Vodafone Australia has connected its first customers to the National Broadband Network (NBN). They will be able to access mobile, pay-TV and high-speed broadband services from the operator as a result. Vodafone is trialling TV services with FetchTV, including HD movies on demand, and femtocell technology with the Vodafone Expand product through the NBN. Vodafone Expand boosts indoor signals for Vodafone 3G mobile devices, providing call quality and mobile internet access. The trial is underway in Armidale, New South Wales, and Vodafone is planning similar trials in Kiama, New South Wales and Brunswick, Victoria in 2012. Australia's communication minister Stephen Conroy welcomed Vodafone's entry on the fixed-line market, saying it "demonstrates the value of the NBN as an open access, wholesale only provider", which can help stimulate competition in retail services.
