Introduce a Hybrid Network/Wi-Fi sharing where Talk+SMS & Data work hand-in-hand, Win/Win

[makkahn28]

I had this thought.

If PM created a System, Hybrid Network/Wi-Fi sharing module system where Talk+SMS Txt can function, wouldn't this create new opportunities for PM to reduce some strain on network, and more importantly, For those who live in Sub-Level structures or areas where Signal strength is weak, wouldn't Wi-Fi be something that can compensate for that, and still permit some function?

Having VoLTE is certainly a Must, BUT a VoWi-Fi is also turning out to be just as a necessity too, why NOT PM explore, who knows, it might offer some stability in the long-term, and perhaps reinvent how we use our SmartPhones in the future, and if Roam compatible, this may create oppotunities as well, having a Hybrid service maybe the smartest Public Service PM could ever offer, and Fees still effectively priced, a Win/Win for Everyone.

[Luddite]

For me, this is definitely on the far far away back burner until new bug is exterminated.

[Korth]

Not sure I understand the potential advantages of hybrid connectivity.

Connectivity is currently based on point-of-demand.  When WiFi is available then WiFi can be used, when WiFi is unavailable then cellular data must be used.  Phone software can already select which connectivity types are preferred.  Hybrid connects won't change service availability, lack of service will still be lack of service.

Customers want more speed, especially in areas where fastest-broadest (3G/4G/LTE/etc) data speeds aren't available.  More active radio hardware, more frequency bands and channels, more signal redundancy - this would indeed increase data bandwidths.

But customers also want to leverage existing "free" WiFi into this new "hybridized" WiFi in a better (for the customer) balance of performance vs cost, to get more speed without paying for more speed, to get more data without paying for more data.

And upgrading hardware across cellular networks is going to cost.  Carriers won't be willing to pay that cost unless absolutely needed (because competitors offer high-demand services their networks lack, or because regulatory requirements basically write it into law).  They especially won't want to pay for upgrades that will diminish their data revenues.  So, if it happens at all, final costs will likely be passed down to the end-users.

I'm personally disinterested in paying more to get more because what I get is all I need, although of course my opinion isn't representative of the market.  I'm apprehensive about combining anything "free" with anything "subscription", where is the advantage to consumers when free commodities are allowed to become monetized?

[Korth]

Rampantly doubly-posting for a little emphasis:

Hybrid WiFi/Data will require upgrading network hardware across every coverage area.  Public Mobile doesn't do network hardware - they use Telus network hardware.  If and when Telus implements Hybrid WiFi/Data (or anything else) across their network hardware then PM (and PM's customers!) will benefit, but if Telus does nothing new then PM can do nothing new.

[makkahn28]

 If PM had such an option, there would be benefits, and perhaps fees would be even better than current, Plus if PPL live in areas where Signal is not as optimized, Wi-Fi can serve a purpose for that, so its always prudent to find new ways to enhance services

[srlawren]

Nothing to create, this exists and it's called VoWifi.  As to when we will get it, that's anyone's guess.

Freedom Mobile (formerly Wind) plans to make extensive use of this to bolster their cellular network using the pretty awesome Shaw Go (aka Shaw Open) WiFi network.

[WearySky]

Yup, Rogers already has this.  Telus has had a service called Telus Extend in beta since 2014, but as far as I can tell it still isn't widely available (although that looks like it might be more a clone of Rogers One Number as opposed to VoWifi).