The CRTC has announced the unbundling of cable packages for Canadian consumers.   As part of the decision, all cable consumers will have access to a “Basic” cable package for $25.  Other channels can be purchased individually (pick-and-pay), or in small groups of channels.

Some of the specialty TV channels, such as children’s programming may not survive.

From the Canadian telecom service providers BCE, Rogers, Quebecor, Shaw, receive revenues from both TV distribution and broadcasting.  While Cogeco, MTS and Telus only receive revenues from the TV distribution.

Which customers will will or lose will depend very much on pricing and their viewing habits.  I am trying to figure out what this means for us at home!   These choices will be available for consumers by the end of next year.

For details on the CRTC announcement, see http://www.crtc.gc.ca/eng/archive/2015/2015-96.htm