The CRTC says it will require mobile service providers to report cellphone coverage using outdoor signal strength measurements to help Canadians identify gaps.
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The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission says it is introducing a new approach to help consumers understand the quality of cellphone coverage in different areas and identify potential gaps.
In a decision announced Friday, the CRTC said it will require service providers to report on the coverage of their mobile networks, including the outdoor signal strength at various electrical power levels.
The regulator said the change would give Canadians more detailed information about coverage in specific areas, making it easier to compare service options and to report locations where coverage maps do not match peoples’ experience.
The CRTC already collects coverage data from providers and shares it with Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada for its national broadband map, but the commission said it hopes to improve accuracy and provide a clearer picture of connectivity needs across the country.
CRTC chair and CEO Vicky Eatrides said improving how cellphone coverage is reported and giving Canadians a way to flag gaps can help support investment where it is needed.
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