Telstra snaps up Boost Mobile – What does it mean for prepaid customers?
Telstra has acquired Boost Mobile's prepaid services, with the deal set to be finalised by the end of the month.
In a not-so-surprising move, Telstra's 13-year partnership with Boost Mobile is becoming much more concrete.
I'm a Boost Mobile prepaid customer. Will I be impacted?
If you have a prepaid mobile service with Boost, don't worry – nothing's changing.
You'll still have your Boost-branded SIM, the same app, and everything else.
Previously, Telstra was responsible for the operational parts of Boost.
So things like network access, product development, pricing and customer service.
Boost was the brains behind the branding and marketing.
Now, it'll be integrated with Telstra and work as a "standalone team focused on continuing to deliver the Boost branded experience".
Why aren't we surprised?
It makes sense, as Telstra explains in the media release, that the telco giant is focusing on a multi-brand strategy.
It's already made strides with its sub-brand Belong, launched in 2013.
And since Boost is the only smaller provider with full access to the Telstra network, this acquisition was probably bound to happen eventually.
"We know Boost branded products are a fantastic option for those seeking more affordable mobile connectivity and we are committed to providing that choice in the market," says group executive for Telstra consumer, Brad Whitcomb.
I'm not with Boost Mobile. Are its plans worth it?
Yes, if you want full access to the Telstra network without signing up with Telstra directly.
But its 365-day long-expiry prepaid plans are where the money's at if you're happy to commit long-term.
- $300 for 265GB when you first sign up, then 240GB ongoing. Sign up here
- $320 for 365GB when you sign up by 2 December, otherwise the usual price is $365. Sign up here
Other perks of signing up with Boost include international call inclusions, data rollover on its 28-day expiry plans and an app to track your data usage and manage your plan.
Alternatively, check out our roundup of the best mobile plans on the Telstra network to see if you can find a better deal from another small provider.