8 in 10 Canadians expect connectivity even when they want to unplug: Rogers survey

Rogers has released a new survey that provides some insight into what Canadians look for the most when it comes to cellular coverage during travel.

Most notably, the survey, which was conducted through Angus Reid Forum, found that eight in 10 Canadians expect connectivity even when they want to unplug. In particular, respondents said they want to stay connected for the following reasons:

• Maps and navigation (78 per cent)
• Texting and messaging (62 per cent)
• Emergency services (60 per cent)
• Phone calls (55 per cent)
• Weather apps (55 per cent)

Overall, 65 per cent of respondents said they expect basic, reliable connectivity for calls, texts and navigations when travelling in rural or remote areas. Moreover, 85 per cent of respondents noted that reliable connectivity would make them feel safer in remote areas, while about 50 per cent of participants said having remote connectivity would make them more likely to explore these kinds of destinations.

Interestingly, 75 per cent of respondents said they plan to travel within Canada instead of travelling outside of the country, with four in 10 saying they’ll go to remote or off-the-grid areas. Two-thirds of people also said they plan to travel by car this summer.

Rogers is publishing this survey to promote its Satellite technology, which the carrier says it a first of its kind satellite-to-mobile service in Canada that grants connectivity outside of normal cellular coverage areas for services like text-to-911, social media and Google Maps. Rogers notes that only 18 per cent of Canada is covered by traditional wireless networks, underscoring the need for this sort of satellite technology.

Rogers says the survey was conducted between June 17 and 23 among 1,015 Canadians in English and French.

Image credit: Rogers