Anindita Chatterjee
Toronto is preparing for a significant change in its telecommunication landscape with the introduction of a new area code. Starting April 26, 2025, residents and businesses will start receiving numbers with the new 942 area code, a necessary step to accommodate the growing demand for phone numbers in the city.
Need for New Area Code
The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) made the announcement on May 10, 2023, highlighting how the existing area codes—416, 647, and 437—would soon run out of available numbers. The CRTC’s relief planning committee projected that the current supply of phone numbers would reach exhaustion by April 2026, prompting the need for the new area code.
Kelly T. Walsh, the program manager for the Canadian Numbering Administrator, stated, “The introduction of a new area code creates millions of additional telephone numbers without affecting the existing numbers.” This change will provide residents with more options for new phone numbers while ensuring that existing numbers remain intact.
What to Expect with Area Code 942
For most residents, the transition to the new area code should be seamless. Here are some key points about the introduction of 942:
- Gradual Rollout: The 942 area code will be phased in, meaning that individuals who request new phone numbers may receive numbers with the new area code starting in late April 2025.
- No Changes to Local Calling Areas: The boundaries for local calling areas and how calls are dialed will remain unchanged. This means that local calls, long-distance calls, and special numbers like 911 will function just as they currently do.
- Coverage Area: The new area code will cover the same geographic region as the existing area codes.
The last time Toronto introduced a new area code was in March 2013 when area code 437 was added. The growth in population and mobile phone usage indicates that the demand for new phone numbers is not likely to slow down anytime soon.
Impact on Residents and Businesses
As Toronto welcomes area code 942, many local businesses and residents are gearing up for the change. The transition may initially prompt some questions for those looking to establish new lines of communication.
For businesses, this change could mean additional considerations for marketing, customer service, and branding. However, since existing area codes will not change, customers will likely continue using their familiar numbers without interruption.
Residents, especially those who frequently change their phone numbers for various reasons, may find having more options beneficial in the long run.
Additional Information for Ontarians
For Ontario residents, the upcoming area code change is a reminder of the continuous evolution of communication technology. The CRTC has assured that this change aligns with previous efforts to manage telecommunications resources efficiently.
While this will be a significant update, many Canadians are already accustomed to frequent changes in phone number systems across the country.
Conclusion
The introduction of area code 942 is a strategic move to ensure that Toronto can keep pace with its growing telecommunications needs. With millions of new numbers expected to become available, the CRTC aims to provide a smooth transition for residents and businesses alike. As we approach the rollout date, communities will need to stay informed about how this change will affect them, but they can rest assured that their existing numbers will remain unchanged. This adjustment will help Toronto remain connected in an ever-evolving digital landscape, ensuring that everyone continues to have access to essential communication tools
