The #2 telco has just launched its new 3G enhancer, which it hopes will make Telstra’s customers pull the plug.
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Launched just two weeks ago, the nifty device will deliver up to 5 bars of signal and is compatible with all Optus 3G phones and mobile broadband devices.
It’s “your own private and dedicated 3G coverage signal” and will boost indoor wireless coverage, up to 30 metre range and will deliver better calls, data and broadband services, SingTel owned Optus claim.
3G Home Zone “is the newest and simplest way to boost your wireless coverage” and plugs directly into fixed line broadband.
It can also connect up to four users simultaneously and 12 devices can be added.
And Optus are hoping the new mobile technology will eat into its biggest rival Telstra’s fixed line user numbers, which showed revenue declines in its landline of 8.4% last financial year and 9% prior to that.
The home zone runs on femtocell technology, which is already used in the US, acts as a wireless information gateway and uses the existing internet connection to improve mobile coverage.
However, its only available in limited stores in Sydney, Wollongong Gold
Coast and Brisbane, and is being run on a pilot basis, for now.
“We believe femtocells are an important way of enhancing the customer experience of the Optus Open Network by acting as a wireless gateway into the home or office,” consumer marketing director Gavin Williams said.
It offers “an opportunity to have personalised and secure coverage within a home,” Mr Williams said.
3G Home Zone can be purchased outright for $240 or $60 -$180 depending
on mobile rate plans, and a monthly payment of $5-$15 although the lower
the plan value the pricier it is.
