Telstra has announced that it has switched on 5G technology in selected areas of the Gold Coast, marking an important step in Australia and positioning the company as the largest and fastest network to be 5G ready.
Some of the 5G technologies that were enabled today are Wi-Fi hot spots that connect to the internet via 5G, Telstra’s Connected Car and pre-commercial device testing.
Andrew Penn, Telstra CEO, has indicated that this is just the start, commenting “Today’s switch on demonstrates Telstra’s commitment to mobile leadership in Australia and will support the ongoing testing of next generation mobile technologies in Australian conditions to support the early commercial deployment of 5G mobile services,”
“Telstra has already achieved a number of significant milestones in preparation for 5G.
“Today we have switched on 5G-capable sites on the Gold Coast, which enable us to test 5G pre-commercial devices in real world conditions and use unique innovations like our Connected Car to test our 5G footprint.
“It also means we can connect compatible commercial 5G devices for customers in 5G areas as they become available.
“We know mobility is key for our customers, and that’s why we are focused on delivering a 5G mobile service first and foremost.
Telstra’s 5G roll out is underpinned by a $5 billion mobile network investment over the next 3 years. This investment is a core part of the telco’s T22 strategy to simplify its product range and improve customer experience.
Andrew Penn emphasised the importance of 5G to T22, saying “Our T22 strategy will be underpinned by our aim to have the largest, fastest, safest, smartest and most reliable next generation network, and these ongoing investments will ensure we continue to deliver market leading innovation in networks,”
“Telstra has a history of innovating and adopting the next generation of wireless technology ahead of the curve.
“With our mobile network now 5G ready in selected areas, we will continue deploying the technology and developing innovative services and use cases for our customers.”