Optus announce launch of 3G Home Zone, Australia’s first national femtocell service

Optus has announced the Optus 3G Home Zone, Australia’s first national femtocell service which will transform the home phone market, providing personalised mobile coverage to the home or home office combined with a great value unlimited call offer.

Michael Smith, Managing Director, Optus Consumer said, “We believe today’s announcement signifies the biggest challenge to the Australian home phone since services began nearly 130 years ago.

“As many Australians struggle with the rising cost of living, Optus is delivering new innovations to help our customers stay connected and, in the process, pay less.

“The Optus 3G Home Zone meets these needs – providing up to five bars of coverage in the home and unlimited standard national calls for the primary user – all from just $5 per month.

The Home Zone device plugs into any compatible fixed broadband service and delivers up to five bars of personalised and dedicated mobile coverage for up to four simultaneous users.

The Optus 3G Home Zone provides a reliable phone service and features 3G data services like email, internet browsing and social networking websites within a 30-metre radius of the Home Zone unit.

A commercial pilot which commenced in April 2011 preceeded the launch, with Optus now extending the service to all major capital cities as well as large regional centres.

“As our major competitor raises line rental costs Optus is providing a great value alternative for the home calling needs of our customers.

“Customers involved in our recent trial love the fact that they are receiving personal and dedicated coverage where they need it most,” Mr Smith said.

Rohan Ganeson, Managing Director, Optus Small and Medium Business said, “The Optus 3G Home Zone allows small businesses to manage costs more effectively by offering a real value alternative for voice services within the home and small office.

“With more businesses using smartphones, the Optus 3G Home Zone is also a cost effective option for providing the dedicated coverage that a small business needs,” he said.

The Optus 3G Home Zone devices will be available through selected Optus retail outlets from 31 July 2011.