Telstra, which already lays claim to the world’s fastest HSPA+ GSM Network – capable of up to 42Mbps down – has until today only sold a wireless modem capable of up to 21Mbps down.
With the launch of the “Telstra Ultimate USB” modem, Aussies can now take advantage of this new blistering speed across Australia’s capital city, CBDs and associated airports, selected metropolitan hubs and more than 100 regional centers.
Telstra business group managing director Deena Shiff said the high-speed zones “cover approximately 50% of the Australian population and match the areas of highest customer demand.”
Not everyone will be able to take advantage of it, however, with Ms Shiff adding “In other metropolitan and regional areas, the Telstra Ultimate USB Modem offers typical download speeds ranging from 550kbps up to 8Mbps, which is still significantly faster than Telstra’s mobile broadband competitors.”
The Telstra Ultimate USB is the world’s first commercial USB modem to use a new generation of mobile broadband technology called dual channel HSPA+.
The modem and enabling network technology was developed in collaboration with leading technology companies Ericsson, Qualcomm and Sierra Wireless.
Currently the modem is only available to enterprise customers with an initial inventory of 2000 devices. A more widespread launch to the rest of the unwashed masses is due later this year.
The Telstra Ultimate USB can also be purchased in conjunction with a range of mobile broadband plans including for the princely sum of $0 upfront with a $69 plan over 24 months (minimum total cost $1,656) or, from 5 October, outright for $299.
It is available from 25 August through Telstra Business and Telstra Enterprise & Government account managers.
