HALIFAX — Eastlink announced today the launch of its 5G network, powered by Ericsson technology, with initial activation in 18 sites in Halifax and expanded coverage planned in the coming months.
“We are thrilled to launch the most transformative technological advancement in mobile after several years of network investment and prep work,” said Jeff Gillham, CEO of Eastlink, in a press release.
“Our world is more connected than ever and our customers count on us to be ready for whatever the future brings. Access to 5G will help our customers manage the increasing busyness and connectivity of their everyday lives and introduce new innovations and business opportunities required to compete on the global stage,” Gillham said.
Eastlink’s 5G network uses “Ericsson’s energy-efficient and high-performing Radio Access Network (RAN), which will ultimately deliver faster connectivity speeds, ultra-low latency, and greater bandwidth to advance societies, transform industries and dramatically enhance day-to-day experiences,” reads Eastlink’s press release.
“Our partnership with Ericsson, a global leader in communications technology, brings the digital future into full view to satisfy our customers’ ever increasing mobility requirements,” said Steve Irvine, Eastlink’s vice-president of engineering and chief technology officer.
“5G opens a new world of innovative possibilities that will integrate seamlessly into industries such as agriculture, transportation, manufacturing and healthcare,” said Jeanette Irekvist, vice-president and head of the Canadian customer unit for Ericsson North America.
“The combination of strengthened network capabilities complemented with new device range and form factors will enable completely transformed services and new experiences to consumers and enterprises,” Irekvist said.
Eastlink’s press release says it was “the first company in Canada to fully sunset older, 3G technology to make way for the most advanced network capabilities of 5G,” and indicates it has invested more than $300 million since the launch of its wireless service in 2013 to grow the service across its Canadian footprint.
“Most recently, the company successfully acquired 3500MHz wireless spectrum licenses, which will enable next generation technologies powered by 5G,” the release says.
