Unlicensed spectrum eyed for easing wireless capacity crunch

As data consumption by smartphone users increases exponentially every year, wireless technology companies are looking to harness the unlicensed spectrum normally used for WiFi connections to improve cellular performance.

CRTC, spectrum auctions among major wireless issues for 2015: analysts

As the new year approaches, Canadian wireless carriers of all sizes await a CRTC decision on domestic roaming that could, in the words of one analyst, “disrupt” the industry with wide-ranging consequences for two upcoming spectrum auctions and beyond.

Mobilicity less attractive than Wind for Quebecor: analyst

New-entrant wireless carrier Mobilicity is in a holding pattern after the collapse of a buyout deal with Telus Corp. that could harm its chances of being rescued from bankruptcy protection, according to Macquarie Capital Markets analyst Greg MacDonald.

MacDonald said in a phone interview Wednesday that Videotron owner Quebecor Inc. now appears to be the only serious bidder for the company and that Mobilicity’s continuing losses and a slide in subscriber numbers leave it in a poor negotiating position. 

Wind seeks LTE spectrum from Shaw, Quebecor

TORONTO — Wind Mobile CEO Anthony Lacavera said Tuesday that his company needs access to LTE spectrum, perhaps from unused space held by Quebecor Inc. or Shaw Communications Inc., if his company is to continue to be a viable alternative to the incumbent wireless carriers.

Government wireless policy blasted at telecom conference

OTTAWA — Participants at a conference discussion about the wireless industry on Thursday blasted the federal government for its approach in trying to bring more competition to the sector, and a consensus emerged that there is too much overlap between Industry Canada, the CRTC and the Competition Bureau in regulating the mobile-services industry.