CRTC
Apple Clarifies Privacy and Data Use from 911 Calls to CRTC
Apple has responded to the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) regarding the privacy and data use of its Emergency Location Service (ELS) and Hybridized Emergency Location (HELO) technology. The response comes after a request from Mr. Michael Murray, Director of Dispute Resolution and Regulatory Implementation at the CRTC. In its letter dated June 14,...
Canadian Mobile Data Usage Hits Record Highs, Says Industry Group
Canadian mobile subscribers are using more data than ever before, according to new statistics from the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC). In the fourth quarter of 2023, the average monthly data usage per subscriber reached 7.92 GB, more than double the amount recorded three years ago, touted the industry group, the Canadian Telecommunications Association....
U.S. Criticizes New Streaming Tax Favouring Big Canadian Firms
The United States has raised concerns over a new Canadian fee imposed on American streaming companies, arguing it "disproportionately" benefits Canadian interests. This week, the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) mandated that foreign streaming services, such as Netflix and Spotify, give 5% of their Canadian revenues to support local news and Canadian content. Members...
CRTC Hits Online Streamers Like Netflix, Spotify with New Fee
The CRTC has announced significant progress in implementing the Online Streaming Act, formerly known as Bill C-11. The Act, which amends the Broadcasting Act, mandates the CRTC to update the Canadian broadcasting framework and ensure that online streaming services such as Netflix and more, contribute to Canadian and Indigenous content. Following the adoption of the...
CRTC Gives Corus Relief on Canadian Content Spending Rules
The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) has approved Corus Entertainment's request to reduce its Canadian content spending requirements from 8.5% to 5% of revenue, starting May 13, 2024. Corus, the country's largest provider of independent programming, submitted a proposal last fall, seeking a reduction in spending obligations for programs of national interest (PNI) and...
CRTC Warns Scammers are Impersonating their Support Line
The CRTC is warning Canadians that scammers are currently impersonating them, specifically their Consumer Support Line. The Commission announced on X on Wednesday, "There is a scam using the phone number of the CRTC’s Consumer Support Line. If you receive a suspicious call claiming to be from the CRTC, do not give any personal or...
CRTC Denies Quick Decision on ‘Big 3’ Fibre Network Sharing
The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) has rejected a request by Bell and several independent internet providers for an expedited decision that would block incumbents from using competitors' fibre networks to deliver services. According to CRTC secretary-general Marc Morin, the petition, filed in March, lacked sufficient evidence of irreparable harm, reports The Canadian Press....
CRTC Delays Streaming Act Until After Next Federal Election
Just over a year ago, the Senate passed Bill C-11, which granted the CRTC the right to regulate user content and promote “officially Canadian” content. Known as the Online Streaming Act, Bill C-11 saw over 100,000 Canadians oppose the amendment that would update the country’s Broadcasting Act. But yesterday, the CRTC announced it has now...
Quebecor Axes Manitoba Plans, Blames CRTC Telus Decision
Quebecor says it is disappointed following a CRTC arbitration decision made today, regarding the access rates it must pay to Telus under the Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) regime. "We are surprised that the CRTC wants to limit the choices of Canadians who would like to enjoy innovative new wireless plans at better prices,” said...
CRTC Study Comparing International Roaming Fees Coming Soon
The CRTC reiterated this week it has commissioned a study to compare international roaming fees charged by Canadian telecoms versus the world, and it should be out soon. According to the CRTC, "The study is comparing the fees that Canadians pay with the fees charged in other countries. It will help us decide the best...
Rogers Gets CRTC Funding to Boost Cell Service in Northern BC
The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) announced on Friday its plan to improve cellphone service along a 70-kilometre stretch of Highway 37 in northern British Columbia. Through its Broadband Fund, the CRTC will fund Rogers for the construction of new cell towers. This will bring improved access to emergency services and positively impact nearby...
TekSavvy Asks CRTC for Fair Wholesale Rates at Hearing
TekSavvy made a compelling case for the need to adjust wholesale internet rates to ensure fair competition and consumer choice, speaking at the CRTC public hearing that’s been ongoing this week. Andy Kaplan-Myrth, TekSavvy's VP of Regulatory and Carrier Affairs, alongside Pierre Aube, Chief Operating Officer, and Jessica Rutledge, Director of Regulatory and Consumer Legal...