CRTC to Release Wireless Code on June 3

Canadian mobile subscribers will finally have the answer to their questions about when they can walk away from their contract, when the three-year contract term will be scrapped, and even phone unlocking, as the CRTC will release the new Wireless Code of Conduct on Monday at 9 a.m.

The CRTC will release the document just as a three-day conference for wireless executives and regulators kicks off in Toronto. The regulator circulated a draft code, which applies to all carriers including new entrants, Jan. 28.

After months of drafting the code based on consumer input followed by a public debate, the Wireless Code is set to bring desired regulation into a market dominated by three big names: Rogers, Telus and Bell.

When asked for input, Canadian mobile subscribers pointed to the main issues of the wireless market: the three-year contract, mobile phone bill clarity, and others. While consumers have shared their own issues with the industry players and the rules, it remains to be seen whether the final version of the Wireless Code will indeed protect their rights and will address the timely questions on the Canadian mobile market.

The big day is June 3, when CRTC will release the new guidelines for Canadian telcos. CRTC Chairman Jean-Pierre Blais will speak at the Canadian Telecom Summit on June 4 at 10 a.m.