Telstra gets 'ok' to Close Down 'CDMA' Mobile Architecture

Alex Zaharov-Reutt
Tuesday, 15 April 2008 10:33

Business IT - Networking

CDMA... the cherished dear mobile architecture of rural and regional Australia is to be officially closed down come the 28th of April, 2008 – and boy, is Telstra happy!

It’s curtains for CDMA, the mobile technology that one powered the telecommunications of millions in Australia and tore down the barriers of the tyranny of distance.

The Minister of Communications, Senator Stephen Conroy, made the announcement this morning, saying that Telstra has met the requirements to allow closure of its CDMA mobile phone network.

Senator Conroy said that: “I am satisfied that Telstra has met the equivalence tests in its licence condition and has sufficiently rectified the problems I identified in January, including handheld handset coverage, customer information provision and the availability of equipment and services.”

He continued: “Today I urge anyone who still has a CDMA phone to make the necessary arrangements to switch to another network as quickly as possible.”

Senator Conroy’s press release noted that “Telstra has committed to continue to resolve customers’ issues through its dedicated 1800 888 888 freecall hotline and handset replacement program for people experiencing Next G coverage difficulties until 1 July 2008”, with Conroy saying: “Before these programs cease Telstra will report to me so I can assess whether the level of demand warrants an extension of the programs.”

Conroy’s release also notes that “Beyond 1 July, Telstra will continue to offer handset exchanges in genuine cases using its established mobiles customer service phone-line on 125 111.”

The release also urges customers who feel their CDMA and Next G issues haven’t been resolved to freecall the Department of Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy on 1800 883 488.

So, is Telstra delighted, or what? Please read onto page 2.