Telstra 1Gbps mobile hotspot incoming

Telstra will launch a WiFi hotspot in 2016 capable of speeds up to 1Gbps, or 10-times faster than the maximum NBN fixed-line broadband speeds.

According to the SMH, Telstra staff spoke about the upcoming network upgrades during the annual Mobile World Congress event in Barcelona this week, saying that the super-fast speeds would be available first in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane.

The modem itself is expected to be bigger than most mobile broadband devices, with an enormous 4600mAh battery and the ability to connect up to 20 devices simultaneously.

Though talk of new 5G networks are swirling around the trade show this year, the 1Gbps speeds will be delivered over the 4G network using category 16 network protocols. 

This does mean that customers will need the new WiFi modem, or future compatible devices, to achieve the incredible speeds.  

Telstra tower image via Shutterstock

Joseph Hanlon

Editorial Director | X | LinkedIn

Joe Hanlon has been immersed in mobile phones, plans and the internet for over a decade, having written for publications like CNET, Techradar, Gizmodo and Lifehacker. He steers the editorial ship and makes sure that we are always serving up the most useful guides and recommendations. If you ever bump into Joe on the street, don't be afraid to ask for a phone recommendation. It's embarrassing how much he enjoys talking about this stuff. He also loves listening to podcasts, so feel free to email Joe with recommendations.

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