced computing ability and connectivity than a contemporary feature phone. The first smartphones were devices that mainly combined the functions of a personal digital assistant and a mobile phone or camera...
s.
In mid-2010, in response to the emergence of several new phone carriers Rogers released Chatr
Chatr
Chatr is a Canadian wireless service provider targeting price-conscious customers It is the third wireless service network owned by Rogers Communications, after Rogers Wireless and Fido Solutions. The provider launched their network in Toronto, Ottawa, Calgary, Edmonton, Vancouver and now Montreal ...
wireless. It is a discount brand aimed to directly compete with the new carriers in their coverage areas. Chatr's device selection is similar to, but has fewer option than, Fido's. The new carriers, specifically Mobilicity
Mobilicity
Mobilicity is a Canadian wireless telecommunications provider. Its name is a portmanteau of the words "mobility" and "simplicity".-History:...
, claimed that Chatr is a "fighter brand" released by Rogers to drive them out of business.