Hey everyone!
We have good news to share: the new iOS update (12.1.1) restored the carrier selection option. You just need to update your phone from iTunes or in your settings and you'll be able to manually select a network again! 
I can confirm after updating to iOS 12.1.1, Network Selection is now available under Settings > Cellular!
Hello again,
@cody_w wrote:.... I was out in the sticks and only had 3G and knew Telus had LTE coverage but I couldn’t manually switch to “Fido EXT”....
Are you sure you are supposed to be able to switch providers as you suggest. I understand that you have always been able to switch providers as you wished previously. However, is it possible that was an iOS loophole they're trying to close?
The domestic roaming deals were originally signed between Rogers (including Fido), Bell, Telus and Videotron to extend coverage and offer seamless roaming between carrier partners in areas with poor or absent service. If you have 3G coverage, you have coverage.
With android, I have never been able to register on Fido-EXT if I have adequate Fido/Rogers coverage.
If I have poor or no Fido/Rogers coverage, I have been able to manually switch to Fido-EXT. However, if I do have home network coverage, the other providers simply refuse to register the device on their networks.
It's possible that Apple's Global database has been inadvertently allowing extended coverage use in situations where it was never intended.
As far as I am aware, the manual selection option is available when roaming outside of Canada. That further suggests that the issue has to do with the Canadian roaming agreements. I understand the option to manually select networks is available with the other providers. I'm not saying they shouldn't reinstate the functionality. There are certainly situations where it might be necessary to manually gain access to extended coverage. However, don't be surprised if the other providers find a way to restrict network registration if you have adequate home coverage. Don't you think Telus would prefer you pay them for using their services rather than Fido? After all, it is extended coverage, not alternative coverage.
I'm sure some people will disagree, but it is something to consider...
Cheers
Hey @cody_w!
If you're in an area where we offer coverage then connecting to Extended coverage would not be an option as we offer service in that location. For info on where extended is offered we suggest checking out coverage map here
This said, 3G coverage does allow you to browse and use your phone just like you would on LTE; although speeds may be a little slower you're still well within coverage and this should not prevent you from using your services.
We'd really hate to see you go over this and we can look into why your 3G service was not working well. We'll send you a PM
See you there!
Hello again,
@cody_w wrote:...So to you 3G may mean coverage, to me it means switch to Fido-EXT....
And to Telus, that might mean breach of roaming agreement...
As previously mentioned, I don't think it's Fido or Rogers who do not wish you to use the other networks while within their coverage. It's more likely the other networks who would like to prevent unnecessary roaming. Just because Fido/Rogers say they will reinstate the manual selection functionality does not mean Telus (or Bell, or Videotron) won't find a way to restrict access on their networks if within Fido/Rogers coverage. They already do with android.
Cheers
Hey @Kraven
The option to select the network is still available when you're roaming so you can still choose the roaming network you want to use. When you're on our network, the phone always prioritize our network and will automatically switch to the extended network when if you travel to an area where the Fido network is not available.
Hey @cody_w
As we mentioned, we're working on adding this feature back. When the features becomes available again, this thread will be updated.
Hello,
@Kraven There are two groups wanting this functionality restored. You apparently wish to manually select the Fido network to prevent roaming. On the other hand, there are others who wish to selectively roam when they are not happy with their coverage.
@cody_w I'm sorry, but you're the one who seems to be missing the point. Extended coverage use is only meant for when you don't have Fido/Rogers coverage. It is not meant to be used simply because you do not like 3G coverage. Just be cause you've always had the ability to choose doesn't mean you were supposed to have been able to choose. Again, it's extended coverage, not alternate coverage. Have you considered that after all those years, Telus (or the other providers) might be pressuring Fido/Rogers to limit unnecessary roaming? If you regularly are in areas where you do not like Fido/Rogers coverage, perhaps they're not the right provider for your needs. It's a common misconception that any provider will suit everyone everywhere.
Again, I'm not saying that they shouldn't reinstate the functionality. However, it's a little more complicated than merely adding it back. Measures will likely need to be added to prevent the misuse of unnecessary roaming.
Cheers
