Telstra: CDMA customers avoid the Next G network rush

Telstra Country Wide director, Gary Goldsworthy, claimed that Telstra Shops had already recorded a spike of interest in Next G mobile services following confirmation that the CDMA network would close later this month.

"A lot of CDMA customers have put off migrating to the Next G network as it's human nature to leave things to the last minute,” he said. “The situation has certainly changed, as we have recorded a surge of interest in Next G services following the announcement that the CDMA network will close on 28 April 2008.”

Given the increased interest in the Next G network, Telstra is encouraging all customers to upgrade well before the CDMA shut off date to avoid any delays, Goldsworthy said.

According to Goldsworthy Telstra was now in the process of contacting all remaining CDMA customers and advising them of the final closure date. He said that the best advice for customers who had yet to migrate to the Next G™ network was to visit their local Telstra Shop or dealer.

"As part of our retail accreditation program we have trained staff on stand-by and in-store information to help customers make a smooth transition to the Next G network,” he said. "There are now over 60 Next G devices in market and we have different mobile handsets for different purposes. For example, Blue Tick handsets that maximise handheld coverage are ideal for people living or working in rural areas and our shop staff can help customers make the right choice, the first time round," Goldsworthy said.

He claimed that after sales support was available, with Telstra operating the 1800 888 888 information line until 1 July to help customers who were experiencing genuine problems with their Next G handsets.

"All these initiatives are designed to help CDMA customers move across to the Next G network with the minimum of fuss and heartache," said Goldsworthy.