WINNIPEG – Local 10-digit dialling is coming to Manitoba starting July 29, 2012, a move that will pave the way for a new area code as the 204 area code reaches capacity.
Starting in November 2012, area code 431 will be added in Manitoba using the overlay method, and will be assigned to customers for additional services on an as needed basis. It will coexist with the current 204 area code and will cover the same geographic area.
The move comes as the popularity of new telecommunications services and changes in the competitive environment drive an increase in demand for phone numbers in the region, according to the Telecommunications Alliance, a group of telecommunications companies operating in Manitoba who is spearheading a public awareness campaign about the changes.
"Many regions in Canada have already successfully transitioned to local 10-digit dialling and we are confident these changes will be seamless for residents and businesses in Manitoba," said Alliance spokesperson Glenn Pilley, in a statement. "In order to ensure a successful transition, we recommend that people start reprogramming their equipment to comply with 10-digit local dialling as of December 1, 2011, as telecommunications companies operating in Manitoba will be able to support 10-digit dialed calls as of this date."
