Mike (cellular network)

Mike (styled MiKE) was a Canadian mobile phone and push-to-talk network, launched in 1996 using the proprietary iDEN platform from Motorola. The network was initially launched by Clearnet in the Windsor to Quebec City corridor, while its roll-out in western Canada followed in 1997.[1] Telus Mobility acquired the Mike network through its acquisition of Clearnet in 2000.

In October 2013, Telus launched Telus Link, a push-to-talk service over HSPA, LTE, and wifi. This service runs on iOS, Android, and Blackberry devices, and is intended to replace the iDEN network. According to Telus, the iDEN network would remain active for at least two years after the launch of Telus Link.[2]

In January 2015, Telus started notifying its customers that the Mike network would be shut down on January 29, 2016.[3]

Network

The Mike national network served the most populated areas of British Columbia, Alberta, Quebec, and Ontario. It also provided limited coverage in Saskatchewan (near the Alberta border), Winnipeg, MB, Moncton, NB, Halifax, NS, and St John's, NL. The network was entirely digital, and supported voice, data, short messaging, and push-to-talk services anywhere there is coverage.

Competition

In April 2012, Bell launched a push-to-talk service over HSPA, and plans to launch a push-to-talk service over LTE.[4]

In October 2013, TELUS launched a push-to-talk service over 4G LTE which includes the ability to extend coverage over Wi-Fi. This is intended to replace the Mike service. [5]

In Saskatchewan, Sasktel operates Push-to-Talk, which operates on 4G phones.

Mike also competed against two iDEN service providers, which each serve a single metropolitan market. These service providers provide coverage in the metropolitan markets of Calgary, AB (Airtel Wireless Ltd.) and Toronto, ON (Fleetcom Inc.).

Subscriber identity cards

Newer models of iDEN utilized SIM cards, much like GSM networks. Mike used 128k cards, which came with all new devices designed for the network.

See also

References

  1. ↑ "Clearnet Introduces MiKE(TM): Integrated Wireless Technology That Will Save Businesses Time and Money". 27 September 1996.
  2. ↑ TELUS launches Link, the LTE-powered push-to-talk network
  3. ↑ Important Service Notice: Mike is retiring
  4. ↑ Bell’s PTT LTE network to go live “in the first half of 2013″
  5. ↑
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