Oz Telco Telstra has big plans

nadnerB

So Telstra has some big plans on the horizon:
(dot points are my comments)

1Gbps hotspot, Wi-Fi calling, Video over LTE and 5G
Secret Sauce: http://www.finder.com.au/telstra-1gbps-hotspot-wi-fi-calling-video-over-lte-and-5g

1Gbps Hotspot
The new hotspot device will, like existing Telstra hotspot devices be produced by Netgear, based on the Qualcomm Snapdragon x16 chipset. Telstra indicated that it’s been designed for Telstra first in collaboration with Netgear but that the design could be used for devices in other markets once it's launched in Australia.

Wi-Fi calling by mid-year
Telstra also indicated that it will add the ability to use Wi-Fi networks to boost network capabilities in areas where mobile signals currently struggle.

Not really useful, but a nice to have.
Also, not a new concept in the market but you've got to keep up with the competition. Got to stay relevant to those city slickers, they've got the money that fund the rural sites.
I can't speak for the other cities but the mobile network in Perth was set up at a pirates convention, patches EVERYWHERE. Perth (closest city) is also flat as a pancake when compared to Brisbane or Sydney, connectivity shouldn't be an issue but here we are.

5G trials at the 2018 Commonwealth Games

I'm interested to see how this goes but that's still two years away. A lot of NBN is going to happen (granted it probably just politicians promises but I live in hope) between now and then.

JaredBusch

WiFi calling is a big deal. The author obviously has no need to have service in areas outside of tower range.

nadnerB

oops, my bad. The dot points are my comments.
Updated OP to reflect this.

nadnerB

@JaredBusch said:

WiFi calling is a big deal. The you obviously have no need to have service in areas outside of tower range.

FTFY

I do need service in areas outside of tower range but that's well away from the range of WiFi. I will admit though that I've been fortunate enough to never need WiFi calling as everywhere I've worked and lived has had great mobile reception.