Australian mobile network operator (MNO) Optus has switched on its 5G Standalone (SA) network for commercial use after close to a year of testing and customer trials.
Confirming the development, the cellco noted that its residential users will initially be able to access the network on ‘selected plans with a 5G SIM in a compatible handset such as a Samsung S22 or OPPO X3’. Looking ahead, the MNO expects more handset manufacturers to offer 5G SA capability on their devices ‘over the next few months’. While information regarding coverage of the network was not detailed, a statement regarding the 5G SA network switch-on made by Optus’ VP Networks, Lambo Kanagaratnam, did note: ‘5G Standalone will provide a greater 5G coverage footprint which means you’ll be able to connect to 5G in more places.’
Source: https://www.commsupdate.com/articles/2022/08/16/optus-confirms-switch-on-of-its-5g-sa-network/