The countdown is on for people on Telecom’s older CDMA network to switch mobile networks.

Telecom announced over a year ago that the CDMA network would be closing on 31 July 2012.

From this date, CDMA customers will no longer be able to receive or make calls (including 111 calls), text or use mobile data.

Telecom’s acting chief executive officer, Chris Quin, says Telecom has been using a number of channels to inform customers of the imminent closure over the past year including exclusive offers to switch to XT.

“Over the last year we have communicated through text messages, direct mail, outbound calling, emails, public notices, online messages and videos, TV, radio and print advertising. We are confident we have covered all bases and there is awareness of the CDMA closure.

“We have also activated a series of pre-closure voice announcements that customers hear before calls they make from their CDMA phone,” Mr Quin adds.

“Our focus is on making the transition to XT as easy as possible for our customers by transferring their mobile number, prepaid credit and contacts to their new device.”

Mr Quin says Telecom stores have seen an influx of customers over the last few weeks, particularly in response to the company’s prepaid offer which gives CDMA prepaid customers a free $79 top-up credit when they purchase an XT device.

Post-paid CDMA customers who sign up to a 24 month plan on XT can choose from a range of handsets costing $0 upfront.

Telecom’s business arm, Gen-i, has also been working closely with corporate clients to ensure they are aware of their options ahead of the CDMA network closure. 

Customers can check if they are on the CDMA network by calling *333.

Further information

• Once customers have moved to XT, they can take their old CDMA phone to a Telecom store so it can be recycled into essential equipment and services for kids at StarshipHospital.
• Telecom can’t guarantee customers’ mobile numbers will be available after the 31st July 2012 when the CDMA network closes, unless they have switched mobile networks. 
• CDMA customers will not be able to access their voice mailbox from their CDMA device after the 31st July 2012 when the network closes. Telecom does however have the ability to put important voice messages onto CD’s if customers wish (please note this incurs a customer charge).Customers’ prepaid balance will expire when the network closes on 31 July 2012. However, we understand some customers may not have a chance to use all their prepaid credit. As an act of goodwill, if they have a high prepaid credit balance after the closure, they can contact Telecom to discuss a refund until 31 October 2012.
• For further information on the network closure, customers can visit www.telecom.co.nz/cdma or visit their local Telecom store.