Optus highlights dual-connectivity gains - Mobile World Live 03 AUG 2021 Optus claimed a first in Australia after partnering with Ericsson and MediaTek to showcase New Radio (NR) dual connectivity technology aggregating mid-band assets with mmWave spectrum simultaneously. In a statement, the operator explained a demonstration in Sydney highlighted the benefits of using spectrum in the 3.5GHz and 26GHz bands to extend 5G coverage over a greater distance, while significantly boosting average peak data rates. Optus expects to add the capability, which features MediaTek’s M80 5G modem, and Ericsson’s RAN basebands and 5G radios, across its 5G network later this year as commercial mmWave devices become available.