The Quebecor subsidiary chose the South Korean technology conglomerate to develop LTE Advanced and 5G networks in Quebec and Ottawa. It will start making services available in the second half of 2020. (The Logic)

Talking point: The deal marks Samsung’s first foray into Canada’s telecom infrastructure network, which is currently dominated by China’s Huawei and Europe’s Nokia and Ericsson. It comes as the federal government investigates the national security implications of allowing Huawei access to Canada’s 5G networks, given its ties to the Chinese state. While Ottawa weighs its decision, Huawei has doubled down on its R&D commitments in the country, announcing plans to move its U.S. research facility to Canada and increasing its spending in the space. Huawei proponents point to the company’s pricing advantage, making it a favourite to supply less monied remote and rural communities. Samsung’s presence, however, increases competition in the market, which could lower costs across the board.