Videotron appealing CRTC decision on unlimited music

Quebecor Inc.’s Videotron has appealed the federal telecom regulator’s decision to outlaw its mobile phone plans that let customers stream unlimited music without extra data charges, stating it faces irreparable harm if forced to cancel the plans by the imposed deadline.

A complaint about these plans sparked a 19-month proceeding at the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission over such data freebies. In April, the CRTC introduced rules to prevent providers from exempting certain content from data caps in the name of net neutrality, the principle that all data should be treated equally.

While Videotron initially said it was disappointed with the decision, its appeal doesn’t contest the new rules — it merely asks for more time to deal with the logistical nightmare the decision sparked. It’s the only provider dealing with the fallout, as similar offerings were limited given the spectre of regulatory action.

Videotron said Thursday it doesn’t take issue with the CRTC’s conclusion that the unlimited music plans violated law by giving undue preference to consumers who choose music over other content, according to an application to review, vary and stay the decision.

Instead, it argues it is impossible to axe the plans by the CRTC’s July deadline without a “huge disruption” to subscribers, including “tens of thousands” who have signed up for services since the CRTC started its investigation. It argues the commission didn’t consider the feasibility of getting rid of the plans quickly.

Videotron has stopped selling or renewing the plans, but asked the CRTC to grandfather the existing plans until the subscribers have paid off their handsets or at least give it more time to implement the changes.

Videotron wouldn’t say how many customers subscribe to its unlimited music plans, though its wireless subscriber count increased to 920,900 as of March 31 from 742,500 when the complaint was launched in September 2015.