Just as we had reported earlier, Fido now has a new look and a whole new set of rate plans designed to make itself more accessible to those who are watching their budgets.

System access fees are out the door and in are low-priced $15/month 'all-in' plans. There are also unlimited text plans available that start off at $25/month. Current Fido subscribers need not worry as they may opt to continue with their existing plans.

As for the handset line-up, they've got a decent selection of phones, almost all of which are basic units and free on a 2-yr plan. If you fancy something a bit higher-end, Fido is still offering the Samsung Jack and the 3G iPhone. Overall, it's a good mix of devices that should appeal to a wide range of customers. While not as diverse as what the other discount carriers in Canada are offering, the selection is; for the time being, large.

Will the new strategy pay off for you the consumer and ultimately for Fido? Only time will tell.

'New' Fido celebrates the wireless customer and gives low prices a good home

TORONTO, Nov. 4 /CNW/ - Fido, Canada's fourth largest wireless carrier, today re-launched its services with new branding, a suite of high-value low-price plans and an exclusive customer 'owner's guarantee'. The new Fido brings more simplicity and predictability to Canadians' monthly wireless costs while offering low prices, market-leading customer care, and preferred capabilities for consumers to master their wireless destiny.

"For 12 years, Fido's been passionate about changing to meet Canadians'
wireless needs," said Sylvain Roy, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Fido. "Especially in these challenging economic times, Canadians want the best value in the wireless marketplace, so we're excited to unleash the new Fido with discount pricing, continued excellence in customer service, and a market-leading 'owner's guarantee'."

Fido's exclusive 'owner's guarantee' provides wireless customers the services they want to control their monthly wireless bills. This includes low prices, usage alerts, easy price plan switching, and the choice to have no term contract, along with the industry-leading benefits of FidoRewards.

The new Fido branding, logo and tagline deliver a strong visual identity while retaining the brand name, the dog imagery and the long-standing Fido attributes of loyalty, straightforwardness and trust. The taglines 'giving low prices a good home' and 'les bons prix font les bons amis' reflect Fido's commitment to deliver discount prices while providing the most caring customer service in Canada.

Beginning November 4, 2008, customers can choose from a suite of Fido's new straightforward 'all-in' price plans, from $15 per month, including plans with unlimited text messages that start at $25 per month. Existing Fido customers can also continue to enjoy their current plan with the benefits of great customer service and FidoRewards. For more information, visit www.fido.ca.