4g

Telstra, Optus and TPG Shell Out For Faster 4G

The future of 4G in Australia took a big step forward this morning after the results of the government’s Digital Dividend were announced. Telstra, Optus and TPG Internet have collectively parted with almost $2 billion to secure spectrum in the 700MHz and 2.5GHz bands. For consumers and businesses, this will translate to faster 4G services. Here’s what each telco plans to do with their slice of the spectrum pie.


OpenSignal Finds The Best Mobile Data And Wi-Fi Connections On iOS

iOS: OpenSignal is a do-it-all toolkit for improving your mobile data and Wi-Fi connectivity. Previously only available for Android, iPhone users can now use this handy utility for maximizing their connection on the go.


Vodafone 4G: When And Where

We know Vodafone is putting the finishing touches on the first phase of its 4G network, but details have today trickled out from the CEO about when you can get it and more importantly, where you can get it. Read on to find out what the telco has planned.


Vodafone Australia Planning 4G Launch In June

We still don’t have a firm launch date or pricing plans, but Vodafone has confirmed that its long-in-development 4G network should be active by June this year. As Luke reports over at Gizmodo, the initial rollout will concentrate on capital cities, with Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth in the first batch of contenders.


Briefly: Telstra’s 4G Works In The Ocean, Australian Government To Tackle Racist Facebook Groups, Samsung Confirms ‘Smartwatch’ Development

Brief news items of note for Lifehacker readers including: Telstra’s 4G works at sea, Australian Government speaks out against Facebook racism, Samsung confirms existence of smartwatch.


How Long Before 4G Starts Costing Us More?

One of the more remarkable aspects of 4G data in Australia is that, to date, we haven’t had to pay any extra for it. If you have a suitable device, neither Telstra or Optus charges extra for using the 4G network, a factor which has undoubtedly driven rapid uptake of the technology. But are we kidding ourselves if we imagine that will continue indefinitely?


Ask LH: Does My iPad Need 4G For Travel?

Hi Lifehacker, interested in your thoughts. I’m planning on travelling with an iPad as my main computing device. Is it more cost effective and user friendly to get a Wi-Fi model and take a pocket hotspot, or get a model with a 3G/4G SIM slot and grab a SIM when I’m overseas? Thanks, Pad Thai


How Mobile Network Usage Will Change Your Work Environment

Everyone you know has a smartphone and mobile data network usage is growing hugely, but what do those developments mean for IT pros when it comes to managing and deploying apps and equipment? Here are some key trends to watch out for (including average download speeds for Aussies and how many of us really use 4G) and what they’ll mean for your future projects.


Will An Antenna Give You Faster Mobile Broadband Download Speeds?

Using an antenna in terrible reception areas to make your phone or broadband work is a good idea. But will using an antenna in an area where you already have reception make a significant difference to your internet speeds if you’ve already got fair reception?


Will Telstra’s 900MHz 4G Mean Everyone Needs New Devices?

Telstra is planning to introduce a 900MHz version of Next G to help it expand its 4G network in regional areas. Will that be enough to help it maintain decent 4G speeds, and will you need a new device to use it? The short answer: probably yes for your phone, possibly no for your mobile broadband.


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