Today, Optus has made two significant announcements regarding their 5G network. Revealing their 5G roll-out schedule around Australia and their first Unlimited 5G Home Broadband plan. Available at just A$70 per month with capable speeds faster than the NBN.
5G is the next-generation wireless technology after 4G (which replaced 3G). It offers significantly faster speeds, is quicker to start loading, handles congestion much better, and more. In fact, it is much faster than the NBN, with some (including myself) calling 5G an NBN-killer. It is also a technology that will no doubt be supported by future Apple products such as the iPhone and iPad.
5G Roll-Out Schedule
Optus has confirmed there are two (2) 5G sites in Canberra, ACT in which are live. And in addition to them, one in Sydney (Glendenning, NSW). A further 47 sites are planned to be ready and online by March 2019.
This number is then set to grow rapidly, with Optus confirming they plan to deliver 1,200 5G sites by March 2020. In partnership with Nokia who are supplying the 5G RAN and Fastmile 5G CPEs. Optus will bring 5G to ACT, New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, South Australia, and Western Australia. Tasmania and Northern Territory have not yet been confirmed.
Unlimited 5G Plan
Part of today’s announcement is the first Home Broadband Plan by Optus which will run on the new 5G network. The Optus 5G Home Broadband plan includes unlimited data at just A$70. With the option to join on a 24-month contract, or no lock-in month-to-month plan.
In terms of speed, Optus is offering a ‘Satisfaction Guarantee’ of 50 Mbps. This is substantially more than the average speeds of the NBN the current Liberal Government are rolling out (in which they promise 25 Mbps).
“Whether its bingeing on your favourite series in 4K, taking on a crafty Fortnite opponent, streaming your favourite Party mix on Spotify or live streaming the latest Premier League match – Optus 5G Home Broadband is designed to deliver customers a great, multi-platform experience. And it is only just the start,” said Mr Lew.
However, the plan is not limited to 50 Mbps in speed, and will likely be significantly faster. This is because 5G by Optus has already been tested and reached speeds of well over 1Gbps (1000 Mbps).
Signing Up
At the time of writing, Optus is taking expressions of interest. Allowing anyone to register their interest in the plan. Simply head over to https://www.optus.com.au/shop/broadband/5g, and enter your address to check for eligibility.
Optus has said the plan will be offered to more suburbs as their 5G roll-out continues.
