3G is short for 'third generation'. The main difference between 3G and 2G networks is how quickly data can be sent and received. Using a software enhancement called High Speed Downlink Packet Access (HSDPA), 3G networks can send data many times faster than the rates of earlier 2G networks, which means that in addition to audio, graphics and text, 3G customers can also send and receive video content in 3G coverage areas.
Telstra's existing 3G network
Our existing 3G network is a third generation mobile network utilising the 3GSM standard on the 2100Mhz frequency band. It is an evolution of our existing second generation (2G and 2.5G) mobile technologies (GSM and GPRS).
Please note our existing 3G network should not be confused with our new Next G™ network, as the existing 3G network is only available in selected areas of Sydney, Melbourne, Geelong, Brisbane and Gold Coast, Perth, Adelaide and Canberra.
This 3G network enables you to access advanced services such as video calling1 and provides coverage to more than 50 per cent of the Australian population.
To check coverage on the 3G network, go to Our Coverage.
Customers who have 3G services on the 3G 2100Mhz network continue to have access to this network after the launch of the new Next G network. However, to obtain the full national coverage benefits of the Next G network, customers with existing 3G mobile phones will need to upgrade to a Next G mobile phone.
It's important to know that our 3G 2100Mhz mobile phones also work on our GSM network. This means that if you are on a voice call and you move out of 3G coverage and into an area where GSM coverage exists, your mobile phone will recognise this and automatically switch onto our GSM network, seamlessly transferring your call. However, if you are on a video call and you move out of a 3G coverage area, your call will drop out as video calls are not supported on the GSM network.
Our 3G 2100Mhz network offers an exciting range of products and services which build on those available on our GSM network.
Some of these include:
- the ability to access a range of content and applications via our BigPond® Mobile Services portal
- video calling, Video MessageBank® and picture and video messaging (MMS)
- average download speeds of up to 200 kbps²
- the ability to access a range of content and applications via our BigPond® Mobile Services portal
Things you need to know
- For mobile to mobile video calling, both you and the person you are video calling must have a 3G or Next G compatible phone and be in the coverage area of the respective 3G or Next G network.
- These are average speeds. Upload speeds will be slower. Actual user speeds will vary depending on a variety of factors, including user location, network capacity, mobile device, transmission direction and external constraints (including, without limitation, the application in use).
