Xplornet Bringing Faster Internet speeds and 5G-ready services to rural New Brunswick in 2019

WOODSTOCK, NB, Aug. 3, 2018 /CNW/ - As early as next year, rural homes and businesses in New Brunswick will soon have access to the latest 5G-ready Internet technology capable of providing dramatically faster Internet services.

Premier Brian Gallant and Xplornet President and CEO Allison Lenehan today announced that New Brunswick will be the site of a new showcase for the latest 5G-ready technology, positioning the Province to be one of the first in Canada to access 5G services for its rural residents once the technology is available in 2019.

The announcement will see Xplornet Communications Inc., Canada's leading rural broadband provider and a proudly New Brunswick-based company, install and enable the latest wireless technology that will enable future 5G services, and bring speeds of 100 Megabits per second (Mbps) to rural communities in New Brunswick. 

The hybrid fibre wireless network will use 3500 MHz spectrum, which is the same spectrum being used for Xplornet's 5G trials currently underway.

"At Xplornet our mission is to enable rural Canadians to live where they want to live, and connect to what matters," said Allison Lenehan, President and CEO of Xplornet.  "5G technology is not just about cities – it is about all of the unique services it can enable wherever you are in Canada.  We are proud to be able to use the power of new technology and innovation to enrich people's lives, especially in our home Province."

The total cost of the project is $30 million.  The ratio of public to private investment is two thirds to one third, with the total contribution of the Province of New Brunswick being $10 million. 

We thank the Province for this important investment in the future of its rural communities," said Mr. Lenehan.  "Fast, reliable Internet connectivity in today's digital world is vital, especially in rural Canada.  We cannot wait to get started, making better Internet service available to our loyal customers, and bringing 5G services to our home Province."  

The first phase of the project will begin immediately and is expected to be completed by the end of 2019.

About Xplornet Communications Inc.

Headquartered in Woodstock, New Brunswick, Xplornet Communications Inc. is one of Canada's leading broadband service providers.  For over a decade, Xplornet has been providing innovative broadband solutions to rural customers at work, home and play across Canada.  Today, Xplornet offers voice and data communication services through its unique wireless and satellite network that connects Canadians to what matters.

SOURCE Xplornet Communications Inc.

For further information: James Maunder, Vice President, Public Affairs and Communications, [e-mail]