Canadian carriers can’t lock phones to their networks now

A review of the existing Wireless Code is helping bolster the protection of consumers when it comes to dealing with the big telecom providers. The code, which defines the rules and regulations for service providers, was enforced back in June 2015. Two years after the enactment, the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) reviewed and revised the code. One of the big changes is that starting December 1, 2017, any wireless consumer can get their mobile phones unlocked from their carrier free of charge. Carriers can’t lock devices for sale from that point forward, too.

The trial period for customers to cancel their contracts have also been extended from the previously small 30 minutes of voice usage and 50MB of data to up to 15 days and 50 percent of monthly voice and data usage. Canadians with disabilities get double at 30 days and 100 percent of their monthly usage before they can cancel their contracts free of charge. When canceling, too, the contract cancellation will be effective immediately; instead of having to wait 30 days before the contract is completely canceled.

Aside from this, account holders—whether it’s a personal or family plan—will need to consent to overage fees over $50 for data overage cap and $100 for roaming overage cap. It doesn’t matter how many devices are attached to the account. Also, carriers are required to suspend roaming service when fees reach $100. Customers will get a text message at this point asking if they’d like to use some more.

Source: Android Central