Trial over, Internode launches Naked ADSL2+

Dubbed 'NodePhone', the service has been launched at 350 telephone exchanges nationally, substantially increasing Internode's current foorprint of about 100 ADSL2+ equipped exchanges.

Internode's Naked ADSL2+ service joins a growing list of fleshy offerings from iiNet, GoTalk, iPrimus and Adam Internet, who have each launched their own Naked Broadband services since November last year.

According to NodePhone product manager Jim Kellett, the concept of Naked Broadband is expected to appeal to early adopters of the 'next stage of the broadband revolution'.

The service delivers an ADSL2+ Internet connection over a dial tone-free copper line. As such, it does not support a number of traditional telephony functions such as fax machines, monitored security alarms, and phone calls during a power failure.

However, Kellett said that Naked ADSL2+ services were not intended as a 'like for like' replacement of a traditional telephone service.

By eliminating the need for third-party line rental, the service is expected to deliver an estimated $20 in monthly savings for Internet users who are already using mobile phones and IP telephony for their voice needs.

Internode has initially launched an entry-level Naked ADSL2+ plan, which costs $59.95 for an ADSL2+ service with a 5 Gigabyte monthly download limit and the NodePhone1 service, which provides untimed 18-cent national calls.

The service is currently offered to new connections only. A service to convert existing voice lines to Naked ADSL2+ mode is slated for release next quarter. Both new connections and those requiring a conversion of existing voice lines will come with a $149 setup fee.

Further variations of Internode's Naked ADSL2+ service are also planned for launch later this year. The additional services are expected to include features such as Annex M technology for high-speed upsteam, Annex L technology for long-range services, and support for customers looking to transfer existing telephone numbers.

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