Starting next month, Bell's cellphone network will be able to support both of the major network technologies used around the world. These include their current CDMA/EV-DO network, used to offer "3G" internet speeds to the Blackberry Storm and Palm Pre, and a GSM/HSPA network, similar to the one used by Rogers and Fido. The change means Bell will no longer have to take a pass on popular handsets, like Apple's iPhone, and so they can expand their selection of cellphone designs and improve the speed of their wireless internet service. No specific date has been given for the change-over, Bell merely announced that it will happen "starting in November" and that customers can expect a range of new smartphones, turbosticks, and other mobile devices to follow. 

Although it was known that both Telus and Bell were planning to make the change, Bell's original announced timeline was set for the 2010 Olympics next year, making next month's launch a bit of a surprise. Despite the advanced schedule, Bell says they will deliver HSPA service at 21 Mbps to "93% of the Canadian population" in "almost 20,000" cities, including both rural and remote locations. 

For both Bell and Telus, the change towards using GSM-based networks will allow them to move from today's 3G (third generation) data connections to the upcoming 4G (fourth generation) technologies.  

“Together with our existing EVDO 3G network – already Canada’s largest – HSPA will allow Bell to offer Canadians the best of all wireless worlds: the international reach of HSPA supporting full global roaming, the superior North American coverage offered by EVDO and the unique mobile products produced for each network technology” said Wade Oosterman, President of Bell Mobility and Chief Brand Officer for Bell.