Sponsored Content: This coverage is brought to you by Bell Canada.
Story at a Glance: What is 5G+ Advanced? It is Bell’s fastest network yet, utilizing a new 5G Standalone (SA) core and 3800 MHz spectrum to deliver a more responsive mobile experience. Bell 5G+ Advanced reaches peak theoretical download speeds of up to 4.3 Gbps, providing the capacity needed for high-bandwidth tasks like mobile gaming and 4K video chatting. The network is currently live across the GTHA and is expanding into the Niagara region, targeting the fastest-growing areas in Ontario. Supported devices include the iPhone 17 and 16 series, Samsung Galaxy S26, S25, and S24 series, and Google Pixel 9 and 10 series.
When Canadians ask how fast 5G is, the answer goes beyond peak speed claims to reflect how networks are built and experienced. The addition of the 3800 MHz spectrum through Bell’s new 5G+ Advanced doesn’t just deliver faster speeds, it also increases network capacity and, when paired with a 5G Standalone core, enables lower latency and greater responsiveness. Together, these advancements support those seeking a premium mobile experience, as the new 5G standalone network will help unlock new capabilities that will lay the foundation for innovative applications and services in the future.
Key Takeaways: Bell’s strategic $518-million investment in 3800 MHz licenses has unlocked spectrum depth. This allows for much wider data channels, meaning more data can travel at the same time without interference.
In 2023, Bell acquired 939 licenses in the 3800 MHz band, securing the largest share of 5G+ spectrum nationwide. This was part of a broader $24 billion investment in wireless and Pure Fibre infrastructure since 2020.
Technically, 3800 MHz sits in the C-band, a sweet spot that balances the long-range reach of low-frequency waves with the massive data capacity of high-frequency waves. By layering 3800 MHz on top of the existing 3500 MHz footprint, Bell has created a more robust network that can handle the modern data needs of Canadians.
The Performance Insight: Deployment of 5G+ Advanced has pushed previous speed limits to a new standard of up to 4.3 Gbps. In southern Ontario, this rollout has effectively increased 5G network capacity by up to 65%.
The technical impact of the 5G+ Advanced deployment has fundamentally changed performance by delivering higher peak performance of up to 4.3 Gbps and localized reach across 18 initial communities. This expansion includes major hubs like Toronto and Mississauga as well as Niagara Falls and St. Catharines. Learn more about Bell’s coverage here.
The Verdict: Through 5G+ Advanced technology, Bell uses its new 5G standalone core to stitch spectrum bands together, creating a massive 4.3 Gbps data pipe that provides a more responsive experience for high-bandwidth tasks.
Third-party data from Ookla confirms Bell’s network leadership. In the most recent Speedtest Intelligence reports, Bell dominated the market, earning titles for the fastest 5G network and the best 5G gaming experience. This technical milestone, combined with a new 5G+ Advanced badge to help customers identify compatible hardware, is why Bell continues to lead the industry in wireless innovation and network leadership.
See Bell.ca/network for more details. Canada’s fastest 5G, Canada’s Best 5G, and Canada’s Best 5G Gaming Experience based on Ookla® Speedtest Intelligence® data, 2H 2025. All rights reserved.
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