Optus announced today it had partnered with leading notebook manufacturer, Hewlett-Packard (HP), to offer customers a new and exclusive deal to combine their internet and computing needs.

From today (7 August 2006), consumers and small businesses can purchase a complete mobile computing package including an HP notebook combined with an Optus broadband connection with no upfront cost.

Each offer is designed to allow customers to use the full potential of their notebook - they come with a variety of programs including Windows XP, are backed by enhanced or extended warranties and are connected to Optus Broadband using a DSL connection or via Optus Wireless Connect.

There are a series of HP notebooks on offer from the Consumer and SMB product ranges, including selected Compaq Presario and HP Compaq products. Payment plans start at $69.90 per month for both the notebook and broadband connection, when combined with an Optus home phone or an eligible mobile plan over 24 months.

Mike Smith, Marketing Director Optus Consumer, said the Optus and HP partnership had created a one-stop-shop for consumers and small businesses so they could enjoy a hassle-free experience when wanting to get online.

"At Optus we understand how time consuming it can be to set up a new computer with all the bells and whistles, so we have taken the steps to create a package that will ensure our customers experience the speed and simplicity of Optus Broadband powered by the latest technology from HP.

"We chose to partner with a trusted brand like HP to ensure our customers benefited from a range of powerful notebooks while accessing Optus' lightning-fast broadband. Our customers will also benefit from being able to take possession of their new notebook while paying it off via their monthly Optus Mobile or Broadband bill," Mr Smith said.

Stuart Tucker, Marketing Director Optus Small & Medium Business, said IDC research had shown Australians were substituting their desktop computers for mobile PCs with 70 per cent of PC sales expected to come from notebooks this year.

"At Optus it is our mission to stay in touch with market trends to ensure we meet the needs of our customers. With notebook sales being so strong in Australia we are extremely confident that small businesses will appreciate the simplicity of conducting their PC and internet shopping in one place.

"The Optus and HP alliance has created a mobile office for our small business customers by giving them the freedom and flexibility to use their laptop and Optus Wireless Connect card while on the move.

"In addition, the plans offer great value with regular monthly payment options to assist small business operators in managing cash flow. Our customers can be confident that they won't see this kind of offer anywhere else in the market," Mr Tucker said.

Nicholas Lynch, Market Development Manager, HP Consumer Notebooks, said: "HP's partnership with Optus offers customers the flexibility of purchasing a complete mobile computing package. This partnership is testament to HP's ongoing commitment to providing integrated and compelling notebook solutions."

Note to Editor:

• All eligible HP notebooks come with the option of selecting either Optus Broadband or Optus Wireless Connect.
  - Optus Broadband offers high speed, hassle free internet access which is always connected, without interrupting phone calls.
  - Optus Wireless Connect allows customers to use their notebook while on the move using the Optus WiFi, 3G or GSM networks.
• The Consumer range includes software to get consumers up and running, including Corel® WordPerfect® Office X3 and Corel® Photo Album and DVD software, Microsoft® Encarta Encyclopedia, Microsoft® Money, Symantec™ Norton Anti-Virus™ & Internet Security 2006 (60 days live update).
• The Small Business range includes Microsoft® Office 2003 Basic as well as a range of business services provided by HP, specifically designed for Small & Medium Businesses.
• The Optus and HP laptop/broadband offers can be taken up at any Optus World Store or by calling Optus telesales on 131 839. Optus small and medium business customers can also arrange for an Optus Business Direct dealer to visit them at their premises by calling 131 894.

For further information on the offers, visit:

• Consumers: www.optus.com.au/notebooks
• Small & Medium Businesses: www.optus.com.au/businessnotebook

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