Rogers Deploys 5G Spectrum in Nanaimo Ahead of Canada-wide Launch

Rogers Communications announced this week that it has started to deploy its 5G network in Canada.

The first location in the nation to experience Rogers’ 3500 MHz spectrum holdings is Nanaimo. The telecom titan plans to follow up quickly with deployment in major urban cores including Vancouver, Toronto, and Calgary.

“As the country’s … first to launch 3500 MHz, we are excited to expand Canada’s largest and most reliable network to more families, businesses and communities through the deployment of our 3500 MHz spectrum,” said Tony Staffieri, President and CEO, Rogers Communications.

The 3500 MHz band increases network capacity, boosting speed and delivering ultra-low latency, according to Rogers. The company believes 5G will transform industries reliant on high-speed internet such as augmented reality.

The new high-band complements existing low-band spectrum, says Staffieri.

“[This] deployment builds on our foundational 5G investment in low-band 600 MHz spectrum, so we can usher in a new era of mobile and fixed wireless broadband that will create jobs, fuel innovation and keep our economy competitive,” he noted.

Rogers tested a hockey Augmented Reality Immersive fan experience leveraging Rogers 5G 3500 MHz network in partnership with AWS Outpost Mobile Edge Computing, Ericsson, Immersiv.io, MLSE and the NHL. The stunt showed off to fans how AR can add dynamic elements to even the real, physical experience of attending a game.

“We’re ready to take Canada’s largest and most reliable 5G network even further with the deployment of our 3500 MHz spectrum assets, leveraging the full capabilities of the technology to bring Canadians the best mobile experience wherever they may be,” said Jorge Fernandes, Chief Technology Officer, Rogers Communications.

“The speed and capacity of 5G, coupled with our rapidly expanding network footprints, offers endless possibilities for consumers and business users, from smart homes, vehicles and cities, to augmented reality and machine learning and we’re eager to deliver these benefits to Canadians no matter where they may live,” he added.

Competitor Telus recently announced a $17 billion investment in BC to upgrade its own network infrastructure, operations, and spectrum. The investment move is expected to generate thousands of jobs in Western Canada.