LAUNCESTON SAYS YES TO OPTUS 4G

Launceston says YES to Optus 4G 

Faster web browsing, downloading and better video streaming on the way

Optus is bringing 4G services to Launceston which will deliver superfast mobile internet speeds for customers with compatible 4G mobile phones and tablets, while also enhancing 3G customer experience. 4G services across the area are expected to be switched on over the next few months. Optus’ Vice President of Mobile Radio Engineering, Andrew Smith said, “It’s an exciting time as we’re bringing 4G to Optus customers in Launceston for the first time. This provides customers with a faster mobile internet experience and will bring competition and choice in 4G services across Australia.” The upgrades are part of a massive 4G expansion program that will bring the Optus 4G network to around 200 regional areas and holiday destinations as new 4G spectrum becomes available. Optus plans to cover 90% of the Australian population with 4G by April 2015. Using Optus 4G, customers can download apps, music and movies quicker and enjoy video and music streaming with fewer interruptions. For businesses, 4G delivers faster file downloads and a more consistent video-conferencing experience. Optus customers will also benefit from a better 3G mobile experience as customers with compatible 4G devices transition to the 4G data network, improving 3G network capacity. Local Optus store manager, Kylie Olendrowsky said, “4G is faster than 3G which means customers can do more with their device, from uploading images to social media faster, to streaming their favourite music tracks with less buffering.” To support 4G services in Launceston, Optus towers will be upgraded over the next few weeks, so they are 4G-ready when the new spectrum becomes available. Mr Smith continued, “As the mobile towers in Launceston are being upgraded, there will be temporary service interruptions while this essential work is being completed. “Optus aims to complete these works as quickly as possible in order to keep any service interruptions to a minimum. We know this may be frustrating, and we thank customers for their patience while the upgrades are being completed,” Mr Smith said. Optus will bring 4G services progressively to the area via the new 2600MHz spectrum and 700MHz spectrum, which become available from October 2014 and January 2015 respectively. The latest 700 MHz compatible devices include Samsung Galaxy S5, the new iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus, LG G3 and HTC One (M8). To enjoy 4G coverage wherever the Optus 4G network expands, customers should look out for devices with the “4G in more places” symbol online and in-store. Customers can find out more about Optus 4G by visiting www.optus.com.au/4G, or visiting their local Optus store at 83 St John St, Launceston to discuss the best mobile phones and tablets for their coverage needs. To check tower upgrades or what 4G coverage is planned in the area, customers can visit www.optus.com.au/coverage.   Media contact: Steve Batten, Optus Corporate Affairs (02) 8082 7850 media@optus.com.au