At its launch, Telstra was pretty insistent that the USB dongle for its new 4G/LTE network was only available for contract purchasers. However, it turns out that if you identify yourself as a business customer, you can buy it outright for $299.
Reader Beau first pointed this out, and on checking with Telstra it confirmed that despite those earlier comments, business customers could purchase the USB device for $299 outright. Given that there’s no extra charge for LTE access over other services, this makes sense. How the business requirement is enforced will vary — some stores might demand an ABN or evidence of an existing Telstra business account — but if you don’t want a contract deal, it can’t hurt to ask. Thanks Beau!
Republished from Lifehacker
Rosscify
Wednesday, September 28, 2011 at 3:45 PMThe business modems don’t usually work with BigPond accounts though…
Fred Sacroug
Wednesday, September 28, 2011 at 4:44 PMI really don,t know why it is needed with all other devices available such as mobile phone tablets
Andy
Wednesday, September 28, 2011 at 4:48 PMI’m pretty sure I could get a 4G/LTE enabled phone from the states for $300…
Jason
Thursday, September 29, 2011 at 11:10 PMthe US carriers are using different LTE frequencies (700 vs 1800 for Oz), so you will only get 3G HSPA+ speeds instead of LTE
Loanne
Wednesday, September 28, 2011 at 6:08 PMJB hi Fi will be selling the consumer ones outright for the same price, whether you choose to go on a plan with a 24 commitment will determine if Telstra partially subsidizes the device for you on your first bill…
Duzz
Wednesday, September 28, 2011 at 9:43 PMThereby allowing Telstra to screw over its customers with its outrageous pre-paid pricing options!
karlos
Thursday, September 29, 2011 at 11:50 AMTelstra, dont be fooled there phone plans are absolutely ridiculous they charge 50c to send an international text!, because other providers are too cheap to instal repeater stations up north i think Telstra are bullies and thieves my phone bill when i worked in halls creeks average $700 a month!! compared to same amount of txt ing down here for $40 on another provider… you do the math;-(
Nicole
Sunday, October 2, 2011 at 3:39 PMHi Karlos,
I work for Telstra so just letting you know that perhaps you are on the wrong plan?
The new $129 freedom connect (or $99 byo option) is unlimited calls and txt within aust, 3GB of data and includes $50 of international value.
Might be worthwhile checking out