MTS to launch faster 4G HSPA+ network in six new communities

Investment brings faster data speeds and more smartphones to rural and remote areas of Manitoba

Stock Symbol:  MBT

WINNIPEG, March 6, 2014 /CNW/ - MTS today announced plans to expand its 4G HSPA+ wireless network to six new rural Manitoba communities in 2014, including the town of Churchill. Once the new network goes live, residents will be able to download mobile apps and stream video in seconds thanks to data speeds that are up to five times faster than the current CDMA network.

"Our expanded 4G HSPA+ network will be a game-changer for MTS customers living and working in these communities," said MTS President Kelvin Shepherd. "They'll be able to use all the latest 4G devices and stream content just like our customers in Winnipeg."

"Churchill is thrilled that MTS is making this strategic investment in our community," stated Churchill Mayor Michael Spence. "Having access to up-to-date technology is critical to our success, and I'm delighted that our residents and the thousands of visitors that travel to Churchill each year will soon be able to use their 4G devices to stay in touch."

More than 4,000 people living and working in the following communities will benefit from this investment:

• Ebb and Flow First Nation
• Fisher River First Nation
• Churchill
• Snow Lake
• Bissett
• Middlebro

As Manitoba's leading local communications provider, MTS regularly upgrades its network and equipment to keep pace with changes in technology. This investment is part of MTS's plan to continue to bring advanced technology to more people and communities in Manitoba.

For more information about MTS's wireless services, please visit www.mts.ca/wireless.

About MTS
MTS is the leading full-service communications provider for residential and business customers in Manitoba. The company's suite of products and services include the latest in wireless technology, high-speed Internet, an award-winning IPTV service, voice services, home security, and an extensive range of business solutions.  A technology leader, MTS operates advanced wireless networks delivering the best coverage for Manitobans with its 4G, CDMA and Wi-Fi wireless networks and is investing to build out its extensive fibre-to-the-home network in over 20 Manitoba communities. MTS's momentum is fuelled by the knowledge, skills and spirit of its 3,000 Manitoba-based employees. With over 100 years of operations, MTS is rooted firmly in the community and is a proud sponsor of the MTS Centre, home to the NHL's Winnipeg Jets. MTS is wholly owned by Manitoba Telecom Services Inc. which is listed on the TSX (trading symbol: MBT). For information on MTS's products and services, please visit www.mts.ca.

Forward-looking Statements Disclaimer
This news release includes forward-looking statements and information (collectively, the "statements") about MTS's future network expansion plans that are subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions. As a consequence, actual results in the future may differ materially from any conclusion, forecast or projection in such forward-looking statements. Therefore, forward-looking statements should be considered carefully and undue reliance should not be placed on them. Examples of statements that constitute forward-looking information may be identified by words such as "believe", "expect", "project", "should", "anticipate", "could", "target", "forecast", "intend", "plan", "outlook", "see", "set", "pending", and other similar terms.

Factors that could cause anticipated opportunities and actual results to differ materially include, but are not limited to, matters identified in the "Material assumptions" section and the "Risks and uncertainties" section of the Company's 2013 Annual, and 2013 Annual Information Form, both of which are available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.

Please note that forward-looking statements reflect Management's expectations as at the date hereof. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

SOURCE: MTS Allstream

Media:  
Chelsea Ross 
Corporate Communications
204 958-3230
[email protected]