Switching providers should help you save money without adding a pile of paperwork. Extra charges, locked devices and cancellation problems can still make leaving complicated. From mid-August through early September, three CRTC files covered by PlanHub moved forward. Here is what they mean for consumers.
Phone locking: a temporary two-business-day allowance
Since August 14, carriers have temporarily been allowed to sell locked phones if they unlock them automatically within two business days of purchase. Customers retain the right to request a free unlock before that deadline. Carriers must also explain the restrictions. The measure does not authorize a general 60-day lock: the CRTC is examining Bell and Virgin Plus’s practice, which began in April 2025. CRTC Notice 2026-210
Bell, Rogers and TELUS must explain certain charges
The ban on activation and plan-modification fees took effect on June 12, 2026, with limited exceptions, including certain optional products and services. CRTC Policy 2026-43 The CRTC is examining whether these charges comply:
| Carrier | Charges identified in the proceeding |
|---|---|
| Bell | $40 device-handling charge |
| TELUS | $15 SIM or eSIM charge |
| Rogers | $40 device setup charge, $25 shipping charge and certain SIM charges |
The carriers maintain that their fees comply. If violations are found, the CRTC is considering compliance orders and monetary penalties. These are potential measures, not fines already imposed. CRTC Notice 2026-155
The fee consultation has reached another milestone
Public interventions closed on August 31. The amended notice sets September 10 as the deadline for the companies’ replies. That is a procedural milestone, without a promised decision date. CRTC Notice 2026-155-2 Our latest update highlighted a discrepancy: the consultation index lists September 8. This recap uses the date in the formal notice. CRTC consultation index
Internet cancellations: better coordination between providers
On September 4, the CRTC approved a standardized cancellation process for Internet services sold by wireless providers, including some wireline services marketed under their brands. It aims to reduce errors and identify the correct service within accounts containing multiple subscriptions. Affected providers must display a unique service identifier on invoices or customer portals by September 4, 2027. CRTC Decision 2026-232 Customers have already been able to authorize a new provider to submit a cancellation request under rules introduced in 2011. CRTC Policy 2011-191
What you can do now
Before switching, request a breakdown of charges, keep confirmations and clarify when your old service will end. If you financed your phone, check the remaining balance: unlocking does not pay off the device. The Wireless Code Public comments on the locking proceeding remain open until September 14, with replies scheduled for September 24. CRTC consultation 2026-210 To assess your options, compare cell phone plans and home Internet plans on PlanHub, taking the total cost into account.
