Telstra Selects Ericsson, HTC to launch Australia’s first 5G service

Today is a big day for 5G in Australia with Telstra announcing the launch of its first 5G device, the HTC 5G smart hub for business and the home. As Telstra’s 5G network partner, Ericsson has worked closely with Telstra to make 5G a reality in Australia.

So far, Telstra together with Ericsson has rolled-out 5G in 10 cities around Australia and over the next 12 months or so will increase to reach at least 35 Australian cities.

In addition to the HTC 5G smart hub launch, Telstra will also launch commercial 5G mobility on May 28 – with commercially available 5G smartphones.

Telstra sees the roll out of 5G as a game-changing moment. It is eight years since Telstra launched 4G in Australia and more than seven since its first 4G smartphone.

Ericsson currently has 18 publicly announced 5G contracts. The Telstra partnership means Ericsson is now supporting six live 5G networks globally, Telstra’s being the first in the southern hemisphere.

Telstra launches Australia’s first 5G mobile device

5G becomes a reality for Australians as Telstra launches the country’s first 5G mobile device, the HTC 5G Hub. The HTC 5G Hub is available to order online today and will be available from Telstra Stores on 28th May.

The HTC 5G Hub is the world’s first 5G/4GX media hotspot. It functions equally as a secure mobile corporate solution and a family entertainment hub that can leverage 5G to stream shows and games to your TV in 4K.

Telstra’s CEO Andrew Penn said the launch of the HTC 5G Hub signified one of the company’s most important milestones in the transition to 5G, with customers now able to order a 5G device and, in select areas, enjoy 5G connectivity via the Telstra network.

“Our launch of the HTC 5G Hub is the moment 5G becomes a reality for Australian consumers,” Mr Penn said. “Since 2016, we have been working with some of the world’s leading technology brands to ensure Australians are among the first in the world to be able to access 5G.

“HTC has been a key partner for Telstra, innovating new technologies and driving greater connectivity for our customers. This launch of Australia’s first 5G mobile device is a testament to that partnership" Mr Penn continued “and we are proud to be launching it today”.

Thomas Dexmier, Country Manager HTC Australia and New Zealand said, “HTC is very proud to partner with Telstra to bring the first 5G media hotspot to Australia. With the HTC 5G Hub, customers will be able to experience the power and speed of Telstra’s 5G network in an innovative device, that combines the advanced capabilities of a mobile hotspot with the versatility of the Android operating system, allowing them to connect at home, at work, and on the go.”

5G has the potential to transform the way we all live and work, offering Australians the promise of better connectivity through greater network capacity, ultra-low latency, and faster speeds.

“This is just the start”. Penn said. “The roll out of 5G coverage is ongoing and, as 5G develops, there will be more devices and more technologies to come. But this is an important step we take today, as the first Australian network to offer mobile 5G”.

Telstra’s 5G rollout aims to bring the technology to areas where it matters most to customers. Its current footprint focusses on CBD locations and selected regional centres that over 4 million people live, work or pass through every day.

Throughout 2019, Telstra will be extending its 5G footprint even further to cover more cities, selected regional areas and traffic hotspots, ensuring even more Australians can access Telstra’s leading 5G technology.