Canada's Telus plans to launch 5G network using Huawei equipment

By Rachael Sharpe
published

Will Canada allow Huawei to supply 5G network equipment?

Telus launches 5G in Canada.
(Image credit: Telus)

Canadian telecom operator, Telus, has announced it will soon begin rolling out its 5G network – and its initial module will be with Huawei equipment.

Telus Chief Financial Officer Doug French said in a statement on Thursday: “It’s important for us to launch our network when the time is right...” He added that the company will continue to collaborate with the Canadian government in building the 5G ecosystem.

Huawei 5G backbone 

"Our initial module will be with Huawei."

Doug French, Telus

In the statement to CBC News, Telus said it is looking to diversify its suppliers as it builds up its 5G network, but at the time of launch the 5G backbone will be built on Huawei components. French said: "Telus will begin rolling out its 5G network shortly, and our initial module will be with Huawei."

It’s worth noting that Huawei components are already used on Telus's existing networks, so this proposal does follow a natural progression. Telus aim to rollout 5G mobile using Huawei gear by the end of 2020.

Reviewing 5G security implications 

The Canadian government is currently reviewing the implications 5G security and is yet to decide whether to allow Huawei to supply 5G network equipment - several of the country's allies have banned the equipment on national security grounds. Meanwhile, Telus has warned that the cost of setting up a 5G mobile network will be higher if the Huawei is banned.

Also on Thursday, US prosecutors accused Huawei of stealing trade secrets and helping Iran track protesters - Huawei CFO, Meng Wanzhou, is currently in Canadian custody awaiting a decision on his extradition to the United States.

5G technology will become rife in Canada this year, as now all three telecom companies have 5G plans.



Rachael Sharpe
Rachael Sharpe

Rachael is a British journalist with 17 years experience in the publishing industry. Since launching www.digitalcameraworld.com, she’s been freelancing, and working for some of the world’s best-loved websites and magazines including T3.com and TechRadar.com and has also had a book, iPad for Photographers, published. A regular contributor at 5Gradar, Rachael is following the 5G market closely. Find out more at www.rachaelsharpe.com