:Freedom Mobile

File:WIND Mobile logo.png

In 2008, Globalive bid CAD $442 million to secure 3G spectrum at 1,700 MHz needed to launch Wind Mobile's network. Globalive, a Canadian telecommunications company, was primarily financed by the Egyptian corporation Orascom Telecom Holding and managed by Wind Telecom, which owns several other Wind-branded telecommunications companies.{{cite web |date=October 30, 2009 |title=Decision Reached in Rare Public Hearing Proceeding into the Ownership and Control of a Canadian Telecommunications Carrier |url=http://www.dwpv.com/en/17620_24366.aspx |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110928034548/http://www.dwpv.com/en/17620_24366.aspx |archive-date=September 28, 2011 |access-date=November 4, 2014 |website=Davies}} Ken Campbell, a former executive at Vodafone and Orascom, was appointed the first CEO of Globalive Wireless in 2008.{{cite web |last=O'Brien |first=Kate |date=October 31, 2008 |title=Ken Campbell steps in as CEO of Globalive Wireless November 1st |url=http://mobilesyrup.com/2008/10/21/ken-campbell-steps-in-as-ceo-of-globalive-wireless-november-1st/ |access-date=November 4, 2014 |website=MobileSyrup}} However, the company's launch was delayed due to a public ownership review by the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC), which found that Globalive did not meet Canadian ownership requirements, citing its reliance on Orascom for CAD $508 million in debt.Robertson, Grant. [https://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/globalive-fails-ownership-test-crtc/article1344210/ Globalive fails ownership test: CRTC]. The Globe and Mail. October 29, 2009. Retrieved October 29, 2009.Sturgeon, Jamie. [https://nationalpost.com/news/story.html?id=2331650 Wind Mobile takes off]{{dead link|date=January 2017|bot=InternetArchiveBot|fix-attempted=yes}}. National Post. December 11, 2009. Retrieved December 14, 2009.

On December 11, the Governor-in-Council, acting on the advice of then Minister of Industry Tony Clement, issued a final decision deeming that Globalive met the ownership requirements, allowing it to enter the Canadian market immediately.{{Cite web |date=2009-12-11 |title=Globalive ruling pulls down TSX as telecoms sag |url=https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/globalive-ruling-pulls-down-tsx-as-telecoms-sag-1.463507?cache=rsdredfkiqo%3FclipId%3D740678%3FautoPlay%3Dtrue%3FautoPlay%3Dtrue%3FcontactForm%3Dtrue%3FautoPlay%3Dtrue |access-date=2024-07-01 |website=Toronto |language=en}}

On December 14, Wind Mobile announced a partnership with Blockbuster in Canada, establishing Wind kiosks and offering prepaid products at 16 Blockbuster locations—13 in Ontario and 3 in Calgary.{{cite web |last=Bettiol |first=Michael |date=December 14, 2009 |title=Wind Mobile to team up with Blockbuster to sell handsets |url=http://bgr.com/2009/12/14/wind-mobile-to-team-up-with-blockbuster-to-sell-handsets/ |access-date=November 4, 2014 |website=BGR}}

On December 16, Wind Mobile officially launched its mobile service in Toronto, hosting a launch event at its Queens Quay store in downtown Toronto.{{cite news |last=Krashinsky |first=Susan |date=December 16, 2009 |title=Globalive's Wind Mobile keeps it simple |url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/technology/globalives-wind-mobile-keeps-it-simple/article4187291/ |access-date=November 4, 2014 |website=The Globe and Mail}} Two days later, on December 18, Wind Mobile expanded its service to Calgary, Alberta.

On March 4, 2010, Chris Robbins, Chief Customer Officer, resigned from Wind Mobile. While both Robbins and the company stated that the departure was due to strategic changes and his desire to pursue other business opportunities, analysts speculated that an executive departure so early suggested disappointing market penetration.Marlow, Iain. [https://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/wind-mobiles-chris-robbins-leaves-telecom-start-up/article1489533/ Wind Mobile's Chris Robbins leaves telecom start-up ]. The Globe and Mail. March 4, 2010.

Wind Mobile continued its expansion, launching in Edmonton on February 25, Ottawa on March 26, and Vancouver on June 3.{{Cite web |last=O'Brien |first=Kate |date=2010-03-26 |title=WIND Mobile officially opens doors in Ottawa |url=https://mobilesyrup.com/2010/03/26/wind-mobile-officially-opens-doors-in-ottawa/ |access-date=2024-07-03 |website=MobileSyrup |language=en}}{{Cite news |last=Nowak |first=Peter |date=Feb 25, 2010 |title=Wind Mobile launches in Edmonton |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/science/wind-mobile-launches-in-edmonton-1.870494 |work=CBC}}{{Cite news |last=Nowak |first=Peter |date=Jun 3, 2010 |title=Wind Mobile launches in Vancouver |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/science/wind-mobile-launches-in-vancouver-1.909866 |work=CBC}}

By early July 2010, Wind Mobile had reached 100,000 subscribers.{{Cite news |date=Aug 12, 2010 |title=Wind Mobile hits 100,000 subscribers |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/science/wind-mobile-hits-100-000-subscribers-1.910075 |work=CBC}}

On February 4, 2011, the Federal Court ruled in favour of competitors Public Mobile and Telus, declaring the Governor-in-Council's decision regarding Wind's Canadian ownership requirements improper.{{Cite web |last=Bureau |first=Richard J. |date=2011-02-04 |title=Court rejects ruling that allowed Wind Mobile to begin operating |url=https://www.thestar.com/business/court-rejects-ruling-that-allowed-wind-mobile-to-begin-operating/article_d9fb4110-93c9-50b2-aee8-f86a546c4a25.html |access-date= |website=Toronto Star |language=en}} On May 18, the Federal Court of Appeal heard arguments from Wind and the federal government to overturn the Federal Court decision. The appeal was successful, and the Federal Court of Appeal restored the Governor-in-Council's order, affirming Wind met Canadian ownership requirements.{{Cite news |date=Jun 8, 2011 |title=Court upholds Wind Mobile's right to exist |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/business/court-upholds-wind-mobile-s-right-to-exist-1.989150 |work=CBC}}

On March 17, shareholders of the Russian mobile operator VimpelCom supported a $6 billion deal to acquire Wind Telecom, which included Orascom Telecom, a significant shareholder in Wind Mobile. This transaction would create the world's fifth-largest mobile operator with over 173 million subscribers.{{Cite web |last=Jorbin |first=Aaron |last2=Haselton |first2=Todd |date=2011-03-17 |title=Russia's VimpelCom to acquire WIND Telecom for $6 billion |url=https://bgr.com/general/russias-vimpelcom-to-acquire-canadian-carrier-wind-for-6-billion/ |access-date=2024-07-02 |website=BGR |language=en-US}} In June 2011, Ken Campbell, Wind Mobile's founding CEO, resigned.{{cite web |last=Hardy |first=Ian |date=June 23, 2011 |title=Update: Ken Campbell departs WIND Mobile, Lacavera steps in as new CEO |url=http://mobilesyrup.com/2011/06/23/ken-campbell-resigns-as-ceo-of-wind-mobile/ |access-date=November 4, 2014 |website=MobileSyrup}}

On November 7, Wind Mobile launched a new advertising campaign with the slogan "That's the power of Wind."{{Citation needed|date=July 2024}}

On March 1, 2012, Wind Mobile refreshed its plan lineup. The Clever and Brilliant plans were eliminated, while Pay Your Way permanently included unlimited incoming calls on Wind's network. The mid-range Smart and high-end Genius plans lost their names and had some features altered. Only SMS messages sent to Canadian numbers were included, and all MMS or non-Canadian SMS became pay-per-use. The Wind 25 plan included 100 MB of mobile Internet access, while the Wind 40 plan featured 5 GB of full-speed mobile Internet instead of voicemail.{{cite web |last1=Hardy |first1=Ian |date=February 28, 2012 |title=WIND Mobile changing rate plans and add-ons March 1st, here are the details... |url=http://mobilesyrup.com/2012/02/28/wind-mobile-changing-rate-plans-and-add-ons-march-1st-here-are-the-details/ |access-date=2012-02-29 |publisher=Mobile Syrup}}

On January 18, 2013, Anthony Lacavera announced his transition from CEO to chairman of the company. At the same time, Wind Mobile disclosed reaching approximately 600,000 subscribers.{{cite web |last1=Thomas |first1=Shelley |date=2013-01-18 |title=Orascom Telecom to acquire AAL Corporation interest in WIND Mobile Canada; Anthony Lacavera to step down as CEO of WIND Mobile Canada, Plans to Launch Globalive Capital in 2013 |url=http://www.newswire.ca/en/story/1101183/orascom-telecom-to-acquire-aal-corporation-interest-in-wind-mobile-canada-anthony-lacavera-to-step-down-as-ceo-of-wind-mobile-canada-plans-to-launch-g |access-date=2013-01-18 |publisher=CNW Group}} VimpelCom initiated efforts to find potential buyers for Wind in March 2013.{{cite news |last1=Trichur |first1=Rita |date=2013-03-21 |title=Wind Mobile on block in new wireless shakeup |url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/vimpelcom-seeking-buyer-for-wind-mobile-report/article10062360/ |access-date=2013-03-21 |work=The Globe and Mail |location=Toronto}}

On April 10, Wind Mobile announced that it would withdraw from the Canadian Wireless Telecommunications Association. Mobilicity and Public Mobile also withdrew, alleging bias favouring competitors Bell, Rogers, and Telus.{{Cite web |title=3 carriers split from Canadian wireless group - National {{!}} Globalnews.ca |url=https://globalnews.ca/news/468252/trio-of-small-canadian-mobile-phone-carriers-split-from-industry-association/ |access-date=2024-07-02 |website=Global News |language=en-US}}

On June 19, 2013, Orascom Telecom, a VimpelCom subsidiary, retracted its application to assume full control of Wind Mobile, reversing an earlier decision.{{cite web |last1=Hardy |first1=Ian |date=2013-06-19 |title=Orascom withdraws application for complete control of WIND Mobile |url=http://mobilesyrup.com/2013/06/19/orascom-withdraw-application-to-takeover-complete-control-of-wind-mobile/ |access-date=2013-06-19 |publisher=MobileSyrup}} Later that month, reports emerged that Verizon Wireless had made a $700 million offer to acquire Wind Mobile, although Verizon later announced no interest in the Canadian wireless market.{{cite news |date=June 26, 2013 |title=Telecom shares slump after Verizon's $700-million bid for Wind |url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/international-business/us-business/verizon-offers-700-million-for-wind/article12815327/ |access-date=June 26, 2013 |work=The Globe and Mail}}{{cite news |last=Yew |first=Madhavi Acharya-Tom |date=2 September 2013 |title=Verizon not interested in Canada after all |url=https://www.thestar.com/business/2013/09/02/verizon_not_interested_in_canada_after_all.html |access-date=4 September 2013 |newspaper=Toronto Star}}

On September 4, reports surfaced that Wind Mobile was negotiating to acquire customers from struggling competitor Mobilicity as it prepared to cease consumer operations.{{cite news |last=Dobby |first=Christine |date=4 September 2013 |title=Mobilicity plans to transfer wireless users to Wind Mobile |url=http://business.financialpost.com/2013/09/04/mobilicity-plans-to-transfer-wireless-users-to-wind-mobile/ |access-date=4 September 2013 |newspaper=Financial Post}} Mobilicity denied these reports shortly after.{{cite news |date=4 September 2013 |title=Mobilicity denies it's transferring subscribers to Wind |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/business/mobilicity-denies-it-s-transferring-subscribers-to-wind-1.1343617 |access-date=13 September 2013 |newspaper=CBC News |agency=The Canadian Press}}

On January 13, 2014, VimpelCom, Wind Mobile's majority shareholder through its subsidiaries Wind Telecom and Global Telecom Holding, withdrew its financial support for Wind Mobile's bid in the Industry Canada 700 MHz spectrum auction due to a dispute with the Canadian federal government.{{cite news |author=Christine Dobby |date=13 January 2014 |title=Wind Mobile withdraws from 700 MHz spectrum auction |url=http://business.financialpost.com/2014/01/13/wind-mobile-withdraws-from-700-mhz-spectrum-auction/ |access-date=13 January 2013 |newspaper=Financial Post}}

By September 2014, VimpelCom sold its majority stake in Wind Mobile to AAL Acquisitions Corporation (a holding company controlled by Wind Mobile founder Anthony Lacavera) for $135 million, with the consortium also assuming $150 million of Wind's debt.{{cite web |date=16 September 2014 |title=VimpelCom and Global Telecom Holding to sell their interest in Wind Canada |url=http://www.gtelecom.com/ir-news-details?articleId=89021 |access-date=11 August 2015 |website=Global Telecom Holding}} Industry Canada approved the transaction in November 2014, transferring Wind's spectrum licences to AAL Acquisitions Corp.{{cite news |date=4 November 2014 |title=Wind Mobile buyout deal gets Ottawa's OK |url=http://www.cbc.ca/news/business/wind-mobile-buyout-deal-gets-ottawa-s-ok-1.2823682 |access-date=5 November 2014 |agency=CBC News}} These assets were subsequently transferred to Mid-Bowline Holdings Corporation, controlled by a consortium of investors including Globalive and several Canadian and American private equity firms.{{cite news |last1=Dobby |first1=Christine |date=16 December 2014 |title=Wind Mobile in 'normal situation,' poised to acquire spectrum: CEO |url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/wind-mobile-in-normal-situation-poised-to-acquire-spectrum-ceo/article22102740/ |access-date=17 December 2014 |work=The Globe and Mail}} Wind Mobile retained licensing rights to the Wind name and logo until 2016.{{cite journal |title=Canadian trade-mark data - 1464058 |url=http://www.ic.gc.ca/app/opic-cipo/trdmrks/srch/vwTrdmrk.do?lang=eng&status=&fileNumber=1464058&extension=0&startingDocumentIndexOnPage=1 |publisher=Industry Canada |access-date=13 August 2015 |website=Canadian Intellectual Property Office}}

In December 2014, newly appointed CEO Pietro Cordova outlined Wind Mobile's plans for expanding LTE services and participating in the Canadian Government's 2015 spectrum auctions, opportunities previously restricted under VimpelCom's ownership. Cordova also proposed acquiring underutilized spectrum from other companies such as Vidéotron Mobile and unused AWS spectrum purchased by Shaw Communications, as well as developing partnerships with providers like Mobilicity and Vidéotron to expand Wind's coverage.{{cite news |last1=Lewis |first1=Michael |date=16 December 2014 |title=Wind Mobile owners prepared to invest |url=https://www.thestar.com/business/tech_news/2014/12/16/wind_mobile_owners_prepared_to_invest.html |access-date=17 December 2014 |work=Toronto Star}} Cordova suggested the possibility of Wind Mobile pursuing an initial public offering in 2016 or 2017, pending approval from Mid-Bowline Holdings investors.{{cite news |last1=Shaw |first1=Hollie |date=16 December 2014 |title=Wind Mobile's CEO ready to bulk up network regardless of M&A opportunities |url=http://business.financialpost.com/2014/12/16/wind-mobiles-ceo-ready-to-bulk-up-network-regardless-of-ma-opportunities/?__lsa=bdf5-0d4b |access-date=7 January 2015 |work=The Financial Post}}

In February 2015, Wind Mobile entered negotiations to acquire Mobilicity ahead of the AWS-3 spectrum auction registration deadline, but talks stalled when Mobilicity's creditors demanded a high price for its assets. By January 30, 2015, discussions ended, and both companies registered independently for the auction.{{cite news |last1=Tedesco |first1=Theresa |last2=Pellegrini |first2=Christina |date=11 February 2015 |title=Wind Mobile rekindled talks to take over Mobilicity ahead of spectrum auction deadline |url=http://business.financialpost.com/2015/02/10/wind-mobile-rekindled-talks-to-take-over-mobilicity-ahead-of-spectrum-auction-deadline/?__lsa=b5b3-1994 |access-date=14 February 2015 |work=The Financial Post}}

When Industry Canada announced the results of the AWS-3 auction on March 6, 2015, Mobilicity had withdrawn due to funding constraints, allowing Wind Mobile to secure the entire spectrum block allocated for new entrants in Alberta, British Columbia, and southern Ontario for $56.4 million. This increased Wind's spectrum holdings in these regions by 180 percent.{{cite web |last1=Bader |first1=Daniel |date=6 March 2015 |title=WIND Mobile big winner in AWS-3 spectrum auction as Rogers, Mobilicity no-shows |url=http://mobilesyrup.com/2015/03/06/wind-mobile-big-winner-in-aws-3-spectrum-auction-as-rogers-mobilicity-no-shows/ |access-date=16 March 2015 |website=MobileSyrup}}{{cite news |last1=Evans |first1=Pete |date=6 March 2015 |title=Rogers buys no new spectrum as AWS-3 wireless auction raises $2.1B |url=http://www.cbc.ca/news/business/rogers-buys-no-new-spectrum-as-aws-3-wireless-auction-raises-2-1b-1.2983178 |access-date=16 March 2015 |work=CBC News}}

On March 23, 2015, Alek Krstajic, former CEO of Public Mobile, became the CEO of Wind Mobile, with Robert MacLellan, a former Toronto-Dominion Bank executive, appointed as chairman.{{cite news |last1=Dobby |first1=Christine |date=23 March 2015 |title=Wind Mobile replaces CEO, hands reins to former Public Mobile rival |url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/wind-mobile-names-new-ceo-shakes-up-board/article23576869/ |access-date=24 March 2015 |work=The Globe and Mail}} At that time, Wind's shareholders included Toronto hedge fund West Face Capital (35%), California-based Tennenbaum Capital Partners (31%), and Globalive Capital Voting Group (25%), which included Tony Lacavera's investment fund, along with other investors such as Alex Shnaider, Terrence Hui, and Michael Serruya.{{Citation needed|date=July 2024}}

Wind made headlines on June 17, 2015, as the first cellular provider to offer service in TTC subway stations, securing exclusive rights to the underground mobile system for one year through an agreement with BAI Canada.{{cite web |last1=Fox |first1=Chris |date=17 June 2015 |title=Wind Mobile inks exclusive deal to provide cell service to subway stations |url=http://www.cp24.com/news/wind-mobile-inks-exclusive-deal-to-provide-cell-service-to-subway-stations-1.2426266 |access-date=25 June 2015 |website=CP24}}

In June 2015, under Rogers Communication's acquisition of Mobilicity, Wind Mobile acquired AWS spectrum licenses from both Rogers and Mobilicity for provinces including British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and northern and eastern Ontario for a nominal fee of $1 per license.{{cite news |last1=Pellegrini |first1=Christina |date=24 June 2015 |title=Rogers Communications Inc gets green lights on Mobilicity deal from courts |url=http://business.financialpost.com/fp-tech-desk/rogers-communications-inc-gets-green-lights-on-mobilicity-deal |access-date=25 June 2015 |work=Financial Post}} Additionally, Wind gained an option to purchase half of Mobilicity's infrastructure for $25 million and executed a spectrum swap with Rogers, ensuring that both companies' AWS spectrum blocks were contiguous in southern Ontario.{{cite news |last1=Dobby |first1=Christine |date=24 June 2015 |title=Mobilicity deal positions Wind to compete with wireless Big Three |url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/mobilicity-deal-positions-wind-to-compete-with-big-three/article25101673/ |access-date=19 August 2015 |work=The Globe and Mail}}

Subsequently, on July 31, 2015, Wind sold newly acquired AWS-1 spectrum licenses to regional telecoms MTS and SaskTel for a total of $45 million, aiming to enhance regional competition and fund LTE network upgrades in British Columbia, Alberta, and Ontario.{{Cite web |last=Hardy |first=Ian |date=2015-07-31 |title=MTS purchases spectrum from Wind for $45 million |url=https://mobilesyrup.com/2015/07/31/mts-purchases-spectrum-from-wind-mobile-for-45-million/ |access-date=2024-07-02 |website=MobileSyrup |language=en}}{{Cite news |date=July 31, 2015 |title=SaskTel makes deal with Wind Mobile to increase bandwidth, speeds |url=https://www.cbc.ca/lite/story/1.3175534 |work=CBC}}

On December 16, 2015, Shaw Communications announced plans to acquire Wind Mobile's parent company, Mid-Bowline Group, for approximately $1.6 billion.{{cite news |last1=Dobby |first1=Christine |date=December 16, 2015 |title=Shaw to buy Wind Mobile for $1.6-billion |url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/incoming/shaw-buying-wind-mobile-for-16-billion/article27791628/ |access-date=December 17, 2015 |work=The Globe and Mail}} The acquisition required approval from Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada and the Competition Bureau. As part of the announcement, Shaw outlined several terms of the acquisition: Alek Krstajic, then-CEO, would continue to lead Wind as a division within Shaw, headquartered in Toronto as a distinct unit. Wind would remain as a budget-priced mobile carrier in the short term, and the ongoing upgrade from HSPA 3G to LTE would proceed as planned.{{cite news |last=Lewis |first=Michael |date=17 December 2015 |title=Shaw to keep Wind Mobile a discount mobile carrier |url=https://www.thestar.com/business/2015/12/17/shaw-to-keep-wind-mobile-a-discount-mobile-carrier.html |access-date=18 December 2015 |newspaper=Toronto Star |location=Toronto, Ontario}} Shaw Communications' CEO, Brad Shaw, stated that the acquisition would enable Shaw to compete on the same level as rival Telus in western Canada and gain a foothold in the Ontario telecom market.

The Competition Bureau approved the purchase on February 4, 2016, and Shaw completed the acquisition on March 1, 2016.{{cite news |title=Shaw enters wireless market with closing of Wind Mobile deal |url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/shaw-announces-closing-of-wind-mobile-deal/article28983065/ |access-date=2 March 2016 |work=The Globe and Mail}} Shaw funded part of the deal by selling Shaw Media to Corus Entertainment, also controlled by the Shaw family.{{cite news |title=Corus Entertainment acquires Shaw Media for $2.65-billion |url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/corus-acquires-shaw-media-for-265-billion/article28140989/ |access-date=13 January 2016 |work=The Globe and Mail}}

File:Freedom Mobile logo.svg

On November 21, 2016, Shaw announced that Wind Mobile would be renamed Freedom Mobile. The decision to rebrand was influenced by rising royalty fees for licensing the Wind name from VimpelCom. CEO Alek Krstajic explained that the company wanted to shed the "baggage" associated with the Wind name and use the rebranding to signify new ownership.{{cite news |title=Wind Mobile to become Freedom Mobile, launch faster network in Toronto, Vancouver |url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/wind-mobile-to-become-freedom-mobile-launch-faster-network-in-toronto-vancouver/article32954738/ |access-date=21 November 2016 |website=The Globe and Mail}} On the same day, Freedom Mobile announced the launch of LTE service on the AWS-3 band in Toronto and Vancouver.

In April 2017, Alek Krstajic stepped down as CEO and was replaced by Paul McAleese, whose title was later changed to Chief Operating Officer.{{cite web |last1=Hardy |first1=Ian |date=April 12, 2017 |title=Alek Krstajic is stepping down as CEO of Freedom Mobile |url=http://mobilesyrup.com/2017/04/12/alek-krstajic-ceo-freedom-mobile-departure/ |access-date=July 10, 2017 |website=MobileSyrup}}

On November 7, 2017, Freedom Mobile announced that LTE access would be enabled on all grandfathered 3G plans at no additional cost. This upgrade coincided with a national upgrade of Freedom's cell sites to utilize newly acquired 2500 MHz (Band 7) spectrum and the reallocation of some AWS-1 (Band 4) spectrum for LTE.{{cite web |last1=Behar |first1=Rose |date=November 7, 2017 |title=Freedom is enabling LTE for customers with grandfathered 3G plans |url=https://mobilesyrup.com/2017/11/07/freedom-enabling-lte-customers-grandfathered-plans/ |access-date=November 8, 2017 |website=MobileSyrup}}

In July 2020, Shaw began operating Shaw Mobile as an MVNO on the Freedom Mobile network in Alberta and British Columbia. The service was offered as part of a quadruple play with Shaw's television, Internet, and home phone services.{{Cite web |date=2020-07-30 |title=Shaw launches mobile service for existing internet customers in Alberta and B.C. |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/business/shaw-mobile-1.5668556 |access-date=2023-07-26 |website=CBC News}}{{Cite news |date=2020-07-30 |title=Shaw launches new mobile service for Alberta, B.C. |url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/business/article-shaw-launches-new-mobile-service-for-alberta-bc/ |access-date=2023-07-26 |work=The Globe and Mail |language=en-CA}}

Rogers Communications and Shaw Communications announced a $26 billion transaction on March 15, 2021, where Rogers would acquire all outstanding Class A and Class B shares of Shaw. The transaction, reflecting a 70% premium on Shaw's Class B share price, aims to boost 5G infrastructure in western Canada, create 3,000 jobs, and connect underserved communities. Rogers committed to not increasing wireless prices for Freedom Mobile customers for at least three years post-transaction. The transaction was expected to close in the first half of 2022, pending regulatory and court approvals.{{Cite web |title=Rogers set to buy Shaw in deal valued at $26 billion - National {{!}} Globalnews.ca |url=https://globalnews.ca/news/7696622/rogers-shaw-merge-deal/ |access-date=2024-07-02 |website=Global News |language=en-US}}

On April 21, 2021, Freedom Mobile announced an indefinite pause on its 5G network launch through a memo to its employees. The memo explained that the decision was necessary due to the highly competitive market and uncertainties regarding spectrum and infrastructure needed for future phases of the 5G rollout. Amid the pending Rogers-Shaw merger, Freedom Mobile's parent company opted out of the federal government's 5G spectrum auction.{{Cite web |date=2021-04-22 |title=Freedom Mobile to 'Indefinitely Pause' 5G Network Launch • iPhone in Canada Blog |url=https://www.iphoneincanada.ca/2021/04/22/freedom-mobile-to-indefinitely-pause-5g-network-launch/ |access-date=2024-06-24 |website=www.iphoneincanada.ca |language=en-US}}

On March 3, 2022, the federal government announced it would block the transfer of wireless licenses from Shaw Communications to Rogers Communications. Industry Minister François-Philippe Champagne expressed concerns that the $26-billion acquisition of Shaw by Rogers would reduce competition and increase cellphone bills for Canadians. The acquisition was being reviewed by three federal regulators: Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada, the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission, and the Competition Bureau.{{Cite news |last=The Canadian Press |first= |date=March 3, 2022 |title=Government won't allow Rogers to buy all of Shaw's wireless business |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/business/rogers-shaw-industry-minister-champagne-1.6372102 |work=CBC}}

On March 24, 2022, the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) approved Rogers Communications's acquisition of Shaw Communications's broadcasting services. This approval came with several conditions, including a $27.2 million contribution to various funds and the creation of an Indigenous news team. The CRTC concluded that the transaction would not reduce the diversity of voices in Canada or unduly affect the competitive landscape, deeming it in the public interest.{{Cite news |last=Deschamps |first=Tara |date=Mar 25, 2022 |title=CRTC approves Rogers acquisition of Shaw broadcast services, with conditions |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/business/crtc-rogers-shaw-broadcast-1.6397539 |work=CBC}}

On May 9, 2022, the Competition Bureau of Canada filed an application to block Rogers Communications's acquisition of Shaw Communications, arguing it would lead to higher prices, poorer service quality, and reduced choice for consumers, particularly in the wireless sector. The bureau's investigation found that the $26-billion deal would eliminate Shaw's Freedom Mobile, which it considered a strong independent competitor that has driven down prices and innovated in wireless services.{{Cite news |last=Deschamps |first=Tara |date=May 9, 2022 |title=Competition Bureau files court applications to block Rogers-Shaw merger |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/business/competition-bureau-rogers-shaw-merger-1.6446827 |work=CBC}}

On May 12, 2022, Québecor's CEO Pierre Karl Péladeau signalled that he would like to purchase Freedom Mobile if regulators force Rogers to sell it as a requirement of the merger's approval. On May 19, 2022, Globalive Capital founder Anthony Lacavera reinforced his bid for Freedom Mobile by signing a network and spectrum sharing agreement with Telus, conditional on Globalive's successful acquisition of Freedom. Lacavera founded Wind Mobile in 2008.{{Cite news |last=Posadzki |first=Alexandra |author-link=Alexandra Posadzki |date=2022-05-19 |title=Globalive strengthens bid for Freedom Mobile with Telus deal |url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/business/article-globalive-strengthens-bid-for-freedom-mobile-with-telus-deal/ |access-date=2022-05-19 |work=The Globe and Mail |language=en-CA}}

On June 17, 2022, Rogers Communications announced it would sell Freedom Mobile to Québecor for $2.85 billion, aiming to address regulatory opposition to its acquisition of Shaw Communications This deal included Freedom's wireless and Internet customers, infrastructure, spectrum, and retail sites.{{Cite news |last=R |first=Thomson |date=Jun 18, 2022 |title=Rogers Communications says it will sell Freedom Mobile to Quebecor for $2.85B |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/business/rogers-shaw-freedom-mobile-quebecor-1.6493541#:~:text=Rogers%20Communications%20says%20it%20will,for%20%242.85B%20%7C%20CBC%20News |work=CBC}}

On August 12, 2022, Rogers Communications, Shaw Communications, and Québecor finalized an agreement for Québecor's subsidiary, Vidéotron, to acquire Freedom Mobile. "The parties strongly believe the Freedom Transaction provides the best opportunity to create a strong fourth national wireless services provider and addresses the concerns raised by the Commissioner of Competition and the Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry regarding the Rogers-Shaw Transaction. With this Agreement, the new combined business of Vidéotron and Freedom will be well-positioned to launch a strong, competitive national 5G offering, using Vidéotron's 3500 MHz holdings."{{Cite web |last=Wellard |first=Paul |date=2022-08-12 |title=Rogers, Shaw and Quebecor Sign Definitive Agreement for Sale of Freedom Mobile |url=https://about.rogers.com/news-ideas/rogers-shaw-and-quebecor-sign-definitive-agreement-for-sale-of-freedom-mobile/ |access-date=2024-06-24 |website=About Rogers |language=en-US}}

On December 29, 2022, the Competition Tribunal rejected the Competition Bureau's attempt to block the merger, ruling that the consolidation of the two companies, along with the sale of Freedom Mobile to Vidéotron, would not significantly raise prices or reduce competition.{{Cite web |date=2022-12-29 |title=Competition Tribunal clears path for Rogers-Shaw merger |url=https://www.ctvnews.ca/business/competition-tribunal-clears-path-for-rogers-shaw-merger-1.6212480 |access-date=2024-06-24 |website=CTVNews |language=en}} On December 30, 2022, the Competition Bureau announced it would appeal the Competition Tribunal's decision.

On January 24, 2023, the Federal Court of Appeal rejected the Commissioner of Competition's bid to overturn the tribunal's approval of the Rogers-Shaw merger. The court ruled that the merger, which includes the sale of Freedom Mobile to Vidéotron, would not significantly impact prices or competition in Canada's telecommunications sector. Despite the Competition Bureau's objections, the court found no basis to overturn the tribunal's decision, paving the way for the merger pending final approval from Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada.{{Cite news |date=2023-01-24 |title=Federal court dismisses Competition Bureau's appeal of Rogers-Shaw takeover approval |url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/business/article-rogers-shaw-takeover-appeal-decision/ |access-date=2024-07-02 |work=The Globe and Mail |language=en-CA}}

On March 31, 2023, François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, gave the final regulatory approval to the deal by allowing the transfer of Freedom's wireless licences to Vidéotron. As part of these agreements and conditions, Vidéotron:

• Will, over a period of ten years, offer plans that are at least 20% cheaper than those offered by the incumbents in the British Columbia, Alberta and Ontario markets as of February 10, 2023;
• Cannot transfer the Freedom Mobile licences for a period of ten years;
• Invest more than $150 million to upgrade Freedom Mobile's infrastructure, which will, among other things, enable 90% of its current and future customers to access the 5G network using a compatible device within two years;
• Will expand mobile service into Manitoba via the use of a signed Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) agreement or other means and offer plans comparable to what it offers in Quebec;
• Will maintain prices for Freedom Mobile's existing customers for five years; and,
• Will increase data allotments of existing Freedom Mobile customers by 10% as a near-term bonus while it invests to bring down prices overall.{{Cite news |last=Evans |first=Pete |date=2023-03-31 |title=Rogers takeover of Shaw approved, with conditions |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/business/rogers-shaw-approval-1.6797175 |access-date=2024-10-20 |work=CBC News}}

Failure to comply with these conditions may result in substantial financial penalties, with Vidéotron facing potential damages of up to $200 million. Vidéotron and Rogers have also entered into commercial network-access agreements, which includes a MVNO and Domestic Roaming Agreement, on terms that will help Vidéotron compete more effectively as it expands in other regions of Canada.

The acquisition was completed on April 3, 2023. On July 24, 2023, Freedom Mobile launched 5G and nationwide unlimited plans, expanding its 5G network to cover over 12 million residents in the Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary and Edmonton metropolitan areas, along with select cities across Ontario, British Columbia and Alberta.{{Cite web |title=Freedom Mobile to offer 5G service through 2 new plans - National {{!}} Globalnews.ca |url=https://globalnews.ca/news/9861546/freedom-mobile-5g-plans/ |access-date=2024-07-02 |website=Global News |language=en-US}} On November 21, 2023, Freedom Mobile introduced the "Roam Beyond" plan, initially offering roaming in 73 countries.{{Cite web |date=2023-11-21 |title=Freedom Mobile Launches $65/60GB Global Roaming Plan • iPhone in Canada Blog |url=https://www.iphoneincanada.ca/2023/11/21/freedom-mobile-roam-beyond/ |access-date=2024-06-23 |website=www.iphoneincanada.ca |language=en-US}} By June 20, 2024, the plans expanded their coverage to include roaming in 92 countries.{{Cite web |date=2024-06-20 |title=Freedom Mobile Expands Global Roaming Plan to More Countries • iPhone in Canada Blog |url=https://www.iphoneincanada.ca/2024/06/20/freedom-mobile-global-roaming-plan-more-countries/ |access-date=2024-07-02 |website=www.iphoneincanada.ca |language=en-US}} 30-day "Roam Beyond Passes" are also available.

In May 2024, Freedom Mobile began to quietly launch home Internet and IPTV services resold from Vidéotron-owned VMedia in selected markets, allowing it to offer a triple play service. Péladeau stated that "making Freedom a 3-product player is a key milestone in our plan to give Canadians better telecommunications options and to foster healthy competition in more markets."{{Cite web |date=2024-05-07 |title=Freedom Mobile Internet and TV with Promo Pricing Lands May 7 [Update] • iPhone in Canada Blog |url=https://www.iphoneincanada.ca/2024/05/06/freedom-mobile-home-internet-tv/ |access-date=2024-06-24 |website=www.iphoneincanada.ca |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |last=Lamont |first=Jonathan |date=2024-05-07 |title=Freedom Mobile seemingly relaunching internet and TV packages [Update] |url=https://mobilesyrup.com/2024/05/07/freedom-mobile-relaunch-internet-tv-packages/ |access-date=2024-06-24 |website=MobileSyrup |language=en}}

On May 23, 2024, Freedom Mobile expanded its services into Manitoba as an MVNO, introducing wireless, home Internet, and TV options along with new retail locations in Winnipeg. Pierre Karl Peladeau, Québecor's CEO, emphasized the milestone as a significant move towards providing innovative and affordable telecom solutions to Manitobans, promoting competition in the region.{{Cite web |date=2024-05-23 |title=Freedom Mobile Expands to Manitoba, Offers $14.50 Canada-US Promo • iPhone in Canada Blog |url=https://www.iphoneincanada.ca/2024/05/23/freedom-mobile-manitoba-promo-plan/ |access-date=2024-06-24 |website=www.iphoneincanada.ca |language=en-US}} Alongside this launch, Freedom introduced the Subscription Area, expanding customer eligibility beyond the Freedom Network boundaries. Additionally, Freedom is required to build out its own network in region where it operates as an MVNO within seven years.{{Cite news |last=Evans |first=Pete |date=Oct 20, 2022 |title=CRTC outlines rules for virtual wireless companies — but they'll still need their own networks |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/business/crtc-mvno-rules-1.6622906 |work=CBC}}

In 2024, Freedom Mobile began deploying some 3500 MHz 5G sites in the Greater Toronto Area and Vancouver.{{Cite web |last=Freedom Mobile |first=JP |date=2024-06-21 |title=Hi, JP from Freedom here. Important correction to your comment. We don't brand 5G+ per se, but we have deployed 3500mhz 5G sites (commonly called 5G+ by the big 3) for weeks now. We have a couple in the GTA and, yes, they are fast. |url=http://www.reddit.com/r/freedommobile/comments/1dkjxmy/5g_or_5g/l9k8b3n/ |access-date=2024-06-24 |website=r/freedommobile}}{{Cite web |date=2024-07-02 |title=Freedom Mobile Rolling Out 3500 MHz '5G+' Like Rogers, Telus, Bell [Update] • iPhone in Canada Blog |url=https://www.iphoneincanada.ca/2024/07/02/freedom-mobile-rolling-out-3500-mhz-5g/ |access-date=2024-07-02 |website=www.iphoneincanada.ca |language=en-US}}

On July 25, 2024, Freedom Mobile revamped its wireless plans, introducing 5G access and U.S. and Mexico roaming to all monthly phone plans, with prices starting at $5 per month.{{Cite web |date=2024-07-25 |title=All Freedom Mobile Plans Now Include 5G, US and Mexico Roaming • iPhone in Canada Blog |url=https://www.iphoneincanada.ca/2024/07/25/all-freedom-mobile-plans-5g-us-mexico-roaming/ |access-date=2024-07-25 |website=www.iphoneincanada.ca |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |last=Lamont |first=Jonathan |date=2024-07-25 |title=Freedom's reworked plans all include 5G, Canada/U.S./Mexico roaming |url=https://mobilesyrup.com/2024/07/25/freedom-mobile-plan-rework-5g-canada-us-mexico-roaming/ |access-date=2024-07-25 |website=MobileSyrup |language=en}}

Freedom Mobile has a name sponsorship deal with an outdoor events venue on the Pacific National Exhibition grounds, to be opened in 2026.https://www.pne.ca/freedom-mobile-arch/

On January 28, 2025, Freedom Mobile refreshed their plan offerings with every plan now including 5G+.{{Cite web |last=Lamont |first=Jonathan |date=2025-01-28 |title=Freedom Mobile launches new, pricier plans with 5G+ and more data |url=https://mobilesyrup.com/2025/01/28/freedom-mobile-launches-new-pricier-plans-with-5g-and-more-data/ |access-date=2025-01-28 |website=MobileSyrup |language=en}}

{{further|UMTS frequency bands|LTE frequency bands}}

{{reflist|2}}

{{Commons category}}

• Wind Telecomunicazioni, the third largest mobile operator in Italy.
• Wind Hellas, the third largest mobile operator in Greece.

• {{Official website|}}

{{Shaw Communications}}

{{Quebecor}}

{{Canadian mobile phone companies}}

{{Canadian ISP}}

Category:Freedom Mobile

Category:Canadian companies established in 2009

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