Optus successfully trials LTE technology, achieves 50Mbps download speeds

Optus has successfully demonstrated its Long Term Evolution (LTE) technology operating on 2100 MHz spectrum and achieving download speeds of more than 50Mbps.

The telco held the demonstration at a media briefing in Sydney where the director of product portfolio planning, Henry Calvert, said Optus will be able to provide greater options in the workplace once the LTE technology is deployed.

“Mobile broadband is starting to show similar results as if you were at home on your PC; 84 per cent of Optus’ customers seem to be using mobile broadband,” Calvert said.

Calvert told CIO LTE would have a large impact on CIO decision making due to quick download speeds on both smartphones and mobile broadband devices.

“We’re hoping to provide a framework for CIOs. It’s no longer just about home working – it’s about security when it comes to mobile devices.

“We’re trying to make life easier for CIOs – they want security with their devices,” Calvert said.

Calvert said while Optus has yet to set a date for the launch of LTE, it will be a longer term strategy.

“We’re looking at this as a 10- to 15-year investment strategy. It’s important to Optus that our customers have choices in regards to devices,” he said.

View photos from the event.