Optus to convert entire 2G network to 3G

Stuart Corner
Tuesday, 30 January 2007 10:51

Business IT - Networking

He declined to comment on whether there had been any approach by either party to extending the agreement saying only that "as a courtesy we made sure they knew in advance about our plans."

He said that Optus would offer wholesale access to the new network, as it does with its existing 3G network. Telstra has said it does not intend to offer wholesale access to Next G.

Nokia has been the supplier of Optus 2G network since its inception and was chosen to build the 3G network under a turnkey contract. Optus has not yet selected a supplier for the regional extension but Calvert said Optus would be looking for a similar turnkey supplier, and that the size of the contract would put Optus in a strong negotiating position with potential suppliers.