Rogers has started to roll out Canada’s first 5G network in downtown Vancouver, Toronto, Ottawa and Montreal so it is ready when 5G devices become available.
The 5G network will initially use 2.5 GHz spectrum in the downtown cores, and will expand to use 600 MHz 5G spectrum later this year. 600 MHz is best suited for wireless data across long distances and through urban areas, creating higher quality coverage in remote areas and smart cities.
Rogers says that in the future, it will also deploy 3.5 GHz spectrum and dynamic spectrum sharing, which will allow 4G spectrum to be used for 5G.
It’s important to note that no one will be able to use the network yet, as there aren’t any phones authorized to the network. The carrier hasn’t provided any information regarding coverage.
“5G is the biggest technological evolution since the launch of wireless in Canada. We are making the right investments, building the right partnerships and deploying the right technology to bring Canadians the very best of 5G,” said Joe Natale, president and CEO of Rogers Communications in a press release.
The Rogers 5G network will expand to over 20 more markets by the end of the year.
The carrier says it will turn on 5G in the Rogers Centre, Scotiabank Arena and Rogers Arena to enhance how fans watch the game in the future.
Rogers says it partnered with Ericsson for its 4.5G and 5G technology. The two companies have worked together on wireless services since 1985.
The carrier says its 5G services will only be available on Rogers Infinite plans with unlimited data. Rogers launched those plans in the summer of 2019.
Rogers’ CTO Jorge Fernandes stated, “5G is not just another G. It is a global technology that requires local development to deliver the best social and economic benefits to Canadians. Through our multi-year program we will invest in our wireless network and partner with leaders to drive innovative use cases for Canadian consumers and businesses.”
Update 15/01/20 4:10pm ET: MobileSyrup has reached out to Bell and Telus regarding their status on 5G networks. Bell said that it “is ready to launch similar Early 5G service in these and other centres this year as capable smartphones become available.”
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