Telstra launched its 5G mobile network in Perth today, while also confirming multinational telco Ericsson as its partner in a national rollout of the technology.
Telstra launched its 5G mobile network in Perth today, while also confirming multinational telco Ericsson as its partner in a national rollout of the technology.
The 5G technology offers faster speeds and increased reliability than the existing 4G network, with Telstra turning on its new technology for the first time today in Perth, Adelaide and Canberra.
Perth’s first mobile base station to be upgraded is at the Narrows Bridge.
“Today’s signing marks a strategic partnership that has developed between Telstra and Ericsson over many years, and one that has resulted in nearly 40 world and Australian firsts,” Telstra chief executive Andrew Penn said.
“Today’s announcement also coincides with the launch of our 50th 5G-enabled site in Australia.
“Ericsson has worked closely with us to ensure Canberra, Adelaide and Perth are among the first locations in Australia to be upgraded with 5G technology.”
In August, Telstra announced it had started switching on 5G technology in Australia, with over 50 base stations now upgraded.
Other locations include Brisbane, Toowoomba and the Gold Coast.
Mr Penn said the signing of Ericsson was critical to the rollout.
“Telstra has a history of investing ahead of the technology curve to ensure we have the latest capabilities in place to serve our customers,” he said.
“We're proud to partner with Ericsson to pioneer 5G technology in this country and to ensure that together we continue to deliver market leading innovation in networks.
“Telstra’s rollout of 5G is underpinned by the around $5 billion in mobile network investment over the three years to June 30 2019, consistent with previous guidance, to enhance the capacity, capability and reach of Telstra’s network.”
Ericsson chief executive Börje Ekholm praised the partnership.
“Telstra and Ericsson have continued to demonstrate industry leadership through ongoing innovation and collaboration with best in class partners needed to build an end-to-end 5G ecosystem,” Mr Ekholm said.
“Together we have put in place the fundamentals that will enable Telstra to succeed in 5G.
“Through our extensive collaborative efforts, we will ensure Australia is at the cutting edge of mobile technology.”