Optus, HP launch laptop bundles

Optus has struck an agreement with HP which would see the telco bundle laptops with wireless and DSL broadband services for $0 upfront, similar to mobile phone contracts.

In an initiative announced on Friday, Optus World Stores would sell selected HP laptops with Optus internet services on a 24-month contract.

Monthly payments range from $49.95 per month for a Compaq Presario V2656AU model up to $139.95 per month for a HP Compaq nx6320 with Optus Broadband.

Buyers have the option to purchase Optus Wireless Connect with some models.

A customer on the $139.95 contract would pay $4077.60 for the laptop with Optus Wireless Connect plan (usually worth $29.95 per month). If the customer wanted to buy the HP Compaq nx6320 outright without the bundled plan, they would pay $2399 (retail), according to current pricing on HP’s Online store.

An Optus spokesperson told CRN, that all Optus World stores would carry the Compaq Presario V3020 as a live demonstration unit but would not hold stock, other than for demonstration purposes. Buyers would receive the notebook via a courier to their home or office.

The spokesperson declined to confirm whether the company was talking to other laptop manufacturers about offering similar bundled deals.

Termination fees apply if customers cancel their plans before the contract is completed, Optus said.