Telstra announces new mobiles network
9 July 1998
Telstra announced today its plans to establish a new mobiles network based on digital technology using 800 MHz spectrum, purchased at the recent Australian Communications Authority auctions.
Group Managing Director, Products & Marketing, Lindsay Yelland, said Telstra will introduce this network across Australia commencing in 1999. It will offer seamless operation via the use of dual mode handsets during the AMPS network phase out.
Telstra has been aware of the concerns of rural and remote customers and the new technology will combine the benefits of digital with coverage similar to analogue AMPS.
Telstra is evaluating Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) and other technologies to meet technical and commercial requirements including their suitability for rural areas.
Telstra plans to conduct trials of this technology in consultation with rural communities in early 1999, to ensure satisfactory coverage performance.
The new network will complement Telstra's GSM products and optimally position Telstra to maintain market leadership, catering for ongoing growth and introducing new and innovative services into the Australian mobiles market.
The new network will operate alongside Telstra's GSM network. Telstra remains fully committed to GSM and will continue to expand the network to keep pace with the growth in the Australian market.
Telstra plans to make arrangements with third party resellers, for wholesale access to the new network on commercial terms.
"Telstra is negotiating with major suppliers of the new technologies to meet its commercial and technical requirements and a final announcement will be made shortly," Mr Yelland said.
For further information:
Virginia Murphy
Products & Marketing
03 9632 6020
Karen Barrett
Regulatory & External Affairs
02 9206 0067
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