Why We’re Saying Goodbye to Our Legacy Internet Plans in 2026
If you’ve been with us for a while, you probably remember our trusty Net 10 and Net 15 plans. They’ve served Drumheller and surrounding areas faithfully for years. But as of January 1, 2026, we’ll be retiring these legacy plans for good.
We know change can feel inconvenient, but this upgrade is about making your online life easier. So, let’s talk about why this is happening, what it means for you, and why upgrading is more than just a nice-to-have, it’s essential for life online today.
Key Points:
- Legacy plans (10 Mbps and 15 Mbps) end January 1, 2026.
- Modern internet requires higher speeds for streaming, smart devices, and everyday browsing.
- Drumheller and rural Alberta are catching up to national standards—don’t get left behind.
- Upgrading means better performance, reliability, and peace of mind.
- Get one month free if you upgrade by the end of 2025.
Why Are We Retiring These Plans?
Simply put: the internet has changed, and so have we.
When we first introduced 10 Mbps and 15 Mbps packages, they were considered solid options for browsing, emailing, and even streaming in standard definition. Fast-forward to 2025, and those speeds just don’t cut it anymore.
Here’s why:
- Websites and apps are heavier. Pages today load high-resolution images, videos, animations, and interactive content. Even simple tasks like checking the news or scrolling social media demand more bandwidth than they used to.
- Streaming quality has skyrocketed. Netflix, Disney+, and YouTube now default to HD or even 4K. That means higher bitrates, which eat up your bandwidth fast.
- Background data is everywhere. Your devices are constantly syncing, updating, and communicating, even when you’re not actively using them.
- More devices are online. Smart TVs, security cameras, thermostats, voice assistants, tablets, and phones all stay connected. Each one takes a slice of your “internet pie.”
- Internet standards have evolved. Modern apps and services assume you have speeds well above 15 Mbps. Slower plans simply can’t keep up.
The truth is, 10 or 15 Mbps speeds are no longer enough for the way we live, work, and play online.
What Does This Mean for Drumheller and Area?
Drumheller isn’t immune to the digital shift. In fact, rural Alberta has been working hard to close the connectivity gap. The federal Universal Broadband Fund aims to bring high-speed internet (50 Mbps download and 10 Mbps upload) to 98% of Canadian households by 2026, with a goal of 100% by 2030. 1, 2
Why? Because the average Canadian household now uses hundreds of gigabytes of data every month, 3 and most families have multiple devices online at once.
If you’re still on a legacy plan, you’ve probably noticed:
- Video calls freeze or drop.
- Streaming buffers endlessly.
- Downloads crawl.
- Smart home devices lag or disconnect.
It’s not your router. It’s not your provider throttling you. It’s simply that your plan isn’t built for today’s internet.
What Happens If You Stay on a Slow Plan?
Think of your internet like a highway. Ten years ago, a two-lane road was fine. Today, traffic has exploded. If you’re still on that two-lane road, you’re stuck in gridlock while everyone else is cruising on a six-lane expressway.
Staying on a 10 Mbps or 15 Mbps plan means:
- Frustration during peak hours. When everyone’s streaming or gaming, your speeds will feel even slower.
- Limited access to new services. Many apps and platforms assume you have higher speeds. Some features may not work at all.
- Security risks. Outdated equipment and slower connections can make it harder to keep devices updated and secure.
What Are Your Options?
Here’s the good news: better plans are available right now.
At Aerial Internet, we offer packages designed for modern households in Drumheller and surrounding communities. While our legacy plans are capped at 10 or 15 Mbps, our current plans start much higher and include unlimited data, because we know data caps are a headache.
Typical options include:
- Basic plans for light users who browse and email.
- Mid-tier plans for families who stream, game, and work from home.
- Premium plans for heavy users, smart homes, and multiple devices.
Why Upgrade Now?
Upgrading isn’t just about speed, it’s about quality of life. Faster internet means:
- Smooth streaming and video calls. No more buffering or pixelated faces.
- Better work-from-home experience. Upload large files, join meetings, and collaborate without stress.
- Smart home convenience. Cameras, thermostats, and voice assistants work reliably.
- Future-proofing. As technology evolves, you’ll be ready.
What If You’re Worried About Cost?
We get it, budget matters. But here’s something to consider:
- Legacy plans often cost more per megabit. You’re paying for outdated technology that delivers less value.
- Modern plans offer unlimited data. No surprise overage fees.
- Better performance saves time. Faster speeds mean less waiting, which matters if you work from home or run a business.
- Reliability. Many people on our legacy plans frequently run into issues related to slow speeds or outdated hardware, leading to high call volume for our support team.
Plus, we regularly offer promotions and flexible options to make upgrading easier. If you upgrade before January 1, 2026, you’ll get one month free!
The Bottom Line
Retiring our Net 10 and Net 15 plans isn’t about forcing change, it’s about keeping Drumheller connected to the future. The internet isn’t slowing down, and neither should you.
If you’re ready to upgrade or just want to chat about your options, give us a call. We’ll help you find a plan that fits your needs and your budget.
Final Thoughts
As Drumheller continues to embrace digital tools and stronger connectivity, the opportunities for growth are endless. Reliable internet isn’t just a convenience, it’s the foundation for thriving businesses, engaged communities, and innovative ideas. The future here is connected, and it’s looking bright.
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