Canberra receives improved Optus 4G services

Optus customers will have access to faster download speeds, improved data coverage and better voice quality after the company launched expanded 4G services.

Services will be improved at more than 10 sites across the ACT throughout October. The 1800 MHz spectrum is being delivered in Canberra early, after Optus received approval from the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) for early-access commercial licences.

Customers in Torrens, Latham, Richardson and along Majura Road will be the first to experience coverage and capacity enhancements.

“Between now and January 2017, we will boost services at more than 30 sites across the ACT,” said Dennis Wong, acting managing director of Networks.

“The advantage of 1800 MHz spectrum is that virtually all 4G devices support it, meaning more Optus customers with a variety of devices will enjoy the improved experience.”

Optus has been building its entertainment offerings for customers through video streaming services such as Netflix, plus exclusive, on-demand content through partnerships with Cricket Australia and the Premier League.

Optus invested $196 million in regional licences in the 1800 MHz spectrum band earlier this year, which will enable 4G services to be expanded in regional areas across every state and territory.

The Optus mobile network currently reaches 98.5% of the Australian population, with 4G services now available for more than 95% of Australians.

From May 2017, as the 1800 MHz spectrum becomes nationally available for commercial use, Optus will expand its 4G network to even more holiday destinations and regional locations.

Customers can now select handsets that provide Optus’s best voice and data reception in regional Australia by looking out for the ‘Top Pick for our Regional Coverage’ badge. The badge indicates that phones have passed Optus’s network field testing in regional locations for voice and data requirements and can offer a better coverage experience.

Optus previously launched 4G services using 1800 MHz spectrum in selected locations in Bendigo in Victoria, Byron Bay, Coffs Harbour, Port Macquarie, Nowra and Vincentia in NSW and Toowoomba in Queensland.

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