OPTUS SERVES UP DOUBLE HEADER 4G NETWORK FOR THE OPEN

Optus 4G and 4G Plus delivers capacity for huge demand on mobile data

Optus is anticipating a rally of mobile data at the Australian Open in Melbourne Park this weekend, as the number of users on its network surges in the lead up to the quarter finals. In the two full weeks of competition, Optus predicts double the amount of 3G and 4G data (a 101 per cent increase) will cross its network, in comparison to last year’s Open. Network traffic is expected to peak this weekend, as tennis fans and party revellers enjoy the matches and festivities in the main arenas, show courts and around the Melbourne Park precinct. For the first time ever at the Australian Open, tennis goers can enjoy the extra capacity of Optus’ new 4G Plus network on their compatible 4G Plus devices. “The demand for mobile data during the Australian Open is huge, as more of our customers stream, tweet, Facebook and Instagram their way through the two weeks of competition,” said Vic McClelland, Managing Director of Optus Networks. “To support the demand, we’ve turned on new mobile sites specifically for this year’s Open, and added significantly more capacity and transmission into the existing network to make sure those photos and videos get where they need to go.”

4G Plus serves up a treat

Optus 4G Plus has been switched on at sites around Melbourne Olympic Park and at the grounds around Rod Laver Arena. Network capacity at Margaret Court Arena and on the show courts has also been boosted, providing even more 4G and 3G coverage than ever before. “Having not just one, but two high capacity 4G networks at play during this year’s Open means that customers using 4G and 4G Plus devices can have a better data experience on their phones and tablets,” Mr McClelland explained. 

As customers embrace data connections such as social media and video calls, Optus network forecasts predict a decline in more traditional connections like SMSs (43 per cent decrease) and voice calls (3 per cent decrease).

“Even though our customers are using more data and less calling and messaging, it’s still vitally important that the network is up to the task of passing hundreds of thousands of calls and messages throughout the tournament,” Mr McClelland said.

“For this year’s Open, we have increased the capacity of our 3G network at Melbourne Park by up to 30 per cent. From the network performance statistics during the first few days of the Open, we’re pleased to see that 3G voice and SMS performance have been good.”

Sam Stosur and young fan, Claudia Bowen snap a selfie at the Australian Open 2014

Media contact

Melanie Vine

Optus Corporate Affairs

0422 812 724

media@optus.com.au

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