Videotron appeals CRTC ruling to stop offering unlimited music service

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.