APC - Tagged Articles - Optus

Optus makes femtocell push with 3G Home Zone to 'unshackle' your landline

Fri, 29 Jul 2011 17:05:20 +1000

Sick of line rental and mobile dropouts? Optus's new 3G Home Zone puts a broadband-powered mini base station in your living room, in a bid to lure users away from Telstra.

Huawei unveils $99 Android Froyo smartphone bargain on Optus

Tue, 28 Jun 2011 16:17:16 +1000

For less than a hundred dollars, Huawei's offering Android 2.2 for the tightest of budgets (and presumably margins) with the bargain-priced IDEOS X1.

Optus hints at Android tablets coming: Dell Streak?

Thu, 12 Aug 2010 16:50:22 +1000

Telstra has been stealing the limelight with local Android launches, but Optus says it is catching up fast.

Optus releases 20GB mobile broadband plan

Wed, 04 Aug 2010 15:50:43 +1000

Optus has released new mobile broadband plans ranging from $20 for 2GB to $100 for 20GB -- but as always, there is a confusing catch.

VIDEO: Optus iPhone queue, Sydney

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 17:13:42 +1000

Jack, Callum and Mitch have been sitting in this queue since 2AM. YESTERDAY. MORNING. We asked them why.

Details: iPhone 4 launch parties around Sydney

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 12:04:14 +1000

Telcos in Sydney are going all out to outdo each other with lavish parties to sucker in the punters to buy an iPhone tonight.

The cost of unlocking your iPhone 4...

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 10:37:49 +1000

Want to travel overseas with your iPhone 4? Here's a list of the network lock policy, and the unlock cost, for each of the Aussie carriers.

Apple and Optus confirm free bumpers for Aussie iPhone 4 buyers

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 16:30:00 +1000

Apple and Optus will be handing out free iPhone 4 bumpers, but don't expect a rebate for cases bought from other carriers...

Vodafone and 3 unveil iPhone 4 plans

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 18:19:16 +1000

The twin networks start their iPhone 4 offerings at $29 with 550MB of data and $18 per month for the handset, with plans topping out at $99 for 3GB and unlimited talk and text.

Optus iPhone 4 plans: $49 to $89, with up to 3GB of data

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 09:11:19 +1000

Optus enters the iPhone 4 fray with four plans, including a 'free' (zero upfront) 16GB iPhone 4 with 2GB of data for just $59 per month.

UPDATED: iPhone 4 outright pricing: $859 for 16GB, $999 for 32GB

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 23:21:30 +1000

UPDATED with 32GB price | Apple Australia tags the 16GB iPhone 4 at $859 outright, with the new entry-level 8GB iPhone 3GS landing at $719.

Optus first to announce midnight launch of iPhone 4

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 11:26:48 +1000

Optus has hinted at an "unlimited" future for the iPhone 4, which it will launch at midnight this Thursday.

REVIEW: Samsung Galaxy S -- Android 2.1 on Optus

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 18:12:47 +1000

There's a vast array of Android handsets out there ranging from rubbish to serious iPhone 4 competitors. This curvaceous Samsung is more towards the iPhone end.

iPhone 4’s Aussie launch set for July 30

Sat, 17 Jul 2010 16:03:40 +1000

The iPhone 4 gets an Australian release date on July 30th, with free bumper cases to address criticism of the phone’s signal dropout issues.

VIDEO - Optus: we're fixing our 3G network

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 15:03:18 +1000

An APC reader asked a probing question to Optus' engineering director today: when will you fix the 3G network? Here's a video of the answer.

Optus demos LTE network at 43Mbit/s

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 14:58:50 +1000

Optus has shown a live demo of high def video streaming over its trial 4G (LTE) mobile network in North Sydney.

REVIEW: Samsung N220 netbook on Optus 3G

Thu, 08 Jul 2010 06:00:00 +1000

Samsung's N220 is a new netbook being launched into Australia through Optus, with 3G broadband built-in. We tested its battery life and also played with Jolicloud Linux on it.

Optus launches Motorola Droid/Milestone

Thu, 01 Jul 2010 15:21:41 +1000

On the day Vodafone starts selling Google’s Nexus One, Optus is giving its customers another high-end Android handset option in Motorola’s Droid/Milestone handset.

VHA cuts prices, boosts talk and data on new smartphone plans

Wed, 30 Jun 2010 20:01:59 +1000

It’s game on for smartphone carriers: Vodafone and 3 boost the value their smartphone cap plans, plus Telstra drops the price of the HTC Desire.

While we wait for the Droid, Motorola launches Droid X

Thu, 24 Jun 2010 21:14:02 +1000

The Motorola Milestone, aka Droid, gets a bigger and more bad-ass brother with a 4.3 inch screen and inbuilt 3G-to-WiFi ‘hotspot mode’.

Galaxy S Pro probably not for Australia, says Samsung

Thu, 24 Jun 2010 00:04:56 +1000

Samsung exec downplays chances of an Aussie release for QWERTY slider version of the just-launched Galaxy S Android smartphone...

Mobicity fast-tracks Dell Streak for Aussie Android fans

Wed, 23 Jun 2010 17:47:45 +1000

Can’t wait for Dell to decide if it will release the Android-powered Streak slate here? Aussie online store Mobicity is now taking orders for UK-sourced Streaks at $899...

Optus to debut Android-powered Samsung Galaxy S from July 1st, Telstra to follow

Wed, 23 Jun 2010 17:20:00 +1000

Optus will launch Samsung’s second-gen Android Galaxy S smartphone on Thursday July 1st, ‘free’ at $59/month and selling outright for $849; a Telstra Next G model is set to follow.

Internode releases microSIM plans for iPad 3G

Tue, 22 Jun 2010 22:12:28 +1000

The SA-based ISP becomes Australia’s first 3G reseller to offer iPad 3G microSIM plans, starting at $15 per month for 500MB on the Optus network.

Dell does ‘tablet tease’ with Android-powered Streak 3G slate

Mon, 21 Jun 2010 15:00:00 +1000

Dell preps the ground for possible Aussie release of its Streak 3G tablet, showing the Android slate to local telcos and raising the possibility of a carrier deal.

Reform still needed despite Telstra deal, says Optus

Sun, 20 Jun 2010 21:59:09 +1000

Optus says the deal between Telstra and the NBN is good, but not that good.

Optus to launch Motorola Droid in AU?

Sat, 12 Jun 2010 23:14:16 +1000

Word on the grapevine is that Motorola's hot Android phone, Droid, will be launched in Australia by Optus.

Optus threatens to sue Telstra over Next G claims

Sat, 12 Jun 2010 19:18:37 +1000

Optus is threatening to sue Telstra for comparing its Next G coverage to Optus' 2100MHz coverage only, ignoring the telco's expanded 900MHz network coverage.

Is Optus 3G almost as good as Telstra?

Thu, 10 Jun 2010 18:00:22 +1000

A report came out today claiming Optus' 3G network is almost as good as Telstra Next G, but do the figures really stack up?

ACCC takes Optus to court over misleading advertising

Tue, 08 Jun 2010 10:26:54 +1000

Australia's competition regulator has taken Optus to court for playing fast and loose with the word "unlimited" in plans which do have usage limits -- after it was warned not to.

Asus and Optus unwrap Android-powered Garmin GPS smartphone

Tue, 01 Jun 2010 13:17:47 +1000

Android moves in a new direction with the first GPS-centric smartphone, the Garmin-Asus G10, which Optus is set to launch on June 7th.

NetComm launches $299 ‘personal hotspot’ for Wi-Fi iPad models

Mon, 31 May 2010 14:11:01 +1000

The first Next G-compatible ‘pocket hotspot’ to hit the Aussie market, NetComm’s $299 MyZone turns Next G and 3G signals into short-range 802.11g wireless.

iPad 3G a sell-out success..?

Mon, 31 May 2010 13:43:40 +1000

A slim $170 markup over Wi-Fi models plus low-cost prepaid 3G plans make the 3G iPad a sell-out success. Also: iPad customers cancelling Apple preorders to buy over the counter.

Optus launches $50 ‘unlimited’ iPad plan

Fri, 28 May 2010 13:55:03 +1000

Optus apes Vodafone with the sudden introduction of a $50 unlimited prepaid plan for the iPad 3G.

iPad 3G speed shootout: Telstra vs Optus vs Vodafone vs 3

Fri, 28 May 2010 09:24:00 +1000

We put Telstra, Optus, Vodafone and 3 to the test in Australia’s first comparison of iPad 3G providers – and if you expect Next G to be fastest, the results will surprise you!

ANALYSIS: best iPad 3G plans

Thu, 27 May 2010 21:54:00 +1000

iPad launch day is upon us, and if you're shelling out for the 3G model you're going to need a prepaid data card to go along with it. Here's a rundown of your options.

3G options for the Wi-Fi iPad

Thu, 27 May 2010 16:58:51 +1000

If you’re buying one of the cheaper iPad Wi-Fi models there are still a few ways to enjoy Internet access anywhere without stumping up the extra money for a 3G version.

Vodafone announces unlimited iPad data plan

Wed, 26 May 2010 17:55:16 +1000

Vodafone and Three unleash aggressive prepaid iPad 3G plans, starting at $10 for 250MB and topped by an ‘unlimited’ plan for just $50 per month, with up to 14GB of data rollover.

SCOOP: Telstra to sell iPad microSIM kits from today, Optus from Wednesday

Mon, 24 May 2010 17:49:26 +1000

Telstra and Optus confirm their respective iPad microSIM prepaid broadband starter kits will go on sale days ahead of the iPad’s launch this Friday.

Optus spruiks ‘business class’ iPad 3G plans with up to $300 iPad rebate

Wed, 19 May 2010 09:15:00 +1000

Optus is making a play for business users of the iPad 3G with microSIM ‘BYO mobile broadband plans’ – and adding a ‘cash back rebates’ of $100 to $300 on Apple’s slate.

Samsung N220 3G netbook bundles with Optus from $50/month

Wed, 19 May 2010 07:00:00 +1000

Samsung’s Atom ‘Pinetrail’-based netbook packs 12 hour battery life with Optus dual-band 2100MHz and 900MHz 3G.

Optus to allow iPad 3G data rollover “up to 15GB, up to six months”

Wed, 19 May 2010 07:00:00 +1000

Optus confirms that data rollover will be available across all of its nine ‘microSIM’ prepaid iPad 3G plans, with as much as 15GB able to be carried over for six months at a time.

Optus boosts data caps in new Timeless Max mobile plans

Thu, 13 May 2010 08:17:54 +1000

With upwards of 1.5GB of data plus ‘unlimited’ talk and text starting from $99, Optus seeks to match Vodafone’s Unlimited Cap plans.

Is Google's Nexus One coming to Australia?

Wed, 12 May 2010 16:51:55 +1000

Optus and Vodafone are staying tight lipped on reports that they're planning a local launch of Google's superphone in time to give them bargaining power over the iPhone 4G.

Telcos bait the hook with iPad 3G plans

Wed, 12 May 2010 14:58:33 +1000

Apple’s decision to sell the iPad as an unlocked device for prepaid 3G sees carriers eagerly competing for customers who can easily sample and switch networks.

Optus reveals pre-paid iPad 3G plans

Tue, 11 May 2010 12:07:49 +1000

Optus 'microSIM' plans for the iPad 3G kick off at $15 for 500MB, stretch to $130 for 14GB, with expiry periods ranging from 15 days to six months.

New Next G cap plans: double allowances, free data

Mon, 10 May 2010 14:13:51 +1000

Has hell just frozen over? Telstra has radically improved its Next G cap plans, making it far more competitive in price with other networks.

Has Apple screwed the Aussie telcos with the iPad?

Mon, 10 May 2010 10:37:12 +1000

It's hard to believe that Australia's mobile telcos would not be falling over themselves in naked lust to sell the iPad when it launches in Australia on 28 May. So what's going on?

SCOOP: Optus month-by-month iPad 3G plans

Sun, 09 May 2010 13:43:12 +1000

Optus will offer month-by-month 3G plans for the Apple iPad starting at $20 for 2GB, along with prepaid plans.

iPad to launch in Australia on May 28, prices from $629 to $1,049

Fri, 07 May 2010 23:00:00 +1000

The iPad finally arrives in Australia on Friday May 28 with pre-orders from this coming Monday; Wi-Fi models will start at $629 and 3G at $799.

Dual-format SIM cards start to appear

Wed, 05 May 2010 00:36:57 +1000

There may be no need to be tied into the iPad 3G’s microSIM format and the telcos who support it, if smart carriers start adopting the new dual-SIM card format.

Carriers lined up to launch Sony Ericsson Android-powered Xperia X10

Thu, 29 Apr 2010 20:59:51 +1000

VHA’s 3 network has already landed the Xperia X10, Telstra launches next Tuesday and both Optus and Vodafone are expected to follow within the next fortnight.

Oh dear, Optus does it again: "unlimited" doesn't mean unlimited

Wed, 28 Apr 2010 19:11:51 +1000

A dictionary was delivered to us by courier today unexpectedly, with one word's definition mysteriously highlighted.

Optus confirms 3G plans for iPad’s Aussie launch

Thu, 15 Apr 2010 16:03:23 +1000

As expected, Optus joins Telstra, Vodafone and 3 as all Aussie 3G carriers offer a group hug to Apple’s delayed iPad.

Sony Ericsson Android-powered Xperia X10 to launch this month on all networks

Thu, 08 Apr 2010 14:51:30 +1000

The first Android smartphone from Sony Ericsson hits Australia later this month on Optus, Telstra, Vodafone and Three, on contract and outright sale.

Optus unlocks access to paid Android apps

Fri, 26 Mar 2010 14:52:43 +1000

Ahead of next week’s expected launch of new Android handsets, Optus has finally enabled access to paid apps on the Android Marketplace.

Samsung looks to 3G for its 2010 netbook push

Mon, 15 Mar 2010 13:59:32 +1000

The Korean colossus is set to sharpen its focus on 3G-enabled netbooks and will shortly add Vodafone to its set of telco partners for mobile broadband.

Oh dear: Optus didn’t learn from Telstra’s mistake

Fri, 12 Mar 2010 12:28:56 +1000

If there’s one thing that APC finds amusing, it’s when history repeats itself. As it so often does in Australia’s fickle telecommunications industry.

3G iPad arrives in Australia in April

Thu, 25 Feb 2010 14:06:43 +1000

Steve Jobs tipped mid-year for international release of the 3G iPad, but Apple Australia has it lined up for local launch in the next eight weeks.

Optus boss keen on "terrific" Apple iPad

Wed, 10 Feb 2010 08:23:55 +1000

Looks like there'll be no shortage of iPad-compatible Micro-SIMs at Optus, then...

Optus cable to hit 100Mbit/s by mid-2010

Tue, 09 Feb 2010 10:50:18 +1000

The nation’s number two telco Optus today said it was on schedule to upgrade the speed of its HFC cable network in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane to 100Mbps by mid-2010.

Optus buys more radio spectrum for mobile broadband

Fri, 05 Feb 2010 13:48:37 +1000

Optus has announced it has bought up all the remaining 2100MHz mobile spectrum to give its 3G/HSPA mobile services in metro areas a speed boost.

iPad broadband plans will sting Australians

Mon, 01 Feb 2010 10:30:00 +1000

Apple's new iPad comes with a revolutionary new type of 3G plan -- in the US. But what can we expect from Australian telcos?

Card tricks: why Apple put a microSIM into the iPad

Thu, 28 Jan 2010 14:50:07 +1000

The 3G iPad will come unlocked and ready to use with any prepaid mobile broadband service – provided the carrier uses the new microSIM card format.

HTC exec: “No plans for Telstra Next G Hero”

Mon, 30 Nov 2009 09:00:00 +1000

HTC confirms it has no plans to release a Next G version of its Hero smartphone in Australia, despite a compatible 850MHz 3G model being available in North America.

Optus deliberately blocking Android paid apps

Fri, 27 Nov 2009 12:13:25 +1000

EXCLUSIVE | Optus is blocking owners of Android mobile phones from buying paid apps from the Android store, while locking users into long service contracts.

Telstra and Vodafone roll out BlackBerry Bold 9700

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 19:07:27 +1000

Telstra is first past the post, with its Next G Bold 9700 on sale from tomorrow, while Vodafone circles December 2nd and unveils new ‘unlimited’ $99 plans.

BlackBerry Bold 9700 hits the streets

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 08:00:00 +1000

Optus is the first carrier to list the BlackBerry Bold 97000, which makes its debut on a $79/month plan – oddly, the same price as the Bold 9000...

Telstra CEO: iPhone tethering for Next G (finally) coming soon!

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 13:16:54 +1000

Better late than never, Telstra boss David Thodey says the carrier is working with Apple to enable Next G tethering on the iPhone.

As Telstra sits on Next G, Optus starts 4G trials

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 09:45:24 +1000

Optus will trial Long Term Evolution (LTE) mobile technology from next year. Let's hope it's better than their current 3G network.

HTC’s challenge: what price a Hero?

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 11:22:46 +1000

Will HTC’s decision to sidestep the subsidised handset plans of mobile phone carriers and sell the Hero and Tattoo outright help or hinder its new Android smartphones?

HTC sets its Hero free!

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 14:47:32 +1000

In a turnabout move HTC side sidesteps all four Australian mobile carriers to launch its Android-powered Hero and Tattoo smartphones unlocked and for outright sale.

Psst: want a Dell Mini 9 netbook with inbuilt unlocked 3G modem for $549?

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 11:00:00 +1000

It’s not the newest netbook on the market but at $549 with an inbuilt and unlocked 3G modem the pint-sized Mini 9 is a pretty sweet deal...

Turn your name into your phone number

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 07:00:00 +1000

A new Aussie Web site allows you to find what mobile number corresponds to your name – and if you’re so inclined, auction off your number to the highest bidder.

Best deals on the BlackBerry Bold 9700

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 15:14:04 +1000

BlackBerry fans eager to upgrade to the new Bold 9700 are scooping them up from overseas stores and back-channel importers – and at less than $700, who can blame them?

HTC’s Hero and Tattoo Android-phones to live on, and be locked to, Optus network

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 12:52:12 +1000

Optus or one of its virtual mobile network operators will be the sole Australian carrier for HTC’s new Android-powered Hero and Tattoo smartphones.

HTC sets Aussie launch of Hero and Tattoo Android-phones

Mon, 09 Nov 2009 16:16:54 +1000

The aptly-named Hero and the more mainstream Tattoo smartphones will make their Australian debut next week on Optus' dual-band 3G network.

BlackBerry Bold 9700 set for late November debut

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 15:50:00 +1000

Telstra, Optus and the Vodafone-3 alliance now known as VHA are all lined up to carry the new Bold 9700, a smartphone described as “the best BlackBerry ever”.

BlackBerry Bold 9700 debuts next week, Vodafone confirmed as launch partner

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 14:57:12 +1000

The slimmed-down yet souped-up smartphone makes its Australia debut next week, with Vodafone among the launch carriers – but public release isn’t expected until late next month.

RIM readies broad release of BlackBerry OS 5.0

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 12:00:00 +1000

The fresher, faster and funkier BlackBerry operating system 5.0 is just around the corner, with new builds leaking at a rate of knots – but it's not for every BlackBerry handset.

Optus pulls a swifty with new mobile broadband plans

Sat, 24 Oct 2009 17:00:00 +1000

Lower prices, more data and cheaper modems – Optus’ revised wireless broadband plans are all good, until your monthly data allowance is halved after 12 months...

RIM unveils BlackBerry Bold 9700

Thu, 22 Oct 2009 18:06:19 +1000

Take the best BlackBerry to date, trim the size but spec up the features, and you’ve got the new BlackBerry Bold 9700.

New budget-minded BlackBerry Curve 8520 kicks off on Vodafone

Tue, 06 Oct 2009 15:54:12 +1000

RIM’s BlackBerry for first-time users pares back the features to hit a more affordable pricing level, with availability this week on Vodafone’s $59/month plan.

Aussie home broadband connections tip past the 50% mark

Tue, 06 Oct 2009 00:21:46 +1000

Despite one in every two Australian homes having a fixed broadband connection, we barely make it into the Top 20 list of countries with the highest penetration of home broadband.

Sydney-wide iPhone test: which carrier has best speed and coverage?

Fri, 25 Sep 2009 14:09:41 +1000

Four networks, 150 locations and one sprawling city - Sydney’s most thorough testing of iPhone carriers reveals the winners and sinners for speed and coverage.

First Look: HP’s Mini 5101 ‘business class’ netbook

Fri, 31 Jul 2009 16:11:15 +1000

HP amps up the netbook recipe with a larger keyboard, bigger (and faster) hard drive and optional SSD, high-res HD display and inbuilt 3G modem.

Samsung preps Android smartphone for Aussie launch

Fri, 31 Jul 2009 00:17:42 +1000

Next month sees Samsung roll out its full line of touchscreen ‘Icon’ mobiles, among them the Android-powered Galaxy Icon.

Vodafone cuts prepaid mobile broadband, adds 2GB bonus

Mon, 27 Jul 2009 14:58:59 +1000

Vodafone drops the price of its Prepaid Mobile Broadband Starter Pack to $119 and extends the promo date for its bonus 2GB of data to get you started.

Sony Ericsson’s ‘Rachel’ set to join Android friends

Wed, 22 Jul 2009 18:29:31 +1000

It’s codenamed Rachel but we’ll see this Android-powered smartphone debut as the Xperia X3 and sporting a custom Sony Ericsson UI.

Dell slashes Adamo notebook by $1,500

Sat, 18 Jul 2009 16:20:49 +1000

It’s a case of ‘better late than never’ as the ultra-portable, ultra-chic and ultra-expensive Dell Adamo plummets to the realm of affordability after a whopping $1,500 price cut!

3 slashes its own iPhone pricing but drops 500MB bonus for iPhone 3GS

Thu, 16 Jul 2009 09:48:29 +1000

Mere days after announcing its iPhone pricing, 3 has halved the monthly handset cost across most plans, but the 500MB bonus on the $49 cap has been dropped.

Laptop Connect offers short-term mobile broadband hookup

Tue, 14 Jul 2009 12:50:50 +1000

Innovative ‘short term hire’ program offers a Next G modem from $5 to $11 per day, including around 140MB of daily data.

3’s new iPhone 3GS plans to start at $57/month, free on $79/month with 1GB

Mon, 13 Jul 2009 17:14:15 +1000

The 3G-only carrier gears up for this Friday’s release of the iPhone 3G and iPhone 3GS with both prepaid and contract plans, but with an additional $200 to unlock your iPhone.

FIRST IMPRESSIONS: iPhone 3.0 software update & tethering

Thu, 18 Jun 2009 14:34:02 +1000

Third time's a charm as Apple releases the long-awaited iPhone 3.0 software update, yet some telcos want to charge extra for tethering.

Telcos line up to launch iPhone 3G S on June 26

Wed, 10 Jun 2009 09:06:28 +1000

Vodafone and Optus are gearing up for Apple’s souped-up iPhone – but what will the deal be with upgrading to the new model?

iPhone 3.0 to support data tethering through Telstra, Optus and Vodafone

Tue, 09 Jun 2009 08:57:13 +1000

All three of Australia’s iPhone carriers will support iPhone-to-laptop data tethering through Apple’s new iPhone 3.0 OS.

Vodafone delivers ‘visual voicemail’ to Aussie iPhone owners

Wed, 27 May 2009 19:02:27 +1000

It’s about time a local carrier gave us the coolness that US iPhone customers have enjoyed for the past two years.

Sony Ericsson: “We’ll wait for Android 2.0”

Tue, 26 May 2009 15:00:00 +1000

Sony Ericsson is staying away from Google’s smartphone OS until it’s better at multimedia, which it says means waiting until Android 2.0 is released.

Optus admits slow broadband problem

Mon, 25 May 2009 22:30:23 +1000

Optus has admitted that it has been "shaping" internet connections to a slower speed than advertised.

HTC ‘Magic’ Android G2 smartphone set for Aussie launch next week, exclusive to Vodafone

Mon, 18 May 2009 23:00:40 +1000

HTC will unveil its G2 ‘Magic’ Android smartphone to the local media next week, with the smartphone offered exclusively through Vodafone.

Optus and Vodafone discount their iPhone contracts as Apple preps new model

Fri, 08 May 2009 18:15:16 +1000

UPDATED: Optus and Vodafone both drop their cheapest 'free iPhone' plans to $49 per month to clear stocks ahead of a possible third-gen iPhone in July.

WARNING: diabolical fine print in Optus' new "monster caps"

Wed, 06 May 2009 13:17:54 +1000

$680 worth of calls for $49 looks like a great deal, but Optus is again using dodgy fine print to cheat customers.

Prepaid wireless mobile broadband: Optus, Telstra, Three and Vodafone compared

Mon, 04 May 2009 21:57:02 +1000

Vodafone has joined its rivals in offering 3G wireless broadband to prepaid customers. So which telco offers the best value for your ‘pay as you go’ mobile broadband buck?

Samsung UltraTouch is ultra-sneaky

Mon, 04 May 2009 16:44:06 +1000

What other phone lets you fake an incoming call, complete with pre-recorded dialogue, so you can escape from a boring meeting or social situation?

Samsung releases Android smartphone

Tue, 28 Apr 2009 00:34:49 +1000

The consumer electronics powerhouse is adding its muscle to the Android platform with the touchscreen i7500.

Optus releases two-headed ‘Total Cap' plan for voice, broadband and 3G wireless

Mon, 27 Apr 2009 21:43:38 +1000

The ‘Total Business Cap’ is actually a combo of two separate capped plans – one for voice, the other for data – but at least they come on a single bill.

Internode adds 3G wireless data to its broadband menu

Mon, 27 Apr 2009 12:01:36 +1000

The popular ISP’s new NodeMobile Data plans repackage Optus 3G from $15 per month for 250MB, with excess usage blocks starting at $10 for 250MB.

Mobile broadband busts loose from the city

Thu, 16 Apr 2009 21:33:45 +1000

Vodafone’s new 900MHz 3G network and Three’s roaming deal with Next G help mobile broadband stay connected beyond the ‘big smoke’.

Google polishes Android in 1.5 update

Thu, 16 Apr 2009 18:08:30 +1000

In Android’s most significant update yet, this month’s 1.5 upgrade gets a slicker and more streamlined interface plus the ability to delete or archive multiple Gmail messages.

“No BlackBerry Curve 8900 for you!”

Wed, 01 Apr 2009 18:45:27 +1000

Don’t go looking for the just-launched BlackBerry Curve 8900 at your nearest Vodafone store – the carrier is restricting sales to ‘big ticket’ corporate customers.

Apple to unveil third iPhone upgrade

Mon, 16 Mar 2009 13:30:00 +1000

Apple will introduce version 3.0 of its iPhone OS, and new development tools on Tuesday, fueling rumors that the launch of a new phone will come within months.

The bare facts on Optus’ naked DSL

Mon, 02 Mar 2009 15:34:45 +1000

Optus becomes the first major league telco to strip down for naked DSL, but punts on mobile rather than VoIP as its landline replacement.

HTC and Vodafone unveil second-gen Android G2 phone

Wed, 18 Feb 2009 08:30:00 +1000

New touchscreen HTC ‘Magic’ phone ditches the slide-out keyboard for a virtual QWERTY keypad – along with better browser, bigger battery and 900MHz HSDPA.

THE DEFINITIVE IN-DEPTH REVIEW: Optus HTC Dream with Google Android

Thu, 12 Feb 2009 22:16:04 +1000

When APC gets the latest smartphone we don't just have a cursory play with it. We give it a thorough roasting, a grilling, a pounding with our thumbs... heck, a few flecks of spittle may even land on the device. Here's our in-depth review of the Australian HTC Dream.

BREAKING: Internet filter to go live… without iiNet or Optus

Wed, 11 Feb 2009 17:45:37 +1000

Australia's second and third largest ISPs, Optus and iiNet, won't be included in the government's internet filter test upon its launch.

Optus: free mobiles for bushfire survivors

Mon, 09 Feb 2009 16:27:02 +1000

Optus says it is giving out free prepaid mobile handsets loaded with $1,000 in calling credits to stranded bushfire survivors who were Optus customers.

FULL PLAN DETAILS: Australia to get Google phone on Optus

Thu, 05 Feb 2009 12:35:06 +1000

Australia will get the world’s first Android phone outside the US when Optus launches HTC’s Dream on Monday February 16th.

Optus convicted of spamming, fined $110,000

Wed, 14 Jan 2009 18:26:31 +1000

The country's second largest telco has been fined $110,000 by the Australian Communications and Media Authority for sending out spam.

Optus threatens customers over VoIP calls

Mon, 29 Dec 2008 22:03:56 +1000

Optus customers got a nasty Christmas present from their telco: a warning that they would be billed international rates if they attempted to make VoIP calls on their mobiles.

Telcos slash mobile broadband prices for Christmas

Fri, 19 Dec 2008 12:00:00 +1000

As Christmas fast approaches some telcos have taken the opportunity to make substantial cuts to their on mobile broadband offerings. They've also rejigged iPhone pricing too.

Telstra rejects govt internet filtering trials

Mon, 08 Dec 2008 21:24:50 +1000

If the nation's biggest ISP doesn't have anything to do with them, how much reliance can be placed on tests of the controversial "clean feed" proposal?

Telstra Next G network hit by software glitch

Mon, 08 Dec 2008 20:21:01 +1000

Telstra execs may have been rubbing their hands in glee at Optus' 3G misfortunes, but now its own Next G network has been hit by a software glitch.

Banned iPhone ad shown in Australia

Wed, 03 Dec 2008 10:00:00 +1000

Did you buy the iPhone based on promises of "really fast' 3G, only to find it was a dog speed-wise? You've been sucked in by iPhone ads, banned overseas for false advertising.

Internode inks Telstra ADSL2+ wholesale deal

Wed, 26 Nov 2008 17:41:06 +1000

Internode has announced it will soon be reselling Telstra ADSL2+ services, giving it broader coverage than Telstra itself.

Internode launches Ultra Naked

Tue, 18 Nov 2008 15:38:46 +1000

Just when you thought ISPs couldn't strip off any more costs, Internode hands us a big fig leaf...

Virgin Broadband pulled from general retailers

Fri, 07 Nov 2008 21:10:45 +1000

Virgin Mobile has pulled its wireless broadband service — provided via the Optus 3G mobile network — from general retailers like Dick Smith.

Why I switched to Telstra

Mon, 03 Nov 2008 10:44:03 +1000

OPINION | I think Optus' 3G network is just screwed, to be honest.

NAMED AND SHAMED: the most complained-about ISPs

Wed, 22 Oct 2008 16:30:29 +1000

The results are in: the top 10 ISPs in Australia. But they won't exactly be popping champagne corks.

Telstra chops wireless broadband prices - again!

Mon, 20 Oct 2008 14:45:27 +1000

Telstra has scrapped excess usage fees and bumped up download allowances on a selection of its Next G mobile broadband plans.

Optus set to launch BlackBerry Pearl Flip

Mon, 13 Oct 2008 22:57:01 +1000

The hippest BlackBerry to date will make its Australian debut next week as RIM pushes more into the mainstream market.

Vodafone locks up BlackBerry Storm

Thu, 09 Oct 2008 14:00:00 +1000

EXCLUSIVE | Despite not supporting Vodafone's new 900MHz 3G network, the new touch-screen BlackBerry Storm will only be available from Vodafone.

DOUBLE THE PRICE: Optus hikes wireless charges

Tue, 07 Oct 2008 11:31:10 +1000

Optus has hiked the prices of its prepaid wireless broadband service -- up to double the price on some plans -- just weeks after launching the service.

Telstra's new prepaid wireless broadband - be careful with the top-ups

Wed, 24 Sep 2008 11:51:51 +1000

Telstra becomes the second Australian telco to offer prepaid wireless 3G broadband -- but like its rival Optus, offers a potentially nasty pricing twist in its plans.

Optus dumps wireless Fusion bundles due to 3G network congestion

Wed, 17 Sep 2008 14:25:40 +1000

As criticism of its 3G service mounts, Optus has quietly ditched the 3G wireless version of its Fusion broadband and telephony plans.

Congrats, Optus: you're the world's worst for 3G

Tue, 16 Sep 2008 09:01:36 +1000

A global survey has concluded that Optus offers the slowest network speeds of any carrier selling the iPhone worldwide and that Aussies get the slowest 3G speeds in general.

Optus expands 3G network: ‘yes’, no, maybe?

Wed, 10 Sep 2008 22:58:15 +1000

Optus's Next G-challenger network sounds exciting, but the telco looks set to force customers into new contracts if they want to be able to use it.

Optus slow to block stolen phones, say angry customers

Mon, 08 Sep 2008 15:59:12 +1000

Number two telco Optus appears to be dragging its feet on blocking stolen phones from its network, causing some users to question Optus's motives.

Telstra to sue Optus; wants to remain evil #1

Fri, 29 Aug 2008 13:00:00 +1000

BLUESCREEN | Telstra to sue Optus for providing crappy service, devious pricing with hidden catches and poor network quality. Telstra claiming exclusive rights.

iPrimus announces 12GB mobile broadband

Thu, 28 Aug 2008 09:37:26 +1000

OPINION | iPrimus has announced a mobile broadband package with enough data to displace ADSL broadband services. But will the service quality be adequate? Probably not.

iPhone users hit with huge bills for ... home WiFi

Wed, 27 Aug 2008 12:00:00 +1000

Think your iPhone usage at home on WiFi is free? Think again...

Telstra jacks up line rental prices -- yet again

Fri, 22 Aug 2008 12:03:08 +1000

Telstra has yet again jacked up line rental again, just after announcing a record-breaking company profit of $3.7 billion — up 13.5% from the previous year.

It's a miracle! BigPond slashes wireless prices

Fri, 22 Aug 2008 11:13:09 +1000

It was miraculous enough when Telstra's controversial PR chief Phil Burgess announced he was leaving; now Telstra has dropped pricing on wireless broadband significantly.

Optus releases cheap 6GB iPhone plans

Tue, 19 Aug 2008 15:00:00 +1000

Optus has started offering iPhone plans with a 6GB allowance -- but as always with Optus these days, there is a catch.

Is the Optus 3G network stretched to breaking point?

Mon, 18 Aug 2008 22:00:00 +1000

Continuous problems with Optus' 3G mobile network, from call dropouts to disastrous wireless broadband speeds have customers seeing red.

Sting in the tail for Optus prepaid wireless broadband plans

Mon, 18 Aug 2008 00:01:00 +1000

Optus' new prepaid wireless broadband plans look good on the surface but come with a nasty sting in the tail.

User anger: iPhone 3G problems emerging

Thu, 14 Aug 2008 12:14:42 +1000

The iPhone is not all it was cracked up to be, say some frustrated early adopters.

Best value Australian iPhone plans revealed!

Mon, 04 Aug 2008 14:50:00 +1000

UPDATED | Want to buy an iPhone 3G? We've gone through all the plans from all the telcos to find the best of the best.

Virgin Mobile to announce iPhone plans

Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:06:04 +1000

Virgin is poised to release the iPhone 3G this Friday. Read our story to see the rumoured price plans.

RIM's iPhone competitor launched: Blackberry Bold

Tue, 29 Jul 2008 12:00:00 +1000

It’s finally here – well, sort of. Despite today’s official launch, the 3G smartphone won’t land in our hands for at least another three weeks.

Best global roaming deals for iPhone travellers

Wed, 23 Jul 2008 10:00:00 +1000

Travelling with your iPhone overseas? Here's the best value for your data-roaming dollar!

Watchdog warns on telco tricks and iPhone fees

Tue, 22 Jul 2008 11:57:58 +1000

The ACCC is warning iPhone purchasers not to get burned by telco billing tricks.

What's included and excluded: Optus Timeless unlimited mobile plans

Mon, 21 Jul 2008 14:45:56 +1000

What's the catch with Optus' new unlimited mobile plans? We interviewed Optus consumer marketing chief Michael Smith to find out.

iPhone 2.0 hack: it took just nine days

Sun, 20 Jul 2008 15:27:00 +1000

Got a cheekily imported original iPhone that you want to upgrade to iPhone 2.0 firmware? Or an iPhone 3G you want to jailbreak? Well, now you can.

Optus introduces unlimited mobile plans, 2GB iPhone plan

Fri, 18 Jul 2008 14:35:13 +1000

EXCLUSIVE | Now you can really dump your home phone: Optus has revealed a range of new unlimited mobile plans.

PHOTOS: crazy iPhone queues

Fri, 11 Jul 2008 11:03:52 +1000

I admit I was sceptical people would really queue up at 6.00am to buy an iPhone. How wrong I was.

CONFIRMED: Vodafone AU releases full iPhone plan pricing

Thu, 10 Jul 2008 16:00:00 +1000

UPDATED | Vodafone has finally confirmed its iPhone plans, and the news isn't great -- Optus has vastly better pricing and value.

ANALYSIS: How much data do you need for iPhone 3G?

Wed, 09 Jul 2008 15:55:00 +1000

With the news that not all iPhone plans are created equal, the big unanswered question for newly minted iPhone 3G owners around the world is: how much data is enough?

Please hold for the iPhone

Tue, 08 Jul 2008 10:37:00 +1000

The new 3G iPhone may face a slower than expected take-up as Apple sets its sights on the mainstream markets outside the US.

iPhone 3G to be sold unlocked in Australia

Thu, 03 Jul 2008 18:30:33 +1000

For some people, it's a dream come true: the ability to buy an iPhone 3G in Australia totally unlocked and without a contract.

BREAKING: Optus announces detailed iPhone plan pricing

Thu, 03 Jul 2008 14:16:34 +1000

Optus today became the first telco to release comprehensive iPhone 3G pricing, including plan information.

Mobile telco 3 protests inability to obtain iPhone from Apple

Thu, 26 Jun 2008 18:17:42 +1000

3 isn't feeling the love from Apple: it is asking customers to petition to let 3 sell the iPhone.

Huawei readies sexy new mobile broadband modems

Wed, 25 Jun 2008 06:00:00 +1000

A thumbdrive modem with microSD slot and a home HSPA-to-WiFi gateway may soon be offered by Australian telcos.

Telstra hits Optus with iPhone legal threat

Thu, 12 Jun 2008 18:27:56 +1000

Telstra has threatened Optus with legal action over its claims that the iPhone will be able to use Optus' upcoming HSDPA network with 98% coverage.

Now you can take your home phone line with you: Optus

Thu, 15 May 2008 12:00:00 +1000

Optus is extracting maximum value out of its mobile network to offer home phone lines without the 'line'.

DEAD: Aust govt kills national WiMax plan

Wed, 02 Apr 2008 17:03:17 +1000

The Australian Government has pulled the plug on its $1billion national WiMax plan, citing inadequate coverage.

Optus, Vodafone, Acer: I've had it with dishonest tech marketing!

Tue, 18 Dec 2007 06:32:47 +1000

Why don't tech companies just say what they mean? As a journalist, I'm sick of receiving essentially dishonest announcements from big tech companies.