An interesting study conducted by Canadian research firm The Seaboard Group discovered that, of the developed countries, Canadians pay the most for their cell phones services. According to the study, the average cell phone user forks over 33 per cent more dough a month than even our neighbours to the south. This number rises to 56 per cent for those considered to be “heavy” users (1,200 min./mth.) This is due to high per/minute rates and long distance charges, as well as hidden (or not so hidden) additional feels, like 9-1-1 access, and that pesky service charge for which no one can really explain the purpose (really, what the heck does that cover?)Because of this, Canadians are reluctant to jump on board the cellular wagon. Seaboard says that even though 58 per cent of Canadians own a mobile phone, we’re way behind other countries: America is at 75 per cent, while 86 per cent of Germans are chatting it up on-the-go.
How do we change this? Well, more competition would help.
We have, ultimately, four main wireless carriers in Ontario: Rogers Wireless, Fido Wireless, Telus Mobility, and Bell Mobility. Virgin Mobile uses Bell’s network; while youth-oriented newcomer Amp’d Mobile piggybacks with Telus’ EVDO network. GSM, the international standard for wireless technology, is only available through Rogers Wireless and Fido, the latter of which Rogers owns. It’s like choosing between apple pie made with granny smith or mcintosh apples. In the end, it’s just apple pie. Why don't we have some cherry, lemon meringue, and key lime? (getting hungry, yet?)
As they say, variety is the spice of life. Let’s get some in the wireless arena.
