After a few months of plugging the network and selling phones capable of the service, Optus has finally switched on its 2300MHz 4G network. That makes it the nation’s first multi-band 4G carrier.
Also: Telstra Reportedly Testing 450mbps 4G Network
The dual-band network, which Optus is annoyingly calling “4G Plus”, is now live in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Adelaide.
The play to launch multi-band 4G isn’t aimed at boosting speeds (although that might be an ancillary effect of the launch), primarily it’s designed for a more consistent and less congested 4G experience for customers.
By having both an FD-LTE/1800MHz network and a TD-LTE/2300MHz network, Optus can ensure that customers are moved around the network efficiently, ensuring a better service experience for everyone.
Right now the only phones in market that support dual-band 4G are the Samsung Galaxy S4 Mini and the updated Samsung Galaxy S4. Samsung’s Galaxy Note III is coming to market with dual-band support, as is the LG G2 and the new Apple iPhone 5c and Apple iPhone 5s.
More: 4G In Australia Explained
1800MHz? 2100MHz? 700MHz? What frequencies are Australian 4G networks on right now, and what does the future hold? Here’s what you need to know.