Optus giving away 20,000 handsets to struggling customers ahead of the 3G shut down

Optus will give away 20,000 handsets to customers doing it tough and struggling to replace their device ahead of the 3G shut down at the end of September.

Optus has put several measures in place including providing a free mobile handset to eligible customers who may be going through financial issues, the elderly and others experiencing various difficulties.

More than 2.6 million messages – including emails, letters and SMS messages – have been sent out to impacted customers who may be without a mobile connection after the last 3G network is closed for good at the end of September.

Optus is also offering other options for customers looking to stay connected after the 3G closure with selected devices available for $1 a month on a 24 or 36 month contract.

Meanwhile postpaid customers will receive up to a $400 discount on any smartphone on an eligible plan.

This means, with so many impressive phones priced under $400, Optus customers could pay nothing for their device when purchased on a 24 or 36 month plan.

The smartphones on offer here include devices from Samsung, Oppo and Motorola.

 “There are no-cost handsets, special discounts, budget offers and more for customers impacted by the 3G switch off as we fast approach the Optus deadline,” says Optus Head of New Products, Harvey Wright.

“This is all about keeping customers connected, so please engage with us to upgrade your handset.

“We know that many impacted customers are actually using a 4G handset that reverts to 3G for calls, so it’s vital these customers understand the importance of upgrading their handsets when notified.

“We have already sent millions of messages directly to impacted customers, established support measures to understand if your handset needs to be upgraded, offered special deals and we also have trained professional staff only a phone call away and in our retail outlets ready to assist.”

Any Optus customer unsure if their phone will work after the 3G closure can text “3” to 3498 from the mobile handset in question to find out if they need to upgrade.

Customers can also visit an Optus store or call 1300 219 070 while prepaid customers can call 1300 720 225.

Australian Mobile Telecommunications Association (AMTA) has launched a ‘Check My Device’ tool in partnership with Optus to help Australians prepare for the 3G networks switch off here.