Telstra will close down their old 2G network in the area on December 1, officially ending a chapter in the country’s telecommunications history.
Telstra area manager Boyd Brown said the 2G network has operated for more than 20 years, and was once the leading mobile network for West Australians.
“At the time, just making a phone call on the move was a novelty,” he said.
“Times have changed and 2G traffic now acocunts for less than 1 per cent of our total network traffic.”
Mr Boyd said shutting down the network would allow Telstra to focus on the 3g and 4G networks and providing better services in local communities such as Notham, York and surrounding areas.
“We want to make sure the last remaining 2G customers are well prepared for the change and we’re contacting our customers directly to help them make the switch,” Mr Boyd said.
“If you’re not sure if you;re on the 2G network, simply look at the top of your phone screen. If you see either 2G, GPRS, E or EDGE displayed, that means you are using 2G.
“We encourage customers to contact us or go into their local store to discuss their options.”
Mr Brown said the switch over is as simple as getting a new SIm card, or a new phone and new SIM card. Customers will not need to change their current mobile phone plan,
He said new SIM cards can be arranged in store at no cost and new 3G phones start from as little as $29.
