Telus is a giant in the telecom industry. With millions of customers nationwide, an extensive mobile network and iconic animal-themed advertisements, they’re one of those companies that needs no introduction. On top of their solid reputation, Telus also boasts some of the country’s strongest infrastructure. As a result, they have invested billions of dollars towards bringing technology like 5G and fibre internet to rural communities across Canada. In August 2021, they announced that Telus’ 5G network is coming to Medicine Hat and Brooks, Alberta. With populations of 60,000 and 15,000 respectively, these two communities are the latest to receive Telus’ advanced network. The investment is part of a larger $14.5 billion investment to improve Alberta’s infrastructure. In this brief article, we’ll go over everything you need to know about Telus’ investment, 5G in Alberta, and more.
Telus’ 5G Network
Telus, Bell and Rogers are currently the three providers with 5G networks in Canada. A recent report revealed that Telus’s 5G network is the fastest of the three by a significant margin. So, Medicine Hat and Brooks aren’t just receiving any 5G network, they’re gaining access to the strongest one in the country. Additionally, these two communities are just the tip of the iceberg. Since 2000, Telus has invested over $51 billion in Alberta’s network infrastructure. Their current $14.5 billion investment aims to introduce 5G technology in 136 communities in Alberta by 2024.
Medicine Hat and Brooks
Medicine Hat, Alberta is located near the South Saskatchewan River Valley. Residents and visitors will enjoy their vast prairies, full of budding wildlife. Medicine Hat earned the nickname “The Gas City” due to their large natural gas reserves. When settlers were searching for water, they instead struck gas and discovered one of the country’s largest gas reserves. With a rich Cree history, natural resources, and charming nature scenes, Medicine Hat is a gem within Alberta.
Located Northwest of Medicine Hat, Brooks is a smaller community. After being a buffalo hunting ground throughout the late 1800s, Brooks was officially established as a town in 1910. Their population and economy grew substantially due to their gas and oil exports. Over a hundred years later, Brooks continues to be a friendly small town with valuable exports.
Now that you have a better understanding of Telus’ network and the towns they are working with, you may feel a bit confused. Why would Telus bring their renowned 5G network to small towns like these? Further, why are they spending billions of dollars to modernize these communities? Shouldn’t they focus more towards improving their technology and urban environments?
Telus’ CEO Darren Entwistle stated that “the ongoing expansion of our next-generation 5G technology is bridging time and distance, allowing residents to live and work in any community without compromising productivity or economic opportunity.” Following the devastating events of COVID-19, Telus’ investments are trying to help communities navigate a global pandemic. By bringing advanced internet and mobile networks to small towns, they will be adequately prepared to work from home and keep in touch with their loved ones.
Conclusion
While urban communities are already prepared with adequate technology, rural towns are often lacking in such services. Unfortunately, countless Canadians struggled to learn or work from home throughout the pandemic. Since Telus’ 5G network is starting to cover Alberta, we can expect a better future for rural Canadians. As major providers continue to make similar investments, the entire country will be prepared. Although we hope another instance never forces us indoors, every Canadian deserves to be ready in case of emergency.
Don’t forget, you can already shop 5G plans on PlanHub using our mobile plan comparison tool.
