Videotron

Videotron Mobility: Canada’s New National Carrier

Canada’s wireless industry, long dominated by Rogers, Bell, and Telus, now has a powerful new competitor. Videotron Mobility, once recognized mainly within Quebec for internet and cable, stepped onto the national stage after acquiring Freedom Mobile in 2023. Today, Videotron is present in major cities such as Montreal, Toronto, Calgary, and Vancouver, and it is shaking up the market with aggressive pricing, generous data allowances, and a growing 5G network. For Canadians seeking an alternative to the Big Three, Videotron represents a fresh and disruptive option.

From Regional Success to National Expansion

Videotron is part of Quebecor, one of Canada’s largest media and telecommunications groups. For years, it built a strong reputation in Quebec by offering reliable internet, TV, and mobile services at competitive rates. Its customer-first approach and consistent performance helped it secure loyalty across the province. The real breakthrough came with the Rogers–Shaw merger, when regulators required Shaw’s wireless division, Freedom Mobile, to be sold. Videotron seized this opportunity, gaining infrastructure and millions of customers across Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia. Since then, the company has invested billions to modernize Freedom’s network and expand its 5G coverage, turning itself into a legitimate national carrier almost overnight.

Understanding Videotron’s Network

Home Network Coverage

Videotron operates its own towers in Quebec and Ottawa, while also running on Freedom Mobile’s infrastructure in Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia. In these zones, customers enjoy the best possible experience with access to full 5G speeds, unlimited usage, and reliable performance that rivals any of the Big Three.

Nationwide Roaming

Outside of its home zones, Videotron relies on roaming agreements with Rogers, Bell, and Telus. Most of its plans include a set amount of “Nationwide” data for use on these partner networks. Once the allowance is consumed, data may pause or require a top-up, although unlimited talk and text remain available. This keeps costs low but may pose challenges for rural residents or those who frequently travel outside major urban areas.

Plans and Pricing

All-Inclusive Plans

Videotron’s wireless plans are designed to be simple and competitive. Customers benefit from:

• Large data allowances: Plans typically include more data than similar offerings from Rogers, Bell, or Telus.
• Full 5G access: Unlike some flanker brands, Videotron does not artificially throttle speeds on its main plans.
• No overage fees: When you reach your high-speed data limit, speeds slow instead of triggering extra charges.
• Added extras: Many plans include features like international calling minutes and unlimited global MMS.

Device Financing

Customers can purchase the latest smartphones through 24-month, interest-free financing. Promotional credits are sometimes applied to reduce monthly costs, making premium devices more affordable for budget-conscious buyers.

Travel and Roaming

Videotron offers Daily Traveller Passes, which allow you to use your Canadian plan while abroad in the U.S. or in over 100 international destinations. This fixed daily fee structure mirrors competitors’ roaming programs and adds flexibility for frequent travellers.

The Helix Bundle Advantage

In Quebec and Ottawa, Videotron customers can bundle mobile service with Helix Internet and TV. Powered by Comcast’s Xfinity technology, Helix delivers high-speed internet and IPTV features such as smart WiFi, streaming integration, and a cloud PVR. Customers who bundle services unlock permanent discounts on their mobile plans, making Videotron one of the most affordable full-service providers in Quebec. At the moment, this advantage remains exclusive to Quebec and Ottawa and is not yet available nationwide.

Customer Service and Experience

Videotron has consistently built a reputation for responsive customer service. Reports from the Commission for Complaints for Telecom-television Services (CCTS) show fewer complaints relative to its size compared to some competitors. Customers can access support through phone, live chat, social media, or in-person at retail stores. The “My Account” mobile app adds convenience, giving users control over billing, usage, and plan management. As the company expands nationwide, maintaining this high service quality across new markets will be one of its greatest challenges.

Videotron vs. the Competition

Videotron vs. the Big Three

Rogers, Bell, and Telus still hold the edge in rural coverage and long-established nationwide reliability. However, Videotron’s biggest advantage lies in its aggressive pricing and large data buckets. For urban Canadians, the value proposition is often stronger with Videotron than with the Big Three.

Videotron vs. Flanker Brands

When compared with Fido, Koodo, and Virgin Plus, Videotron often offers similar prices but includes full 5G access rather than limiting speeds. This positions Videotron as a “premium value” choice, balancing affordability with performance.

Is Videotron Right for You?

Videotron is a compelling choice for Canadians who prioritize value and data without sacrificing reliability in urban areas. It’s best suited for those who:

• Live in Quebec and can bundle services with Helix for extra savings.
• Spend most of their time in urban centres such as Toronto, Montreal, Calgary, or Vancouver.
• Rely on large data allowances but want to avoid the higher costs of the Big Three.
• Are existing Freedom Mobile customers benefiting from ongoing network improvements.

On the other hand, it may not be the best fit for rural residents, frequent travellers outside its core coverage zones, or those seeking bundle options outside Quebec.

Final Verdict

Videotron Mobility has transitioned from a strong regional player to a true national competitor. With its customer-first reputation, generous data plans, and growing 5G investment, Videotron offers one of the most attractive alternatives to Canada’s established carriers. While rural coverage still trails Rogers, Bell, and Telus, the carrier’s entry into the national market marks a turning point in Canadian wireless competition. For millions of Canadians, Videotron is now a smart, affordable, and reliable choice for mobile service.