Every TTC subway station is now equipped for cellphone service, allowing transit users to chat and text while they wait for their next train. But while the TTC is hailing it as a milestone with the potential to significantly improve the travel experience of millions of customers, the country’s three main cell providers have yet to get on board with the project, which means for now most transit riders will be unable to make use of the underground cell network. The TTC and BAI Canada will announce Wednesday morning the telecommunications firm has completed the installation of “cellular connectivity infrastructure” at all of Toronto’s 75 subway stops, the Star has learned, including the six new stations on the Line 1 (Yonge-University-Spadina) extension set to open Sunday. The 4G/LTE coverage extends to all public areas of stations, including platforms, mezzanine levels, and stairwells. “It’s good news. It’s something that’s been a long time coming and I certainly know that our customers, it’s something that they constantly ask for,” said TTC Chair Josh Colle in an interview.He said that “everyone’s trip is a little longer than they’d like” and he hoped that providing access to cell service would make for “a more endurable, or even better, a more enjoyable trip.” However, so far Freedom Mobile is the only cell carrier that has reached agreement with BAI to make use of the cellular network. Cellphone users with Telus, Rogers, and Bell, which together control about 90 per cent of the national market, won’t have access. BAI chief executive officer Ken Ranger said his company has had “periodic conversations” with the big three providers about an agreement, but wouldn’t disclose any details.A Rogers spokesperson wouldn’t say whether the company planned to sign a deal with BAI now that all subway stations are equipped. “We’re focused o ...
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