It appears Telstra has decided to drop its entire range of branded ZTE devices, after yesterday’s news of ZTE’s woes in the US that demanded the smartphone vendor cease all “major operating activities”. This isn’t a couple of gadgets we’re talking about.
According to a post by Michele Garra, Telstra’s Head of Innovation & Strategy, the company will stop selling all ZTE phones and broadband hardware, effective immediately.
That’s over 20 devices, a list of which you’ll find below:
Telstra-branded ZTE devices no longer available from today:
Phones
- Telstra Flip 2
- Telstra Tough 4
- Telstra Tough 5
- Telstra Tough Max 2
- Telstra 4GX Enhanced
- Telstra 4GX Premium
- Telstra Flip 2
- Telstra Lite
- Telstra Lite Smart
- Telstra 4GX Smart
- Telstra Smart Plus
- Telstra 4GX Plus
- Telstra 4GX HD
- Telstra Easycall 4
- Telstra Slim Plus
- Telstra Buzz 4GX
- Telstra T96
- Telstra Tempo
- Telstra Cruise
Mobile broadband devices
- Telstra 4GX Wi-Fi
- Telstra 4GX Wi-Fi Plus
- Telstra Pre-Paid 4GX Wi-Fi
Garra’s post mentions that Telstra is “working with [its] device partners to source alternative models” and “contacting … customers directly to let them know that there is no immediate impact”.
A new FAQ on the company’s Crowd Support website repeatedly states the cessation of sales is expected to be temporary, though it’s obviously unclear at the moment what form replacement gadgets will take if ZTE is unable to resolve its problems:
I have a ZTE device, should I be worried?
Your device is not affected by our decision to temporarily stop sales and you can continue to use your device as usual to make/receive calls, send text and access the mobile internet.
The gist of the FAQ is that nothing has really changed for customers with ZTE phones — warranties, repairs and support will continue as normal.
[Telstra]
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