This was posted 12 years 9 months 10 days ago, and might be an out-dated deal.

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Garmin Asus A50: $0 Upfront on $19 Cap for Only 12 Months (100mb, $70 Value, Free Facebook etc)

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Garmin Asus A50: $0 Upfront on $19 Cap for Only 12 Months (100mb, $70 Value, Free Facebook etc)
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BlueJay87 on 18/07/2011 - 21:23 optus.com.au (1489 clicks)
Last edited 18/07/2011 - 21:26

Pretty decent bargain for what is meant to be a solid smart phone with an excellent GPS.

Would love to get this but would mean I'd have to leave virgin and its free talk and text between members. This would, however, be a great deal for someone who doesn't make a lot of calls or texts (or data, though fb etc is free).

The minimal 12 month contract offers great flexibility too. After 12 months you could upgrade to whatever phones are going around then, and potentially use this as a standalone GPS in your car.

Works out to $228 over the 12 months. Pretty decent since only recently this phone was $200 outright on prepaid.
Must be the last few remaining stock of this phone that optus has. Probably will be gone quick.

EDIT: not sure why the link just goes to the optus website, but here is the link I wanted to provide: http://www.optus.com.au/store/phone/garminasusa50

Mobile Garmin Garmin A50 Android

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Optus
Optus

closed Comments

  • [Deactivated] on 18/07/2011 - 21:39
    +1

    A50 still has free lifetime map updates.
    Using this phone overseas at the moment with unlocked maps, and comes in handy.

    • [Deactivated] on 18/07/2011 - 22:57

      I've got the same phone. How do you get unlocked maps for overseas? Also which countries?

      • [Deactivated] on 19/07/2011 - 00:38
        +1

        noeman.org was where I got them from. Requires copying some rom map files onto the microSD card.
        Have so far used this phone in Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, USA and at present in Ireland to date, and has a good GPS fix.
        Better than carrying a dedicated car GPS when walking about.

  • bigbear on 18/07/2011 - 21:48

    anyone has any idea whether this has the original Android 1.6, or the updated 2.1?

    • netsurfer on 18/07/2011 - 22:03
      +1

      Android 2.1. The GPS on this phone is one of the best (for a mobile phone) - finds your location very fast. Garmin GPS software is also another plus.

      The not so good bits - 1) the mount point for app install wasn't setup correctly (causing large apps not able to install - basically, Asus stuffed up a bit). 2) part of the OS is not open sourced - so custom firmware (i.e. if you think about froyo) is not possible. 3) earphones/handsfree require miniUSB ones (no 3.5mm plug).

      Good deal… but watch out for $19 cap - $70 & 100MB per month is not enough (esp. if Optus count data in 10MB block).

      • IVI on 19/07/2011 - 07:41

        Shouldn't BlueTooth solve the "no 3.5mm jack" issue?

      • IVI on 19/07/2011 - 08:13

        At least 3 reviews suggest or state it's Android 1.6 (or was 1.6, around the start of 2011).

        Where is it written that it may be 2.1 ?

      • netsurfer on 19/07/2011 - 10:45

        The most recent Prepaid ones are Android 2.1. Even if it comes with 1.6, you can upgrade it from the Web site. Besides, you will most likely upgrade the Garmin map to the latest one.

        Bluetooth headset - if you have one, then that's fine. Asus did provide a handsfree kit (miniUSB plug). I still prefer a 3.5mm - just one more option for me to use my headphones.

      • Ozem61 on 19/07/2011 - 14:34

        The A50 comes with a miniUSB -> 3.5mm adaptor lead which is also includes the basic handsfree mike and volume control for the 3.5 mm headphone connection.

  • czz on 18/07/2011 - 21:50
    +1

    pretty good if your on fb 24/7 - "$70 included value1
    100MB Data2
    Unlimited3 access within Australia to Facebook®, Twitter®, LinkedIn, MySpace, eBay and Foursquare within Australia"

    • IVI on 19/07/2011 - 07:47

      "3" still want $1 / mon for unlimited eBay access (but $4 got us a hard-to-use-up 700mb / mon on a prev deal, from long ago)

      And, we can decide what to use our 700 mb of Internet data for.

      Mobile TV is also free, as I recall, but we don't watch it.

      Social networking is also free w/ our 3 deal; again, we don't use it.

    • IVI on 19/07/2011 - 08:27

      Do you like tap-typing on a touch-pad, eg, to do 24/7 social networking?

  • ozb-442 on 18/07/2011 - 21:51

    +1 on this deal. Pretty good phone for the price, GPS is good to. My step-dad has one and he really likes it.

  • czz on 18/07/2011 - 21:51

    GPS alone is already $120 ;O

  • gimme on 18/07/2011 - 21:52
    +1

    it's 2.1 now. I've had it for 18mths. Good phone with very solid GPS reception

    • czz on 18/07/2011 - 21:57

      How is browsing internet and sending sms any lag/delay? that is not acceptable?

      • Apostle0748 on 19/07/2011 - 12:52

        I didn't find it acceptable. A lot of the time I missed calls etc. because the phone was rather slow. I could still do everything, but I certainly couldn't live with it and subsequently moved over to WP7.

        The GPS in it however, is absolutely awesome. When I found the phone wasn't good enough for web browsing/SMS, I thought "ohh shit, what a waste of $200"… but because it came with a car kit + charger etc., I installed it in my car and use it as a GPS.

        • Bargain-er on 19/07/2011 - 14:36

          Is the car kit + charger comes with standard package or is it a promotional bundle? Thanks.

        • Apostle0748 on 20/07/2011 - 09:34

          Standard package.

  • A Banana4scale on 18/07/2011 - 22:31
    +1

    note the garmin map skin not the android one looks like something from windows 95. Absolutely disgusting to say the least.

  • gimme on 18/07/2011 - 22:35

    it doesn't matter, you can install any launcher.
    This is more of a no frills solid performer. If someone's looking for more of a toy with better browsing etc don't waste your time.

    • A Banana4scale on 18/07/2011 - 22:58

      not talking about the android UI, this is the garmin map app UI, it can't be changed since it's the UI of the map app and not related to android

    • IVI on 19/07/2011 - 08:15

      Does Opera come in an Android version?

      Also, it there a -good- PDF reader for Android (ie, one that shows photos & images of PDF eBooks clearly)?

      • billy_bob on 19/07/2011 - 11:39

        Yes you can get Opera Mobile and Opera Mini on Android, I use Opera Mini to reduce data usage (uses only one tenth the data compared to normal browser).
        There are many PDF readers on Android e.g. Aldiko, RepliGo, ezPDF, see this Android forum thread:
        http://androidforums.com/android-applications/10093-best-pdf…

        • Dark Zeus on 21/07/2011 - 20:38

          Just installed Opera - Mini… mad!!

  • [Deactivated] on 18/07/2011 - 22:59

    Gps is good but address search big fail. Couldn't find 3 out of 5 addresses i looked up. Ended up using google maps instead.

    • sharky_k on 19/07/2011 - 00:04

      you can use the google navigation app to search for addresses, but set the the navigation to be handled by the garmin software by default. This is how I do it and it nearly always finds addresses quickly even with incomplete info.

  • savit on 19/07/2011 - 01:10

    How long will the battery last with one charge using GPS 2 hours per day?

    • Lukian on 19/07/2011 - 01:26

      3 days max. Closer to two. You'll likely have the brightness all the way up. No cigarette lighter socket?

  • ClintonL on 19/07/2011 - 01:30

    We are unable to process your order online as we require some further details from you. Please call 1300 308 730 to place your order.

    Ideas why i'm getting that? If in doubt anyway to order one so that you can pick up/pay for etc one instore?

    Cheers

  • IVI on 19/07/2011 - 08:08

    Reviews:

    A young, Asian woman offers the most comprehensive review we've seen:

    . BeginningWithAriel.blogspot.com/2011/01/garmin-asus-a50-review.html

    Each of the next 2 suggest it's Android 1.6 !?!:

    www.pcworld.idg.com.au/review/mobile_phones/garmin-asus/a50/…

    http://reviews.cnet.com/8301-13970_7-10454892-78.html

    There are some YouTube videos on the A50:

    . http://www.google.com.au/url?sa=t&source=web&cd=7&ved=0CEUQt…

  • foxpro on 19/07/2011 - 09:32
    +2

    I own and love this phone since 9 months and have now ordered another one before it runs out.
    The GPS is great. Used it for car navigation in OZ, US and Europe, HK. Flawless. Combined with topo maps it is also great for bushwalking/4WD. Car mount is included in the box.

    The phone takes 32GB SD cards w/o problems. The manual only states up to 16GB. Combined with a nice Android music player it seconds as an Ipod as well.

    The included WiFi is nice for at home browsing.

    Android 2.1 is already on it now. And even if it would come with 1.6 (like mine did 9 months ago) here is the update to 2.1: http://www.garminasus.com/en_AU/support/nuvifone-a50-softwar…

    • m2000 on 19/07/2011 - 10:15

      what's maps or app did you use for overseas ones?

    • Bargain-er on 19/07/2011 - 10:29

      You don't need mobile data (GPRS) to use the Garmin GPS/navigation yea?

      • m2000 on 19/07/2011 - 10:32

        That right! no data used.

    • BlueJay87 on 19/07/2011 - 18:23

      I'll buy your old one if you're willing to do a deal

  • teyc on 19/07/2011 - 10:26

    How much does Optus charge to unlock the phone?

    • m2000 on 19/07/2011 - 10:29
      +1

      FREE: recharge more than $80 OR need to stay with them for 6 mths
      BUT that was for the prepaid. This one is under contract so don't think worth unlocking til end of contract

    • netsurfer on 19/07/2011 - 10:51

      Postpaid phones generally are unlocked.

      First few batches of prepaid ones were also unlocked (they had Android 1.6 - but upgradable to Android 2.1). Later prepaid batches have Android 2.1 and it appears Optus locked those.

  • Bargain-er on 19/07/2011 - 10:50

    $70 call credit can't be used for International calls and optus customer service call?

    The $19 Optus Cap Plan includes $70 of standard national voice calls, standard national SMS and MMS, International SMS, standard national video calls, VoiceMail, national diversions and calls to 13/1300 and 1800 numbers.

    The Included Value excludes 124 YES (937), International Voice including calls to fixed lines or GSM mobiles that switch/divert or re-route overseas, International Diversions, International Video, International Roaming, International MMS, International Video Calling, Optus Zoo Browsing, Optus Zoo Downloads, Content Packs (unless specified in promotions), Mobile Internet usage, TrueLocal usage, Directory Assistance, Surepage, Premium Calls, Premium SMS and MMS, VOIP services and usage, and 19XX services.

    So we need to pay to call customer service?

  • Bargain-er on 19/07/2011 - 10:59

    sorry 124 YES is directory assistance… Is there any optus to optus free calls (not in the same account, there's 5 mins free calls for mobile in the same account).

  • abacus on 19/07/2011 - 11:13

    I was looking at a few of the videos on youtube, and quite often the presenters had to push the screen icons a couple of times as they were not responding.

    • supersabroso on 19/07/2011 - 18:40

      It's a capacitive touch screen, ultra sensitive but operates on the manipulation of electrostatic fields only. This means you will have to use enough of your finger for it to register. Hitting it hard and fast with your finger nail isn't going to do anything. Otherwise the softest tap will do it.

      This is only relevant when you have it in the car stand on your windscreen. The angle you are touching the screen from is not ideal if using your index finger, so you have to make sure you have enough of your fingertip on it.

  • ugoagogo on 19/07/2011 - 16:37

    Looks like I found the phone to replace my Nokia 6110 Navigator…..I had no idea this phone even existed….

    So like the Nokia does this phone have a standalone GPS even with no sim card?

    • supersabroso on 19/07/2011 - 18:34

      You will have to have a wireless connection to the internet every week or so though. It downloads a small file around 100kb. I'm not sure about the purpose of this file but I'm assuming that it verifies you have legitimate access to Garmin's network.

      Otherwise it may take you over 30mins to get a lock as opposed to the usual 2 seconds.

  • navegante88 on 19/07/2011 - 17:10
    +1

    12 months is definitely a bargain!
    I own one of these phones, I bought it for $200 outright.
    Lifetime updates definitely makes it worth it.

    The GPS itself is quite difficult to use, if you have never used it before. Screen is often too sensitive and while you are using your GPS you might accidentally press the screen which gives you a zoomed out version of the map. Once you get the hang of the phone, it is actually quite good ( a little slow if you have too many apps).

    Nevertheless it's definitley worth it for 12 months, + it includes calls and data.

    If this deal existed at the same time with the $200 outright one, I would've taken it.

    If you are looking for a top of the range phone, that can run thousands of apps no problem, this phone definitely is not the one to choose.

  • supersabroso on 19/07/2011 - 18:32
    +1

    I've owned one for 6 months. I have to say it is amazing. Can't recommend this phone enough.

    If you're not going to be using a lot of credit, this is a great deal.

    • fchis on 19/07/2011 - 22:59

      I've owned the phone for 6 months as well. Very solid build quality phone for $199! You can't possiblely find one with that price given the quality.

  • anjaandil on 19/07/2011 - 19:37

    Hi.Guys… I got this phone for $199 on prepaid.. It is unlocked from the day 1. I have tried telstr, vodafone, 3 lebara, lyca, goto it works..I use this as gps..

    the good is .. its a nice gps, map updates are free, and its unlocked(prepaid version) not sure abt post paid.
    io
    bad, is the battery doesn't last long.. I have to put in charge every night, There is no audio warning of speed camera alerts/over speeding. (there is visual alerts but u can keep seeing it while driving). some times it is so annoying when the gps is on the windscreen cradle and not responding..I couldn't remove the optus logo and other apps installed by default. I don't think there is any support for this phone.

    • supersabroso on 19/07/2011 - 20:02

      Use your thumb, perfect response if you do. Also you can easily root your phone to get rid of the optus logo and default Optus apps such as the Optus music store/app store.

      However I wouldn't root until after the warranty expires since apparently it voids it. You can call up support for free from 8am - 5pm. Also since it's an android phone, the only support you really need is google.

  • dexxl on 19/07/2011 - 21:06

    do you have to pay to use the GPS?

    • [Deactivated] on 19/07/2011 - 21:53

      No. GPS can be used as a self-contained unit, and can be used without the sim card if needed. You get free map updates as well when you register on the site.

  • Bargain-er on 19/07/2011 - 21:10

    I just realized:

    If you exceed your plan's included monthly data allowance, excess usage charges will be charged at $0.50 per MB or part thereof. Data usage will be counted in kilobytes, where 1024KB = 1MB and includes both uploads and downloads. Repeat: both uploads and downloads.

    Anyone knows how do they calculate the post paid data usage? With prepaid they calculate min 10MB block if I'm not mistaken.

    • [Deactivated] on 19/07/2011 - 22:10

      Data usage will be counted in kilobytes, where 1024KB = 1MB and includes both uploads and downloads.
      Doesn't that sort of answer your own question?

      • Bargain-er on 19/07/2011 - 22:56

        Oh, i thought that for excess usage only, and may be different with data cap. I think virgin's data cap and excess rules are different from the top of my head. Thanks.

  • janf on 20/07/2011 - 01:07

    Can I get New Zealand map loaded on this phone/GPS for free?

  • janf on 20/07/2011 - 11:00

    I can confirm that you have to pay extra for the New Zealand map. The price is almost the same as the phone.

  • BlueMM on 20/07/2011 - 13:16

    Anyone have experience with tethering this phone (for internet on a laptop etc.) & buying extra data on the $19 plan? Like the $19x12 months but would like more data when away on holidays.

    • freddofrog42 on 20/07/2011 - 14:02

      Technically works ok. I use a USB cable and a Netbook frequently on my commute to Sydney from the Blue Mtns. Can't comment on Optus cost/plans though as I use TPG which works fine for me.

      I also experimented with the Barnacle App, which turns your phone into a peer to peer WiFi access point app. It worked but was not stable so I reverted to the USB lead. There may be better apps out there of course…….?

      FF

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