Latest news with #Bell
Montreal Gazette
a day ago
- Business
- Montreal Gazette
Cogeco launches wireless network free for a year for internet customers
Cogeco announced on Wednesday it has formally launched mobile service in parts of Ontario and Quebec, with introductory plans for its internet and TV customers as little as $0 per month for the first year. For now, the service is only available to people living in 13 communities in Quebec and Ontario who are Cogeco cable internet subscribers or sign up for that service: Quebec: Alma, Magog, Rimouski, St-Georges, St-Hyacinthe, St-Sauveur, Sept-Îles and Trois-Rivières Ontario: Brockville, Chatham, Cobourg, Cornwall and Welland The bring-your-own-phone plans include nationwide service on the Telus network, but require subscribers to spend the majority of their usage on Cogeco's home network, covering Quebec and eastern, central, southern and southwestern Ontario. The free plans, which also waive $60 connection fees, include unlimited nationwide calling and texts, call display and voice mail. There's a talk and text plan that will cost $39/month after 12 months, and a 10 GB data plan costing $49/month after 12 months. There's also a 25 GB data plan at $10/month for the first year and $59/month after that. Unused data can be rolled over to the next month, up to 100 per cent the amount in the monthly plan. To get the plans for free, besides living in the aforementioned communities and being Cogeco internet customers, subscribers must sign up for pre-authorized payments. 'For almost 70 years, Cogeco has been deeply rooted in regional markets. The launch of Cogeco Mobile is not just a new chapter, it's a bold declaration of our unwavering commitment to be a competitive force in Canada,' Cogeco president and CEO Frédéric Perron said in a statement from the company. Cogeco has been teasing a wireless service launch for years, but held off until the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission set wholesale rates and rules for new wireless companies to use networks belonging to the main network operators Bell, Rogers, Telus and SaskTel. Telus announced last week that it was serving as the national provider for Cogeco's wireless network. Defensive move: analysts In a note, National Bank analyst Adam Shine said Cogeco has been exploring wireless on both sides of the border with the spring launch of Breezeline Mobile in the U.S. as a defensive move to bundle with internet and reduce churn in its cable business. Breezeline, the eighth-largest cable operator in the United States, provides internet, video and telephony services in 13 states. The Massachusetts-based subsidiary launched mobile phone service on May 2024 as a pay-as-you-go service with no term contracts or cancellation fees. The telco is leveraging a seven-year mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) regime that launched last year, he said. The CRTC policy gives regional wireless carriers access to Bell, Rogers, Telus and SaskTel networks for a period of seven years. 'We'll now wait to see how existing wireless operators in Canada react to (Cogeco's) arrival on the scene with its introductory offers just as back-to-school gets going and incumbents talk about more discipline,' Shine wrote. When it first announced the service launch two weeks ago, Perron said Cogeco would be 'aggressive' on pricing, but discounts would not remain long-term. 'It's not a strategy to go national or anything like that,' he said. 'We're a rational player.'
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Sonim XP Pro Ultra-Rugged Smartphone Now Available Across Canada on Bell, Telus, Rogers, and SaskTel
Built for Mission-Critical Professionals, the XP Pro Delivers Unmatched Durability, Performance, and Reliability San Diego, California--(Newsfile Corp. - July 30, 2025) - Sonim Technologies (NASDAQ: SONM), a leading provider of ultra-rugged mobile solutions, today announced the launch and availability of the Sonim XP Pro across Canada. Now available through Bell, Telus, Rogers, and SaskTel, the XP Pro is engineered for Canada's toughest jobs and harshest conditions and empowers those who keep the country moving. From emergency responders and utility crews to transportation operators and municipal crews, this ultra-rugged device delivers uncompromising performance, seamless connectivity, and the confidence to stay mission-ready—no matter where the work takes them. The Sonim XP Pro continues Sonim's legacy of delivering rugged devices that exceed industry standards for durability and reliability. Designed to meet the unique needs of Canadian businesses and public safety professionals, the XP Pro is packed with next-generation features that ensure seamless connectivity, mission-critical functionality, and all-day performance. Key Features of the Sonim XP Pro: Unmatched Ruggedness: Engineered to Sonim Rugged Performance Standards (RPS), the XP Pro surpasses IP68 and MIL-STD-810H durability standards, is certified for IPX9K water resistance (withstands water submersion in both fresh and saltwater for one hour at a depth of 2 meters (6.5 feet)1 making it ideal for industrial, emergency response, and maritime settings.), endures drops from 2 meters (6.5 feet) onto concrete across multiple angles, and is dust-tight and operable in temperatures from -20°C to 55°C (-4 °F to 131 °F), in addition to non-incendive Class I, II, III, and Division 2 ratings that further guarantee safety in hazardous environments where they may be flammable gases, dust, or fibers. Mission-Critical Controls: Programmable, glove-friendly buttons for Push-to-Talk (PTT), SOS, and other customizable functions ensure quick access to essential tools. Powerful Connectivity: Powered by the Snapdragon® Gen 7 processor (SM7550) 5G chipset, the XP Pro delivers ultra-reliable connectivity and faster data speeds, even in remote or challenging environments. Exceptional Audio Clarity: Dual loudspeakers with 100+ dB output and advanced noise cancellation ensure clear communication in noisy settings2. All-Day Battery Life3: A robust 5000mAh battery supports long workdays with fast-charging options, including USB Type-C and multi-bay chargers. Reliable Performance Backed by a Powerful CoreComes standard with 8GB of RAM, and 256GB of storage (expandable to 2TB4), the XP Pro handles demanding applications, including near real-time monitoring, high-resolution imaging, and data processing. Comprehensive Warranty & Support - Backed by Sonim's industry-leading 3-year comprehensive warranty5, SonimCare support, and SonimWare device-management suite. Ecosystem & Accessories - Fully integrates with rugged accessories like vehicle mounts, headsets, and multi-bay chargers for seamless deployment. "Sonim is known for delivering purpose-built solutions that no other brand can compete with, and the XP Pro is no exception," said Chuck Becher, Chief Commercial Officer, Sonim. "This device is designed to meet the unique needs of first responders and mission-critical professionals, offering unmatched durability, reliability, and performance. It's why Sonim continues to be the preferred choice for those who work in the most demanding environments. With its availability across Canada's leading carriers, our customers now have access to a rugged smartphone they can trust to get the job done, no matter the conditions." AvailabilityThe Sonim XP Pro is now available through Bell, Telus, Rogers, and SaskTel. For more information, visit or contact sales@ 1 Based on Sonim internal and SGS lab testing & certification. The MIL-STD-810H testing includes drop testing onto concrete with the device on its front, corners and edges, a total of 26 times combined. These devices meet and/or exceed specification (MIL-STD-810H) testing against a subset of specific environmental conditions, including temperature/humidity, thermal shock, mechanical shock/drop/vibration, water and solar radiation. Real world usage varies from the specific environmental conditions used in MIL-STD-810H testing. These devices meet and/or exceed IP68/X9K testing against a vacuum test with talcum powder for 8 hours on 5 devices and testing the device against different conditions including turntable speed, waterflow, water pressure, water temperature, water submersion, test position, test distance from jet to sample and test duration. Real world usage varies from the specific conditions used in IP68/X9K testing. 2 To prevent possible hearing damage, do not listen at high volume levels for long periods of time. 3 Battery life varies significantly with settings, usage and other factors. 4 External storage SD card not included. Must be purchased separately. 5 The 3 year warranty covers everything except the following:(a) damage resulting from abuse, accident or misuse; (b) damage resulting from use outside the parameters indicated in the User Guide, including those related to liquid, shock and dust exposure; (c) cosmetic damage including dents and scratches; (d) ordinary wear and tear; (e) damage resulting from use of this mobile phone with accessories, equipment or other mobile phones or equipment not furnished or expressly approved by Sonim; (f) damage resulting from third-party software; (g) damage resulting from maintenance, service adjustment or installation of the mobile phone, performed or attempted by any person or entity not expressly authorized by Sonim; (h) loss of use of the mobile phone (i) loss of data, information or third-party applications or software; (j) fire, flood, windstorm, lightning, earthquake, exposure to extreme weather conditions, electrical surge or improper voltage; (k) mobile phone performance issues resulting from cellular signal reception or transmission, (l) damage resulting from viruses, malware, trojan horses or other software problems; and (m) mobile phones in which the serial number is missing or has been altered, damaged or defaced. Warranty on the battery and accessories is 1 year. Sonim is a registered trademark of Sonim Technologies, Inc. Snapdragon is a trademark or registered trademark of Qualcomm Incorporated. Snapdragon and Qualcomm branded products are products of Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries. Qualcomm patented technologies are licensed by Qualcomm Incorporated. Android is a trademark of Google LLC. ### About Sonim TechnologiesSonim Technologies is a leading U.S. provider of rugged mobile solutions, including phones, wireless internet data devices, accessories and software designed to provide extra protection for users that demand more durability in their work and everyday lives. Trusted by first responders, government, and Fortune 500 customers since 1999, we currently sell our ruggedized mobility solutions through tier one wireless carriers and distributors in North America, EMEA, and Australia/New Zealand. Sonim devices and accessories connect users with voice, data, workflow and lifestyle applications that enhance the user experience while providing an extra level of protection. For more information, visit Media Contact Anette Gaven M: 619-993-3058 pr@ To view the source version of this press release, please visit
USA Today
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- USA Today
Kristen Bell and Dax Shepard's kids are allowed to swear — but there's a catch
Dax Shepard and Kristen Bell won't be washing any mouths out with soap. The "Armchair Expert" host revealed in a Monday, July 28 episode of the podcast that he curses in front of their two daughters, and in turn, they are "allowed to swear, not with impunity, but when it's called for." Shepard, 50, added that if the swearing is "in the house and not out at a restaurant, it's OK." "I just told the girls, like, 'Hey, these are noises that come out of your mouth, and you assign what they mean to you,'" he continued. The "Parenthood" star and Bell, 45, who married in 2013, share daughters Lincoln, 12, and Delta, 10. The "Nobody Wants This" actress has previously shared that the couple's children drink nonalcoholic beer, including at restaurants, since Shepard has become a fan of the drinks following his battle with alcohol addiction. Though Bell's initial reaction was that the behavior should stay at home, she told Kelly Clarkson on "The Kelly Clarkson Show" in 2021 that she wasn't concerned over perception: "You can judge me if you want, I'm not doing anything wrong." Shepard gave more insight into the couple's free-range parenting style in March, sharing that he and Bell's kids also ride motorcycles in their neighborhood. "Do whatever you want. I trust you, you know how to get home," Shepard said on the podcast in March. "You know how to flag a stranger. They've had really a ton of autonomy, I think, relative to other kids." Contributing: Morgan Hines and Rachel Hale
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Yahoo
Watch as Florida alligator crosses the road with to-go dinner in its mouth
Why did the alligator cross the road? To find a more comfortable place to eat, of course. An alligator was recently spotted crossing a road with its takeout meal, i.e., a giant carp, at a nature reserve in Apopka, Florida, about 15 miles northwest of Orlando, earlier this month. The gator, along with its catch, disappeared from view seconds after crossing the dirt road and easing itself back into the water. The clip below chronicles the gator's short journey with its lunch in tow. Alligators are carnivorous and live along the edges of permanent bodies of water, such as lakes, swamps and rivers. Watch alligator cross the road with takeout in tow Evelyn Bell, a visitor dangerously close to the action, decided to record the moment. She told video production company Ark Media that the interaction in Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive was the real-life equivalent of watching a nature documentary. "Moments like these remind me how incredible and unpredictable wildlife truly is," Bell shared with Ark Media. Bell initially posted the clip in an "Alligators of Florida" Facebook group, where users share alligator related content, on July 11. Bell, who saw the gator at a bridge, thought the apex predator "likely caught that carp in the canals nearby, where fish gather in shallow spots." "Just another wild day at Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive… and look who's hogging the right of way!" Bell wrote. "This bold gator casually strolled across the road—carp in mouth, like it's heading to a picnic." This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Florida gator crosses the road with jaw full of takeout dinner: Video Solve the daily Crossword
The Advertiser
3 days ago
- The Advertiser
Is Bali past its prime? This Asian region is on track to steal its thunder
Li River, Guilin, China. By Sarah Falson Updated July 29 2025 - 11:32am, first published 11:22am Asia is a perennial favourite with Australian travellers. Subscribe now for unlimited access. or signup to continue reading All articles from our website The digital version of Today's Paper All other in your area But with every second friend posting pictures of Indonesia (read: Bali) on Instagram, is the island nation beginning to lose some lustre? Australian Bureau of Statistics data shows Indonesia remains the most popular destination for Australians travelling overseas. In May, residents returned from 149,080 trips to Indonesia, far exceeding the next most popular destination, New Zealand, with 83,020 trips and with Japan the second most popular Asian country with 82,920 trips. So, is Japan primed to steal Bali's thunder? According to Wendy Wu Tours managing director, Simon Bell, Bali isn't losing its appeal as much as other Asian destinations are catching up to it. Mr Bell tips Japan as the next big thing, and only a matter of time before its popularity overtakes that of Bali. Kyoto, Japan. And it's not just Tokyo and Kyoto people are interested in visiting when they go to Japan; more Aussies are heading off the beaten path to explore "hidden gems like Kyushu" or taking rail journeys through the islands to take in the scenery. Read also: 'Safe and clean': Aussie fascination with Japan skyrockets "In 2024, a record-breaking 920,000 Australians travelled [to Japan], a huge 50 per cent increase from the year before. That momentum has continued into 2025, with April figures showing a 42.6 per cent year-on-year rise," Mr Bell said. Amber Fort, Juipur, India. Travel to China is also heating up, following the introduction of visa-free access for Australians. Mr Bell said there was a "sense of curiosity among travellers who want to see the real China for themselves, often finding it to be far more beautiful, welcoming and modern than expected". The top-five Asian destinations for Wendy Wu tours in 2025 are Japan, China, Vietnam, India and South Korea. Vietnam is emerging as a "laid-back, affordable alternative to Bali", Mr Bell said. Green Limestone Mountains in Halong Bay, Vietnam. And South Korea is gaining traction with food lovers, thanks to its "world-class cuisine". "From street eats in Seoul to ancient temples and scenic hikes, it's a destination packed with energy, tradition and flavour." Bali's popularity endures Bookings and search data from Skyscanner also shows Bali is the top destination for Aussies. Skyscanner Australia travel expert, Jarrod Kris, said its "unbeatable combination of accessibility, scenic locations and cultural richness," makes it a favourite with Aussies. "With frequent direct flights and short travel times, it's one of the easiest international getaways for Australians," he said. Sunset at Gyeongbokgung, South Korea. It's also affordable with many budget-friendly food and accommodation options. But beyond Bali, the top five Asian destinations being booked through the website for travel this year are: Bangkok, Thailand; Seoul, South Korea; Singapore; Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; and Manila, Philippines. "However, we're seeing growing interest in other interesting destinations, with Skyscanner's Travel Trends 2025 finding two Indonesian destinations increasing in popularity, Labuan Bajo and Yogyakarta, pointing to Aussies' shift to exploring places further from traditional tourist experiences," Mr Kris said. Words by Sarah Falson Sarah is ACM's travel producer. She believes regional travel is just as fun (if not better) than staying in the big cities and loves any travel experience to do with nature, animals and food!.My all-time favourite destination is ... Cornwall. From the giant seagulls to the blustery beaches, Cornish pasties and fishing villages, it stirs something romantic and seafaring in me. Next on my bucket list is … Mongolia. I want to go somewhere really unique that feels totally foreign and challenges my way of life. My top travel tip is … Don't plan too much. Walk the streets and let it happen. And make sure you check out what's within a few blocks of your hotel - sometimes the best local food is found that way.
