Optus to give free Wi-Fi to Uber passengers

Australian telco firm Optus has entered into an exclusive partnership with ride-sharing company Uber that will see passengers have access to free Wi-Fi.

According to a company statement, the two organisations will collaborate to deliver a range of experiences and exclusive offers.

Optus says it will introduce Uber as a business travel resource for its employees.

Steve Long, director, Local Markets at Optus, says the partnership was a great opportunity to align with a 'dynamic and innovative company' to improve mutual customer experience.

"Uber has fundamentally changed the way we think about getting from point A to point B, and for us this is an opportunity to create a truly connected experience for drivers and riders by using our superfast 4G Plus Network," Long says.

"Recognising that online access is a critical component of the Uber experience, we are offering exclusive offers to both drivers and passengers to access the fast and reliable Optus Network while they are in transit.

The current phase of activity for the partnership will include an exclusive offer made available to Uber drivers, and a trial of in-car 4G Wi-Fi for selected vehicles.

The in-car Wi-Fi trial will initially be rolled out in 100 vehicles in Sydney and Melbourne.

The in-car Wi-Fi device allows for up to ten devices to be connected at the same time, so all passengers will be able to access the Optus 4G Plus Network on the go.

Brent Annells, head of Business ANZ, Uber, says the partnership would yield significant benefits for both companies.

"We're thrilled to be partnering with Optus to open up the benefits of our platforms to more Australians," Annells says.

"Optus has truly embraced the benefits of ridesharing today by enabling their employees to access safe and reliable rides at the touch of a button, while Optus' deal for driver-partners will help make Uber the best and most efficient platform for partners to earn a flexible income," he explains.