Telstra boosts smartphone data

In a few hours, Apple's hyped iPhone 4 handset will launch in Australia. But Telstra hasn't yet finished tweaking its launch plans for the device and other smartphones.

This morning Telstra revealed it would upgrade the amount of data available to consumers purchasing one of several next-generation handsets on post-paid plans on the Next G network. The handsets include the iPhone 4 and 3GS, the HTC Desire and the Nokia N97 mini.

The boosts — which range from 300MB up to a whopping 5GB extra for Telstra's top offerings — apply to a range of Telstra Consumer Cap Plans and Ultimate II plans.

For example, those who purchase one of the listed handsets on a Telstra AU$79 Consumer Cap Plan will now receive 1GB of included data (up from 500MB), and those on the AU$129 plan will receive 6GB of included data (up from 1GB). Similar upgrades will apply to the telco's Ultimate II plans.

Telstra customers will receive upgraded data allocations on its top three smartphones. (Credit: Telstra Exchange)

The updated Telstra iPhone 4 offerings. (Credit: Telstra Exchange)

"We know our customers love accessing the mobile internet on the Next G network as much as they love a MasterChef cook-off," said Telstra executive director of its consumer division, Rebekah O'Flaherty, in a blog post on Telstra's Exchange site — referring to the planned attendance by MasterChef Australia stars at Telstra's iPhone launch event tonight.

"And over the past couple of days you've told us that you'd like more data included to use with some of our hottest smartphones — including the iPhone 4."

The upgraded data allowances will apply to new and existing customers who sign up to the contracts until 1 November this year. "Further pricing details will be launched over the next couple of days," said O'Flaherty.

The news comes as other telcos continue to release pricing information relating to the iPhone 4 launch tonight — for example, Virgin Mobile's plans were revealed this morning.