Telstra Announces Carrier Billing for Google Play Store

Owners of Android-based devices on the network of Australian wireless carrier Telstra can now take advantage of a new payment option when making purchases through the Google Play Store, namely carrier billing.

The new option provides users with the possibility to purchase the apps and games they want from the portal and have them charged to their monthly bill at the wireless carrier.

Telstra also explains that all Google Play purchases of up to $20 per transaction can be added to the customers’ monthly bill, and that pre-paid users can also use their Pre-Paid credit to make purchases.

“With Australia’s app appetite growing daily, our customers told us they wanted more ways to pay for their favorite news apps, versus just by credit card,” Telstra notes in a blog post.

“We listened to your feedback and from today, Telstra customers with Android smartphones will be able to enjoy the convenience of charging the latest apps, games, movies and books all to their monthly Telstra mobile bill.”

Additionally, the wireless carrier announced a new promotion meant to celebrate the availability of the new payment option for its users.

In partnership with Google, the carrier made a series of popular Android applications available for its users at half their original price.

The promotion will run for two weeks (until December 18) and includes titles such as HD Widgets, Swiftkey 3, Soundhound Infinity, Paper Camera, Smart Tools, Endomondo Pro, Ocean HD, Mini Motor Racing, World of Goo, Sketchbook Mobile, and Star Chart.

To take advantage of the new billing option, customers will simply have to go to the Google Play Store, choose the app or game they would like to purchase, click “Accept and Buy,” and then select “Bill my Telstra account.” As soon as they click on “Accept and Buy” once again, the transaction is completed.

Post-Paid customers will be able to make purchases of up to $100 from the portal, regardless of whether they acquire apps or content. To adjust this limit, users need to call Telstra on 125 111.