HALIFAX, AUGUST 17, 2011 – Nova Scotians will soon have access to one of North America’s most advanced wireless systems.  The new network, currently under construction by Eastlink, is being designed to accommodate consumer demand for high-speed data transmission to and from their hand-held devices.  The network preview was given today by Steve Irvine, vice president of engineering and operations for Eastlink Wireless.

Speaking at the Rotary Club of Halifax Northwest, Irvine said Eastlink’s new wireless system is taking advantage of technology that wasn’t available when mobile phones became common place.

“The cell phone has become a powerful tool that consumers are using for far more than making phone calls.  Eastlink’s network will permit high speed video and data streaming – services consumers now expect.”

Irvine said the backbone for the new Eastlink Wireless system will be provided by Ericsson of Sweden. 

“We’ve partnered with Ericsson because they are the world’s largest supplier of mobile infrastructure,” noted Irvine. 

“The multi-million dollar purchase, combined with the company’s existing fibre optic infrastructure, will give Eastlink customers access to the best communications and entertainment services available.  Customers using the new Eastlink wireless network will be able to work and communicate more reliably and faster than ever before, particularly when they combine their service with our video and high-speed internet,” said Irvine.

Irvine also explained how local consumers will benefit from additional wireless supplier choices.

“The increased competition Eastlink brings to this sector will have a number of immediate benefits for telecommunications consumers,” said Irvine.

“Eastlink’s next-generation technology was chosen to accommodate the explosive growth in demand for internet and video content on smart phones, tablet computers and other mobile devices.”  Irvine told the Rotarians that by 2020 it is predicted 50 billion devices will be connected around the world.  “We are getting ready for that extraordinary growth and demand by building a system that will meet those needs immediately and into the future.”

Irvine added when Eastlink’s wireless network becomes available in 2012 the company will be able to offer the region’s only “quad-play” service bundle that includes all four major telecommunications services: wireless, video, internet and telephone. 

“Eastlink will introduce integrated packages that offer more choice and value to consumers,” Irvine concluded.

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About Eastlink
With more than 1,700 employees from coast to coast, Eastlink delivers world-class video entertainment, internet, and telephone services to residential, business and public-sector customers across Canada.

Powered by a state-of-the-art fibre optic and wireless networks, Eastlink’s advanced services include Whole Home DVR, Video OnDemand, HD and 3D programming, High Speed Internet scalable to 200 Mbps, competitive local and long distance telephone services, Eastlink Wireless, and exclusive locally-produced programming via Eastlink TV. Eastlink has been recognized as one of Canada’s 50 Best managed Companies for seven years running.

Media Contact:
Jill Laing, Public and Media Relations
Eastlink
Phone: (902) 446-1939
email: jill.laing@corp.Eastlink.ca