Most mobile phones in Canada contain software that prevents the consumer from using the phone on multiple networks. This is known as a ‘software lock’, and is installed prior to the point of sale by the mobile service providers. As of 2011, all three large Canadian service providers have adopted a similar practice to charge a fee to remove the software lock from phones. This fee applies even after the consumer’s service contract with the provider ends.
This thesis examines whether the practice of charging consumer a fee for removing the software lock after the contract expires is anti-competitive in Canada. Through examining economic theory and undergoing legal analysis, this thesis will argue that while the practice is clearly anti-competitive, it does not substantially lessen competition enough to be prevented under competition law. This thesis suggests that this industry practice should be prohibited through the passing of consumer protection legislation.
Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:TORONTO/oai:tspace.library.utoronto.ca:1807/33442 |
Date | 22 November 2012 |
Creators | Marrello, Byron |
Contributors | Iacobucci, Edward |
Source Sets | University of Toronto |
Language | en_ca |
Detected Language | English |
Type | Thesis |
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