OPTUS TO CEASE 2G SERVICES FROM APRIL 2017

Optus will shut down its 2G GSM network from 1 April 2017 as consumers increasingly use more data and opt for the latest 4G smartphones. This opens up options to re-allocate some of this spectrum to improve customer experience and mobile services. The Optus 2G GSM network was launched in 1993, providing basic voice and text messaging services. 2G GSM also introduced basic data services such as text-based sports results and stock prices, which have evolved on the newer and faster 3G and 4G networks to include live streaming video and mobile web browsing. Dennis Wong, Acting Managing Director, Optus Networks said: “Greater smartphone usage and advances in 4G technology are driving customer preferences for more mobile data and faster speeds and there has been a steady decline in 2G traffic and customers in the last few years. “2G now constitutes a fraction of our total mobile network traffic and is declining significantly year on year. Mobile service providers globally, including in Australia and our parent company Singtel in Singapore, are closing down 2G networks to support newer technologies.” When Optus closes the 2G GSM network, beginning in April 2017, to continue to enjoy the Optus mobile network, 2G customers should upgrade to newer 3G or 4G devices and plans. Virgin Mobile and Optus Wholesale service providers using the 2G GSM network, including amaysim will also be affected. “Our priority is to prepare our customers for this change and ensure they have sufficient time to upgrade to newer devices. Optus will provide affected customers with more details about options available to them closer to the closure of our 2G network beginning in April 2017. For some customers this might be a simple SIM upgrade,” Mr Wong said. Customers can easily check if their device uses the 2G network by looking for a 2G, GPRS, EDGE or E icon at the top of their mobile screen. For more information, customers can visit: Optus 2G Update or for Optus Business Technical Support phone 13 43 15 (Opt 2) or email ctsd@optus.com.au   Media contacts Steve Batten & Matt Sun Optus Corporate Affairs Ph: (02) 8082 7850