Singtel-Optus have responded to the latest data from the Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman, saying that the increase in complaints about the telco were directly related to the launch of Apple’s iPhone 6.
The TIO’s report notes 3699 customer complaints about Optus in the last three months of 2014, an increase of 11.7 percent on the same period in 2013. In contrast, complaints about Telstra rose by 0.7 percent, while complaints about Vodafone Hutchison Australia fell by 44.7 percent. Overall complaints were down 11.4 percent.
Related: Optus Announce Netflix Subscription Deal
In a statement to Fairfax Media, Optus said that the marked increase in complaints was due largely to the launch of the iPhone 6 in October, with Optus suffering serious delays in delivery of the new handsets.
“This was mainly due to supply issues, operational challenges and contract disputes related to the launch of iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus,” a spokesperson said. “We’re disappointed in the results for this quarter and are working hard to ensure our customers have a positive experience with Optus.”
Despite the increase in complaints about Optus, the TIA received 26,632 new complaints overall, its lowest figure since September 2007.
