Australia’s New 4G Network – Thank You Telstra!

Praise the lord, Telstra is finally doing something about Australia’s mobile internet speed. The telco has just announced that along with the new HTCVelocity 4G, Telstra customers are now able to use the new 4G network.The network, which has been in operation since last September is now open to all Telstra subscribers with 4G phones. While the HTC Velocity is the only 4G phone available from Telstra at this point, this is still a huge step forward for us as consumers.We’re still a long way from the perfect 4G network. Converge is far from perfect. Telstra suggests you check the online coverage map to make sure you can enjoy 4G in your area – more of a must than a suggestion if you ask me!

The differences Between 3G and 4G networks:
When looking at the difference between 3G and 4G … it’s huge!  The 3G network is only capable of download speeds of 1-10Mbps, while the 4G ranges from 2-40Mbps. Awesome if you’re in a high service spot, however with the network still being so patchy you’ll be lucky to have good reception anywhere, at least for now.

What this means for the Consumer:
Besides the speed increase, the fact that the number one telco in Australia is making the shift to 4G will spark the competitors to upgrade their networks too. Leaving us, the consumer, with the most important advance in mobile service in several years.

The availability for 4G phones will also rapidly increase among all Australian providers.

Telstra did little to hide from speculation about new phones coming to stores during a press conference about their new service, before confirming that it was looking at a range of phones.

“We know there’s a huge appetite for 4G-powered smart phones in Australia. We’re working with some of the world’s leading manufacturers – including HTC – to bring some of these devices to customers in the first half of 2012. Telstra product and technology specialists are attending the show [CES] with a view of bringing the best upcoming products to Australia,” a spokeswoman said.

HTC Velocity Specs

• Operating system – Android 2.3 with an Upgrade to Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich later this year.
• Processor – Dual-core 1.5 GHz Scorpion
• Screen size – 4.5 inches, 540 x 960 pixels
• Camera – 8 MP, Autofocus, dual-LED flash
• Ram – 1 GB RAM
• Size – 128.8 x 67 x 11.3 mm
• Weight – 163.8 g