Optus LTE rollout begins

Australia’s second largest mobile network operator by subscribers, Optus launched a trial of its 4G LTE services in the Hunter region, TeleGeography CommsUpdate reported.
According to Optus, select customers in the region will be able to access the wireless broadband services, with more than a thousand business and residential subscribers expected to receive 4G service and devices beginning this week.

Those selected to take part in the trial will gain free access to the LTE-based services. In return, they are expected to provide feedback to Optus regarding network performance and device capability.

Optus said it will use the customer feedback to help “optimize its 4G national rollout over the coming months.”

The operator also reiterated its commercial 4G launch plans, which include switching LTE network on in Sydney, Melbourne and Perth during the middle of the year. Expansion into Brisbane and Adelaide are scheduled during the first half of 2013.