Australia’s 5G network is undergoing significant advancements, with Telstra investing $800 million in a four-year plan to enhance its infrastructure, paving the way for a future 6G network. As part of this initiative, Telstra has partnered with Elon Musk’s Starlink to ensure reliable text message services across the nation, even in remote areas.
Channa Seneviratne, Telstra’s executive for technology engagement advancement, expressed the company’s ambition to make its 5G network the most advanced and resilient in Australia. The improvements will focus initially on higher speeds, followed by the integration of artificial intelligence, which aims to enhance user connections and lay the groundwork for 6G technology. According to technology expert Trevor Long, just as 4G evolved over the years, 5G is set to become more efficient and capable of delivering better service.
While a full roll-out of the 6G network is not anticipated until around 2030, discussions about its specifications and speed are ongoing among global leaders. Federal Communications Minister Michelle Rowland highlighted the importance of collaboration between the government and industry to prioritise the public interest, drawing lessons from past transitions such as the 3G switchover.
Seneviratne conveyed the exciting possibilities of future connectivity, predicting scenarios where robots communicate with each other and vehicles interact with wearable technology. However, in the immediate term, users can expect less latency and an improved experience with existing networks.
Currently, text messaging and calling from remote locations remain a challenge due to significant blackspots, particularly in inland Australia. Nevertheless, the integration of satellite technology through partnerships like Starlink is expected to change this landscape. Long asserted that within two years, Australians should be able to use their phones to make calls or send text messages from virtually any location with a clear view of the sky. This shift is viewed as a pivotal advancement in connectivity and part of Telstra’s broader vision for the future.
In summary, Australia’s telecommunications landscape is on the verge of major evolution, as Telstra’s ongoing improvements and partnerships signal a commitment to providing comprehensive and resilient mobile coverage across the nation.