Telstra today confirmed the Treo Pro by Palm as the first smartphone on the Next G network to be accredited with Telstra's Blue Tick of approval showing that it is recommended for handheld use in metro, rural and regional areas.

Telstra Country Wide, Group Managing Director, Mr Geoff Booth, said Telstra's Blue Tick accreditation is based on thorough device testing and sets Telstra apart from the competition in terms of customer education.

"The Treo Pro combines the benefits of wider coverage on the Next G network with the added functionality of a smartphone. Customers will be able to stay connected to their work and personal lives with access to email, calendar, contacts and the web in more places across Australia.

"Business users will enjoy the benefits of Microsoft Windows Mobile 6.1, including access to corporate networks, email and other popular business applications, which combined create a personal computer experience on the small screen accessible in more places while on the go," he said.

Telstra Product Management, Executive Director, Mr Ross Fielding, said the new Treo Pro will appeal to customers who want to combine style and functionality with strong coverage performance.

"The Treo Pro is the ninth handset and first smartphone to be awarded the all important Telstra Blue Tick of approval giving customers ever greater choice to stay connected on our Next G network," he said.

"The Treo Pro is a well designed all-in-one smartphone that combines email, organiser and web browser with a 2MP digital video camera, WiFi radio, GPS and much more. It boasts a thin design, flush high-resolution colour touch screen, a full qwerty keyboard and removable battery.

"From Telstra's My Place menu, customers can access all their favourite applications, and Telstra's wide range of rich content and services, including 33 channels of Mobile FOXTEL from Telstra, Sensis Search and the recently upgraded Whereis Navigator.

Treo Pro has a recommended retail price of $929 and is available on a range of plans, including $0 upfront on an $80 Telstra Business phone plan for 24 months. It will be available exclusively on Telstra's Next G network from Telstra Shops and dealers from mid September 2008, online at www.telstra.com, or by calling 1800BUSINESS.

Telstra Media Contact:
Peter Taylor