Telstra Smart Payphone - Revision history

CrimsonWolf at 11:43, 4 June 2026

2026-06-04T11:43:01Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 11:43, 4 June 2026
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	[[File:Majestic.jpg\|thumb\|Telstra Smart Payphone]]		[[File:Majestic.jpg\|thumb\|Telstra Smart Payphone]]
	The '''Telstra Smart Payphone''' is the current standard public telephone used by [[Telstra]] in Australia. It replaced earlier ~~Telecom Australia and Telstra public~~ payphone ~~types~~ and is the ~~model most commonly~~ encountered ~~by Payphonetag players~~.		The '''Telstra Smart Payphone''' is the current standard public telephone used by [[Telstra]] in Australia. It has now fully replaced earlier payphone models and as such is the only type encountered while playing Payphone Tag.

	Telstra describes the Smart Payphone as its latest public payphone. Published features include SMS sending to Australian mobiles, a large back-lit display showing the number dialled and remaining credit, visual or audible low-credit and end-of-call warnings, a hearing-aid coupler, four-step volume control, and redial.<ref name="telstra-smart">''Telstra Smart Payphone'', Telstra Consumer Advice, [https://www.telstra.com.au/consumer-advice/payphones/smart-payphone](https://www.telstra.com.au/consumer-advice/payphones/smart-payphone). Accessed 3 May 2026.</ref>		Telstra describes the Smart Payphone as its latest public payphone. Published features include SMS sending to Australian mobiles, a large back-lit display showing the number dialled and remaining credit, visual or audible low-credit and end-of-call warnings, a hearing-aid coupler, four-step volume control, and redial.<ref name="telstra-smart">''Telstra Smart Payphone'', Telstra Consumer Advice, [https://www.telstra.com.au/consumer-advice/payphones/smart-payphone](https://www.telstra.com.au/consumer-advice/payphones/smart-payphone). Accessed 3 May 2026.</ref>
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	When not in use, the phone is in the standby state. The screen will display a pre-programmed message, usually "FREE NATIONAL CALLS AUSTRALIA IS WHY".[[File:Payphone boot.jpg\|thumb\|The boot screen of the [[Telstra Smart Payphone]]]]When picking up the handset of the payphone, the phone will show a boot screen.		When not in use, the phone is in the standby state. The screen will display a pre-programmed message, usually "FREE NATIONAL CALLS AUSTRALIA IS WHY".[[File:Payphone boot.jpg\|thumb\|The boot screen of the [[Telstra Smart Payphone]]]]When picking up the handset of the payphone, the phone will show a boot screen.

	Shortly after, you will reach the main screen. Here you can enter the phone number to call, or press OK to enter a menu for other functions.		Shortly after, you will reach the main screen. Payment should be made at this point if required for the call, by inserting a phonecard (coins were also accepted in the past). Here you can enter the phone number to call, or press OK to enter a menu for other functions.

	After about 60 seconds of inactivity, the phone will return to the standby state, even if the handset is not replaced.		After about 60 seconds of inactivity, the phone will return to the standby state, even if the handset is not replaced.
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	=== Outbound Calls ===		=== Outbound Calls ===
	From the main screen, dial the number to call with the keypad. The phone will immediately show an error message if you dial a prefix that it cannot call, such as 05 (an unallocated range for mobile numbers) or 19 (premium rate numbers).		From the main screen, dial the number to call with the keypad. The phone will immediately show an error message if you dial a prefix that it cannot call, such as 05 (an unallocated range for mobile numbers) or 19 (premium rate numbers).

	~~If payment is required, a phonecard can be inserted at any time before or after dialling. In the past coins could also be inserted.~~

	Once you have finished dialling and making any required payment, the phone will attempt to place the call after a few seconds. The screen will show "FREE CALL" once this has occurred.		Once you have finished dialling and making any required payment, the phone will attempt to place the call after a few seconds. The screen will show "FREE CALL" once this has occurred.
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	=== Inbound calls ===		=== Inbound calls ===

	Almost all Telstra Smart Payphones can receive incoming calls. The payphone will usually ring and can be answered by lifting the handset. ~~However at~~ sensitive locations, the ~~phone~~ may ~~display~~ '''SERVICE NOT AVAILABLE - HANG UP''' rather than connecting the incoming call.		Almost all Telstra Smart Payphones can receive incoming calls. The payphone will usually ring and can be answered by lifting the handset. Some phones may not ring but only display '''INCOMING CALL''' on the screen. At more sensitive locations, the call may not be able to be answered at all, the screen will change to '''SERVICE NOT AVAILABLE - HANG UP''' rather than connecting the incoming call.

	=== SMS ===		=== SMS ===
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	In August 2021 Telstra made local calls, national calls to standard fixed-line numbers and calls to standard Australian mobiles free from public payphones.<ref name="telstra-freecalls">''Why we’re making payphones free for calls around Australia'', Telstra Exchange, 29 September 2022, [https://www.telstra.com.au/exchange/payphones-free-for-calls-australia](https://www.telstra.com.au/exchange/payphones-free-for-calls-australia). Accessed 3 May 2026.</ref> Coin acceptance ended from 8 October 2021.<ref name="telstra-payphones" />		In August 2021 Telstra made local calls, national calls to standard fixed-line numbers and calls to standard Australian mobiles free from public payphones.<ref name="telstra-freecalls">''Why we’re making payphones free for calls around Australia'', Telstra Exchange, 29 September 2022, [https://www.telstra.com.au/exchange/payphones-free-for-calls-australia](https://www.telstra.com.au/exchange/payphones-free-for-calls-australia). Accessed 3 May 2026.</ref> Coin acceptance ended from 8 October 2021.<ref name="telstra-payphones" />

	With the rollout of the NBN and the progressive decommissioning of copper-based POTS services, many Smart Payphones in metropolitan areas have been converted to use Telstra's cellular network rather than a traditional copper telephone line. In the field, these can often be identified by the telephone number shown on the payphone's <nowiki>[[cabinet]]</nowiki> label: cellular-connected payphones commonly have numbers beginning with '''04''' rather than a fixed-line area code.		== Connectivity ==
			Telstra payphones were initially connected to the network via copper cables (POTS - plain old telephone service). Later on, ADSL (asymmetric digital subscriber line) was added to provide SMS and eventually Wi-Fi services. With the ongoing rollout of the NBN, copper is being phased out and so gradually many phones have been migrated to connect over the LTE (4G) cellular network. In rare cases, phones have instead been connected to the NBN fibre network.
	From 2022, Telstra began converting enabled payphones into [[Telstra Air\|free Wi-Fi hotspots]]. Telstra stated that free Wi-Fi became available at selected enabled payphones from 25 August 2022, and that around 3,000 Wi-Fi-enabled payphones had been upgraded by 2023.<ref name="telstra-wifi">''Free Wi-Fi is now available to anyone across selected Telstra payphones'', Telstra Exchange, 7 November 2023, [https://www.telstra.com.au/exchange/free-wi-fi-is-now-available-to-anyone-across-selected-telstra-pa](https://www.telstra.com.au/exchange/free-wi-fi-is-now-available-to-anyone-across-selected-telstra-pa). Accessed 3 May 2026.</ref>

	~~== Variants ==~~

	~~=== Phonecard-only Smart Payphone ===~~

	A less common version is the '''Phonecard-only''' or card-only Smart Payphone. These units do not have a usable coin mechanism and rely on the Telstra Phonecard or a compatible calling card for charged destinations.

	~~=== Coin and Phonecard Smart Payphone ===~~

	The most common Smart Payphone variant still encountered in the field is the '''coin and phonecard''' model. These units were originally fitted with both a coin mechanism and a Telstra Phonecard slot. Collector sources state that coin-capable units accepted Australian 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, $1 and $2 coins.<ref name="payphonestory-ct10" />

	Most of these phones retain their coin mechanisms, and only have coin acceptance disabled via a software update. A small number have had the coin slot covered with a plate that read CARD ONLY. Some have also had the change slot replaced with a USB charger.
	~~[[File:Payphone-02974020X2-20260524105708.jpg\|thumb\|A vandal resistant payphone]]~~

	=== ~~Vandal-resistant Payphone~~ ===
	There is a vandal-resistant version of the smart payphone that features a thicker casing for vandal resistance. It can be identified by the keys sticking up less from the casing and the missing decal slot above the screen.

	~~=== TTY Smart Payphone ===~~

	~~Some~~ Telstra payphones were ~~modified with a '''[[TTY]]''' (teletypewriter) facility for people who are deaf or have a communication impairment. Telstra states that around 100 payphones have been modified~~ to ~~include a TTY facility. TTY-equipped payphones can be found through Telstra's Payphone Locator by searching for~~ the ~~''Teletypewriter~~ (~~TTY~~)~~'' feature~~.~~<ref name="telstra-tty">''TTY Payphones''~~, ~~Telstra Consumer Advice, [https://www.telstra.com.au/consumer-advice/payphones/tty-payphones]~~(~~https://www.telstra.com.au/consumer~~-~~advice/payphones/tty-payphones)~~. ~~Accessed 3 May 2026.</ref>~~

	~~TTY units are visually distinct and are~~ of ~~particular interest to Payphonetag players. The TTY keyboard used with Telstra payphones~~ is ~~an '''Ultratec Pay Phone TDD''' keyboard. The keyboard slides~~ out ~~when TTY tones are detected over the phone line. Many units appear to have seen little regular use in recent years,~~ so ~~players should not assume that the TTY attachment is working unless tested.~~

	~~TTY payphones that~~ have been ~~converted~~ to ~~use Telstra's~~ 4G/cellular network, ~~usually identifiable by an '''04''' number on the <nowiki>[[cabinet]]</nowiki> label, are currently reported not~~ to ~~work correctly with TTY. Telstra is aware of~~ the ~~issue and has stated that it is working on a solution~~.

	~~=== Wi-Fi-enabled cabinets ===~~		Phones on the LTE network can be identified by their phone number being a mobile number (beginning with 04). Both ADSL and fibre phones have landline numbers.

	~~Some~~ Smart ~~Payphones are installed in [[Cabinet\|cabinets]] or surrounds~~ that ~~also provide free Telstra Wi-Fi. Telstra says users~~ can ~~connect by selecting the ''Free Telstra Wi-Fi'' network and accepting the portal terms.<ref name="telstra-wifi" /> Wi-Fi-enabled sites may have additional branding, antennas or cabinet modifications.~~		== Variations ==
			There are a number of different variations on the standard Smart Payphone that can spotted in field:

	~~Field observations suggest~~ that Telstra ~~Air~~ / ~~Free Telstra Wi~~-Fi-~~enabled~~ payphones ~~often use conventional domestic~~-~~style~~ Telstra ~~Smart Modems installed within the booth~~'~~s roof~~ ''~~hat~~'' ~~or inside~~ a Telstra ~~Air cube enclosure mounted above~~ the ~~booth roof~~.		* '''Coin Mechanism:''' A very small number of payphones were built without a coin mechanism at all and do not have a coin slot at all. Slightly more have a coin slot covered with a metal plate that reads "CARDS ONLY". Both variations have a rectangular outline where the change slot should be. It is likely these pre-date domestic calls being free and were only placed in areas where another coin-accepting phone was nearby.
			* '''Change slot:''' After call acceptance stopped, some payphones had their change slot removed and replaced with a USB charger. One USB-A and one USB-C port is provided, however only one can be used at a time.[[File:Payphone-02974020X2-20260524105708.jpg\|thumb\|A vandal resistant payphone]]
			* '''Vandal resistant casing:''' Some payphones have a thicker casing for vandal resistance. It can be identified by the keys sticking up less from the casing and the missing decal slot above the screen.
			* '''Payphone TTY:''' Around 100 Telstra payphones were retrofitted with a '''[[TTY]]''' (teletypewriter) facility for people who are deaf or have a communication impairment. TTY-equipped payphones can be found through Telstra's Payphone Locator by searching for the ''Teletypewriter (TTY)'' feature.<ref name="telstra-tty">''TTY Payphones'', Telstra Consumer Advice, [https://www.telstra.com.au/consumer-advice/payphones/tty-payphones](https://www.telstra.com.au/consumer-advice/payphones/tty-payphones). Accessed 3 May 2026.</ref> The TTY keyboard used with Telstra payphones is an '''Ultratec Pay Phone TDD''' keyboard. The keyboard slides out when TTY tones are detected over the phone line. Many units appear to have seen little regular use in recent years, so players should not assume that the TTY attachment is working unless tested. Additionally, due to hardware incompatibilities, TTY currently does not work on payphones connected to the LTE network (ie. any phone with a 04 number). Telstra is aware of the issue and has stated they are working on a solution.

	== Charges ==		== Charges ==

CrimsonWolf at 11:10, 24 May 2026

2026-05-24T11:10:25Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 11:10, 24 May 2026
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	=== Phonecard-only Smart Payphone ===		=== Phonecard-only Smart Payphone ===

	A less common version is the '''Phonecard-only''' or card-only Smart Payphone. These units do not have a usable coin mechanism and rely on the Telstra Phonecard or a compatible calling card for charged destinations.~~<ref name="telstra-payphones" />~~		A less common version is the '''Phonecard-only''' or card-only Smart Payphone. These units do not have a usable coin mechanism and rely on the Telstra Phonecard or a compatible calling card for charged destinations.

	=== Coin and Phonecard Smart Payphone ===		=== Coin and Phonecard Smart Payphone ===

	The most common Smart Payphone variant still encountered in the field is the '''coin and ~~Phonecard~~''' model. These units were originally fitted with both a coin mechanism and a Telstra Phonecard slot. Collector sources state that coin-capable units accepted Australian 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, $1 and $2 coins.<ref name="payphonestory-ct10" />		The most common Smart Payphone variant still encountered in the field is the '''coin and phonecard''' model. These units were originally fitted with both a coin mechanism and a Telstra Phonecard slot. Collector sources state that coin-capable units accepted Australian 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, $1 and $2 coins.<ref name="payphonestory-ct10" />

	~~After Telstra made standard Australian national~~ and ~~mobile calls free in 2021,~~ coin acceptance ~~was later~~ disabled ~~across Telstra public payphones~~. ~~Telstra states~~ that ~~payphones stopped accepting coins from 8 October 2021~~.~~<ref name~~=~~"telstra~~-~~payphones" /> As~~ a ~~result, many coin/Phonecard Smart Payphones still physically have~~ a ~~coin slot, coin return~~ and ~~related hardware, but~~ the ~~coin mechanism should be treated as disabled rather than usable. The Phonecard~~ slot ~~may still be usable for charged destinations and Phonecard-specific functions~~.		Most of these phones retain their coin mechanisms, and only have coin acceptance disabled via a software update. A small number have had the coin slot covered with a plate that read CARD ONLY. Some have also had the change slot replaced with a USB charger.
			[[File:Payphone-02974020X2-20260524105708.jpg\|thumb\|A vandal resistant payphone]]

			=== Vandal-resistant Payphone ===
			There is a vandal-resistant version of the smart payphone that features a thicker casing for vandal resistance. It can be identified by the keys sticking up less from the casing and the missing decal slot above the screen.

	=== TTY Smart Payphone ===		=== TTY Smart Payphone ===

CrimsonWolf at 10:54, 24 May 2026

2026-05-24T10:54:16Z

Show changes

CrimsonWolf at 06:52, 24 May 2026

2026-05-24T06:52:30Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 06:52, 24 May 2026
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	== Functionality ==		== Functionality ==
	When picking up the handset of the payphone, the phone will show a boot screen~~. From here, you can place a call, or send a text message. Most coin slots are now covered, but you can still use a phonecard for autodialing or international calling~~.		[[File:Payphone boot.jpg\|thumb\|The boot screen of the [[Telstra Smart Payphone]]]]When picking up the handset of the payphone, the phone will show a boot screen.

	~~-section~~ to ~~be expanded-~~		Shortly after, you will reach the main screen. Here you can enter the phone number to call, or press OK to enter a menu for other functions.
	~~[[File:Payphone boot~~.~~jpg\|thumb\|~~The ~~boot~~ screen of ~~the [[Telstra Smart Payphone]]]]~~
			=== Calling ===
			From the main screen, dial the number to call with the keypad. The phone will immediately show an error message if you dial a prefix that it cannot call, such as 05 (an unallocated range for mobile numbers) or 19 (premium rate numbers).

			Once you have finished dialling, the phone will attempt to place the call after a few seconds. The screen will show "FREE CALL" once this has occurred.

			While the call is connected, you can still dial as on any other phone to respond to interactive voice prompts or menus. These numbers will show on the screen.

			Once the call is concluded, the screen does not change, although you will hear the disconnect tone as normal. You can now replace the handset to put the phone back to standby or press the FOLLOW ON button under the handset to make another call.

			=== SMS ===
			From the OK menu, you can press 1 to write your own message to send or 2 to choose from a list of pre-written messages.

	== History ==		== History ==
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	=== Phonecard-only Smart Payphone ===		=== Phonecard-only Smart Payphone ===

	A less common version is the '''Phonecard-only''' or card-only Smart Payphone. These units do not have a usable coin mechanism and rely on the Telstra Phonecard or a compatible calling card for charged destinations~~. Standard Australian fixed-line and mobile calls are free~~.<ref name="telstra-payphones" />		A less common version is the '''Phonecard-only''' or card-only Smart Payphone. These units do not have a usable coin mechanism and rely on the Telstra Phonecard or a compatible calling card for charged destinations.<ref name="telstra-payphones" />

	=== Coin and Phonecard Smart Payphone ===		=== Coin and Phonecard Smart Payphone ===
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	=== TTY Smart Payphone ===		=== TTY Smart Payphone ===

	Some Telstra payphones were modified with a '''TTY''' or teletypewriter facility for people who are deaf or have a communication impairment. Telstra states that around 100 payphones have been modified to include a TTY facility. TTY-equipped payphones can be found through Telstra's Payphone Locator by searching for the ''Teletypewriter (TTY)'' feature.<ref name="telstra-tty">''TTY Payphones'', Telstra Consumer Advice, [https://www.telstra.com.au/consumer-advice/payphones/tty-payphones](https://www.telstra.com.au/consumer-advice/payphones/tty-payphones). Accessed 3 May 2026.</ref>		Some Telstra payphones were modified with a '''[[TTY]]''' (teletypewriter) facility for people who are deaf or have a communication impairment. Telstra states that around 100 payphones have been modified to include a TTY facility. TTY-equipped payphones can be found through Telstra's Payphone Locator by searching for the ''Teletypewriter (TTY)'' feature.<ref name="telstra-tty">''TTY Payphones'', Telstra Consumer Advice, [https://www.telstra.com.au/consumer-advice/payphones/tty-payphones](https://www.telstra.com.au/consumer-advice/payphones/tty-payphones). Accessed 3 May 2026.</ref>

	TTY units are visually distinct and are of particular interest to Payphonetag players. The TTY keyboard used with Telstra payphones is an '''Ultratec Pay Phone TDD''' keyboard. The keyboard slides out when TTY tones are detected over the phone line. Many units appear to have seen little regular use in recent years, so players should not assume that the TTY attachment is working unless tested.		TTY units are visually distinct and are of particular interest to Payphonetag players. The TTY keyboard used with Telstra payphones is an '''Ultratec Pay Phone TDD''' keyboard. The keyboard slides out when TTY tones are detected over the phone line. Many units appear to have seen little regular use in recent years, so players should not assume that the TTY attachment is working unless tested.
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	=== Wi-Fi-enabled cabinets ===		=== Wi-Fi-enabled cabinets ===

	Some Smart Payphones are installed in ~~<nowiki>~~[[~~cabinet~~]]~~</nowiki>s~~ or surrounds that also provide free Telstra Wi-Fi. Telstra says users can connect by selecting the ''Free Telstra Wi-Fi'' network and accepting the portal terms.<ref name="telstra-wifi" /> Wi-Fi-enabled sites may have additional branding, antennas or ~~<nowiki>[[~~cabinet~~]]</nowiki>~~ modifications.		Some Smart Payphones are installed in [[Cabinet\|cabinets]] or surrounds that also provide free Telstra Wi-Fi. Telstra says users can connect by selecting the ''Free Telstra Wi-Fi'' network and accepting the portal terms.<ref name="telstra-wifi" /> Wi-Fi-enabled sites may have additional branding, antennas or cabinet modifications.

	Field observations suggest that Telstra Air / Free Telstra Wi-Fi-enabled payphones often use conventional domestic-style Telstra Smart Modems installed within the booth's roof ''hat'' or inside a Telstra Air cube enclosure mounted above the booth roof.		Field observations suggest that Telstra Air / Free Telstra Wi-Fi-enabled payphones often use conventional domestic-style Telstra Smart Modems installed within the booth's roof ''hat'' or inside a Telstra Air cube enclosure mounted above the booth roof.

	~~== Telstra Smart Phonecard ==~~		-- Under construction --

	~~The '''Telstra Smart Phonecard''' is the stored~~-~~value contact smartcard used by the Telstra Smart Payphone. The modern Telstra Phonecard is sold as a pre~~-paid card for international, mobile satellite and other chargeable calls from Telstra payphones. Telstra lists current denominations of $5, $10 and $20, sold at selected Telstra Stores and retail outlets.<ref name="telstra-~~phonecard~~-~~page">''Calling cards'', Telstra, [https://www.telstra.com.au/phone-line/calling-cards](https://www.telstra.com.au/phone-line/calling-cards). Accessed 3 May 2026.</ref>~~

	At launch, Telstra distinguished the new Smart Phonecard from the older Telstra Phonecard. A contemporary Telstra newspaper advertisement said the new card used ''Smart chip technology'' and was identified by a red arrow. The advertisement stated that Smart Phonecards would only operate in new Telstra Public Payphones displaying the same red arrow, while older green-arrow Phonecards would only operate in older Telstra payphones.<ref name="smh-smart" />

	~~=== Technical details ===~~

	The Telstra Smart Phonecard is not a PIN card and is not a general-purpose processor smartcard in the same sense as a SIM card or banking card. It is a synchronous contact memory/counter card. Telstra's current Phonecard information states that no PIN or access number is required, and that the card is used simply by inserting it into a Telstra payphone and dialling.<ref name="telstra-phonecard-page" />

	The chip used in the Telstra Smart Phonecard has been identified by hobbyist and collector testing as the '''Siemens/Infineon SLE 4436''' family. The SLE 4436/36E was specifically designed for prepaid telephone-card applications. Manufacturer information describes it as containing 221 bits of EEPROM memory, 16 bits of ROM, a control/security unit, and a computing unit for chip authentication.<ref name="sle4436">''SLE 4436/36E Short Product Information'', Infineon Technologies, [https://cardplus.ru/wp-content/themes/new_templete/files/sle4436.pdf](https://cardplus.ru/wp-content/themes/new_templete/files/sle4436.pdf). Accessed 3 May 2026.</ref>

	The SLE 4436 memory layout includes a counter, identification data such as serial number and expiry date, and data areas.<ref name="sle4436" /> This fits the practical behaviour of a Telstra Smart Phonecard: the payphone can read the card identity and remaining value, decrement the stored credit during chargeable calls, and also store small user-programmed data such as an autodial number.

	This one-way memory behaviour also explains why the Telstra Smart Payphone warns that an autodial number can only be programmed into a Phonecard once. Programming the autodial field consumes the relevant writable bits on the card. Because the card cannot erase those bits back to their original state, the payphone cannot safely offer repeated attempts or later edits in the way a normal rewritable memory card could.

	The card's value storage should be understood as a one-way electronic counter rather than a rewritable balance field. In normal card operation, memory is not erased before writing, so bits can only be programmed from binary '''1''' to binary '''0'''.<ref name="acr38-sle4436">''ACR38x Smart Card Reader Reference Manual'', ACS, section on SLE 4406/SLE 4436/SLE 5536/SLE 6636 memory cards, [https://www.cardlogix.com/wp-content/uploads/ACS-ACR38x-Smart-Card-Reader-Reference-Sheet_6.03.pdf](https://www.cardlogix.com/wp-content/uploads/ACS-ACR38x-Smart-Card-Reader-Reference-Sheet_6.03.pdf). Accessed 3 May 2026.</ref> In practical terms, once a counter bit or value stage has been consumed, ordinary payphone operations cannot turn it back into unused credit. This is more technically accurate than saying the chip is literally ''blown like a fuse'', but the effect is similar: the card is designed for controlled devaluation, not recharging or reuse.

	The SLE 4436 also supports write modes intended for telephone-card counter operation, including ''write with carry'' and backup-protected write modes.<ref name="acr38-sle4436" /> The backup mechanism is intended to reduce value corruption if the card is removed during a counter update. Manufacturer information also describes a challenge-response authentication unit, used so the terminal can verify that the card is genuine rather than a simple unprotected memory device.<ref name="sle4436" />

	Telstra's Phonecard terms state that the card's stored value cannot be increased and that the card ends when the stored value reaches zero or when the end date shown on the card is reached.<ref name="phonecard-terms">''Telstra Phonecard: Things you need to know'', Telstra, [https://www.telstra.com.au/content/dam/tcom/personal/home-phone/pdf/phonecard-terms.pdf](https://www.telstra.com.au/content/dam/tcom/personal/home-phone/pdf/phonecard-terms.pdf). Accessed 3 May 2026.</ref> This matches the one-way counter design: a spent Smart Phonecard is not normally reset or topped up.

	~~=== Expiry-date field note ===~~

	Telstra's Phonecard terms state that Phonecards end on the date shown on the back of the card or when the stored value reaches zero, and that Telstra does not promise that a card will work after its end date.<ref name="phonecard-terms" />

	Payphonetag players have observed that some recently issued Phonecards with a 2025 expiry date continue to function after the printed expiry date. Telstra Shop staff at Telstra's flagship Sydney store in Pitt Street Mall have also reportedly advised purchasers that these cards will continue to work after expiry. This should be treated as staff advice and field observation only, not a formal Telstra guarantee.

	Anyone buying an expired or near-expired Phonecard should ask for a receipt and test the card as soon as practical after purchase. If the card does not work, the receipt will be useful when returning to the store or seeking assistance.

	=== Contact oxidation ===		=== Contact oxidation ===

	Because Phonecard slots have seen little use for many years, the contacts in the reader may be dirty or oxidised. If a known-good Phonecard is not read immediately, gently insert and remove the card several times. Do not force the card, insert foreign objects, spray cleaners into the slot, or damage the phone.		Because Phonecard slots have seen little use for many years, the contacts in the reader may be dirty or oxidised. If a known-good Phonecard is not read immediately, gently insert and remove the card several times. Do not force the card, insert foreign objects, spray cleaners into the slot, or damage the phone.

	Telstra also promoted the Smart Phonecard as a possible stored-value payment system beyond payphones, stating that Smart Phonecards would soon be accepted in vending machines for snacks and drinks.<ref name="smh-smart" /> The extent of any later vending-machine rollout is unclear.

	== Call charges and tariffs ==		== Call charges and tariffs ==
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	The mobile phone volume must be adjusted carefully. If it is too loud, the tones may distort and fail to decode; if it is too quiet, the payphone microphone may not pick them up reliably. Hold the mobile phone speaker near the payphone mouthpiece and listen through the payphone earpiece while adjusting the volume to find the cleanest level.		The mobile phone volume must be adjusted carefully. If it is too loud, the tones may distort and fail to decode; if it is too quiet, the payphone microphone may not pick them up reliably. Hold the mobile phone speaker near the payphone mouthpiece and listen through the payphone earpiece while adjusting the volume to find the cleanest level.

	~~== Finding a Telstra Phonecard ==~~
	~~Check the guide in [[Phonecard]].~~

	=== Testing the Phonecard slot ===		=== Testing the Phonecard slot ===

	A working Phonecard should cause the payphone to display the remaining stored value when inserted.<ref name="phonecard-terms" /> If it does not:		A working Phonecard should cause the payphone to display the remaining stored value when inserted.<ref name="phonecard-terms">''Telstra Phonecard: Things you need to know'', Telstra, [https://www.telstra.com.au/content/dam/tcom/personal/home-phone/pdf/phonecard-terms.pdf](https://www.telstra.com.au/content/dam/tcom/personal/home-phone/pdf/phonecard-terms.pdf). Accessed 3 May 2026.</ref> If it does not:

	* check that the card is inserted the correct way around;		* check that the card is inserted the correct way around;

AstralWren: /* Functionality */

2026-05-14T01:21:25Z

Functionality

← Older revision		Revision as of 01:21, 14 May 2026
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	== Functionality ==		== Functionality ==
	When picking up the handset of the payphone, the phone will show a boot screen.		When picking up the handset of the payphone, the phone will show a boot screen. From here, you can place a call, or send a text message. Most coin slots are now covered, but you can still use a phonecard for autodialing or international calling.

	-section to be expanded-		-section to be expanded-

Kevin: added functionalty section

2026-05-05T11:07:35Z

added functionalty section

← Older revision		Revision as of 11:07, 5 May 2026
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	Although still generally called a ''payphone'', ordinary domestic use of Telstra public phones is now free. Telstra states that standard national and mobile calls are free from all Telstra payphones, and that from 8 October 2021 payphones stopped accepting coins. Calls to international and other charged destinations require a Telstra Phonecard or other third-party calling card.<ref name="telstra-payphones">''Payphone services'', Telstra Consumer Advice, [https://www.telstra.com.au/consumer-advice/payphones](https://www.telstra.com.au/consumer-advice/payphones). Accessed 3 May 2026.</ref>		Although still generally called a ''payphone'', ordinary domestic use of Telstra public phones is now free. Telstra states that standard national and mobile calls are free from all Telstra payphones, and that from 8 October 2021 payphones stopped accepting coins. Calls to international and other charged destinations require a Telstra Phonecard or other third-party calling card.<ref name="telstra-payphones">''Payphone services'', Telstra Consumer Advice, [https://www.telstra.com.au/consumer-advice/payphones](https://www.telstra.com.au/consumer-advice/payphones). Accessed 3 May 2026.</ref>

			== Functionality ==
			When picking up the handset of the payphone, the phone will show a boot screen.

			-section to be expanded-
			[[File:Payphone boot.jpg\|thumb\|The boot screen of the [[Telstra Smart Payphone]]]]

	== History ==		== History ==

Kevin: added image

2026-05-05T10:45:16Z

added image

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	~~{{Infobox payphone~~		[[File:Majestic.jpg\|thumb\|Telstra Smart Payphone]]
	~~\| name = Telstra Smart Payphone~~
	\| ~~image = <!-- Add image -->~~
	\| ~~caption = A~~ Telstra Smart Payphone ~~in service~~
	~~\| manufacturer = Infopyme / Amper / Siemens-Elasa platform family; maintained by Telstra~~
	~~\| operator = Telstra~~
	~~\| country = Australia~~
	~~\| introduced = c. 1997~~
	~~\| payment = Free standard Australian calls; Telstra Phonecard or calling card for charged destinations~~
	~~\| variants = Phonecard-only, coin/Phonecard, TTY, Wi-Fi-enabled cabinets~~
	}}

	The '''Telstra Smart Payphone''' is the current standard public telephone used by [[Telstra]] in Australia. It replaced earlier Telecom Australia and Telstra public payphone types and is the model most commonly encountered by Payphonetag players.		The '''Telstra Smart Payphone''' is the current standard public telephone used by [[Telstra]] in Australia. It replaced earlier Telecom Australia and Telstra public payphone types and is the model most commonly encountered by Payphonetag players.

Kevin: move to phonecard

2026-05-04T23:54:35Z

move to phonecard

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	The mobile phone volume must be adjusted carefully. If it is too loud, the tones may distort and fail to decode; if it is too quiet, the payphone microphone may not pick them up reliably. Hold the mobile phone speaker near the payphone mouthpiece and listen through the payphone earpiece while adjusting the volume to find the cleanest level.		The mobile phone volume must be adjusted carefully. If it is too loud, the tones may distort and fail to decode; if it is too quiet, the payphone microphone may not pick them up reliably. Hold the mobile phone speaker near the payphone mouthpiece and listen through the payphone earpiece while adjusting the volume to find the cleanest level.

	=== Finding a Telstra Phonecard ===		== Finding a Telstra Phonecard ==
			Check the guide in [[Phonecard]].
	~~Telstra Shop staff may not know what a Telstra~~ Phonecard is, especially because they are now rarely requested. When asking for one, avoid only saying ''calling card'', as staff may think of mobile recharge vouchers, international PIN cards or discontinued products.

	~~Useful wording:~~

	~~<blockquote>~~
	I’m after a '''Telstra Phonecard calling card''' for use in Telstra payphones. Telstra’s website lists it under '''Calling cards''' and says it is available in '''$5, $10 and $20''' denominations at selected Telstra Stores and retail outlets.
	~~</blockquote>~~

	It may help to show staff Telstra's ''Calling cards'' page, which states that Telstra Phonecards are used for international, mobile satellite and other chargeable calls from Telstra payphones.<ref name="telstra-phonecard-page" /> Ask whether the store can check old stock, the accessories drawer, or internal product listings.

	=== Testing the Phonecard slot ===		=== Testing the Phonecard slot ===

Kevin: /* Reporting faults */

2026-05-04T23:52:42Z

Reporting faults

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	=== Reporting faults ===		=== Reporting faults ===

	The official Telstra payphone fault line is '''180 22 44'''. Telstra states that this is a free call from Telstra payphones and operates 24/7. Useful details include the location, the payphone number or ~~<nowiki>~~[[cabinet]]~~</nowiki>~~ ID, a description of the fault, and details of any physical damage.<ref name="telstra-faults">''Reporting faults'', Telstra Consumer Advice, [https://www.telstra.com.au/consumer-advice/payphones/reporting-faults](https://www.telstra.com.au/consumer-advice/payphones/reporting-faults). Accessed 3 May 2026.</ref>		The official Telstra payphone fault line is '''180 22 44'''. Telstra states that this is a free call from Telstra payphones and operates 24/7. Useful details include the location, the payphone number or [[cabinet]] ID, a description of the fault, and details of any physical damage.<ref name="telstra-faults">''Reporting faults'', Telstra Consumer Advice, [https://www.telstra.com.au/consumer-advice/payphones/reporting-faults](https://www.telstra.com.au/consumer-advice/payphones/reporting-faults). Accessed 3 May 2026.</ref>

	In practice, Payphonetag players have found that the quickest way to submit ordinary non-urgent fault reports is usually '''Snap Send Solve'''. Telstra's damaged-equipment page directs non-urgent damage reports through Snap Send Solve, and Snap Send Solve says it can send Telstra equipment reports directly to Telstra.<ref name="telstra-damage">''Report damages to Telstra equipment'', Telstra Consumer Advice, [https://www.telstra.com.au/consumer-advice/digging-construction/report-damages](https://www.telstra.com.au/consumer-advice/digging-construction/report-damages). Accessed 3 May 2026.</ref><ref name="snap-telstra">''Report Damaged Telstra Equipment'', Snap Send Solve, 15 April 2026, [https://www.snapsendsolve.com/report/damaged-telstra-equipment](https://www.snapsendsolve.com/report/damaged-telstra-equipment). Accessed 3 May 2026.</ref>		In practice, Payphonetag players have found that the quickest way to submit ordinary non-urgent fault reports is usually '''Snap Send Solve'''. Telstra's damaged-equipment page directs non-urgent damage reports through Snap Send Solve, and Snap Send Solve says it can send Telstra equipment reports directly to Telstra.<ref name="telstra-damage">''Report damages to Telstra equipment'', Telstra Consumer Advice, [https://www.telstra.com.au/consumer-advice/digging-construction/report-damages](https://www.telstra.com.au/consumer-advice/digging-construction/report-damages). Accessed 3 May 2026.</ref><ref name="snap-telstra">''Report Damaged Telstra Equipment'', Snap Send Solve, 15 April 2026, [https://www.snapsendsolve.com/report/damaged-telstra-equipment](https://www.snapsendsolve.com/report/damaged-telstra-equipment). Accessed 3 May 2026.</ref>

Kevin: Added links to cabinet page

2026-05-04T04:21:54Z

Added links to cabinet page

← Older revision		Revision as of 04:21, 4 May 2026
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	In August 2021 Telstra made local calls, national calls to standard fixed-line numbers and calls to standard Australian mobiles free from public payphones.<ref name="telstra-freecalls">''Why we’re making payphones free for calls around Australia'', Telstra Exchange, 29 September 2022, [https://www.telstra.com.au/exchange/payphones-free-for-calls-australia](https://www.telstra.com.au/exchange/payphones-free-for-calls-australia). Accessed 3 May 2026.</ref> Coin acceptance ended from 8 October 2021.<ref name="telstra-payphones" />		In August 2021 Telstra made local calls, national calls to standard fixed-line numbers and calls to standard Australian mobiles free from public payphones.<ref name="telstra-freecalls">''Why we’re making payphones free for calls around Australia'', Telstra Exchange, 29 September 2022, [https://www.telstra.com.au/exchange/payphones-free-for-calls-australia](https://www.telstra.com.au/exchange/payphones-free-for-calls-australia). Accessed 3 May 2026.</ref> Coin acceptance ended from 8 October 2021.<ref name="telstra-payphones" />

	With the rollout of the NBN and the progressive decommissioning of copper-based POTS services, many Smart Payphones in metropolitan areas have been converted to use Telstra's cellular network rather than a traditional copper telephone line. In the field, these can often be identified by the telephone number shown on the payphone's cabinet label: cellular-connected payphones commonly have numbers beginning with '''04''' rather than a fixed-line area code.		With the rollout of the NBN and the progressive decommissioning of copper-based POTS services, many Smart Payphones in metropolitan areas have been converted to use Telstra's cellular network rather than a traditional copper telephone line. In the field, these can often be identified by the telephone number shown on the payphone's <nowiki>[[cabinet]]</nowiki> label: cellular-connected payphones commonly have numbers beginning with '''04''' rather than a fixed-line area code.

	From 2022, Telstra began converting enabled payphones into free Wi-Fi hotspots. Telstra stated that free Wi-Fi became available at selected enabled payphones from 25 August 2022, and that around 3,000 Wi-Fi-enabled payphones had been upgraded by 2023.<ref name="telstra-wifi">''Free Wi-Fi is now available to anyone across selected Telstra payphones'', Telstra Exchange, 7 November 2023, [https://www.telstra.com.au/exchange/free-wi-fi-is-now-available-to-anyone-across-selected-telstra-pa](https://www.telstra.com.au/exchange/free-wi-fi-is-now-available-to-anyone-across-selected-telstra-pa). Accessed 3 May 2026.</ref>		From 2022, Telstra began converting enabled payphones into free Wi-Fi hotspots. Telstra stated that free Wi-Fi became available at selected enabled payphones from 25 August 2022, and that around 3,000 Wi-Fi-enabled payphones had been upgraded by 2023.<ref name="telstra-wifi">''Free Wi-Fi is now available to anyone across selected Telstra payphones'', Telstra Exchange, 7 November 2023, [https://www.telstra.com.au/exchange/free-wi-fi-is-now-available-to-anyone-across-selected-telstra-pa](https://www.telstra.com.au/exchange/free-wi-fi-is-now-available-to-anyone-across-selected-telstra-pa). Accessed 3 May 2026.</ref>
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	TTY units are visually distinct and are of particular interest to Payphonetag players. The TTY keyboard used with Telstra payphones is an '''Ultratec Pay Phone TDD''' keyboard. The keyboard slides out when TTY tones are detected over the phone line. Many units appear to have seen little regular use in recent years, so players should not assume that the TTY attachment is working unless tested.		TTY units are visually distinct and are of particular interest to Payphonetag players. The TTY keyboard used with Telstra payphones is an '''Ultratec Pay Phone TDD''' keyboard. The keyboard slides out when TTY tones are detected over the phone line. Many units appear to have seen little regular use in recent years, so players should not assume that the TTY attachment is working unless tested.

	TTY payphones that have been converted to use Telstra's 4G/cellular network, usually identifiable by an '''04''' number on the cabinet label, are currently reported not to work correctly with TTY. Telstra is aware of the issue and has stated that it is working on a solution.		TTY payphones that have been converted to use Telstra's 4G/cellular network, usually identifiable by an '''04''' number on the <nowiki>[[cabinet]]</nowiki> label, are currently reported not to work correctly with TTY. Telstra is aware of the issue and has stated that it is working on a solution.

	=== Wi-Fi-enabled cabinets ===		=== Wi-Fi-enabled cabinets ===

	Some Smart Payphones are installed in ~~cabinets~~ or surrounds that also provide free Telstra Wi-Fi. Telstra says users can connect by selecting the ''Free Telstra Wi-Fi'' network and accepting the portal terms.<ref name="telstra-wifi" /> Wi-Fi-enabled sites may have additional branding, antennas or cabinet modifications.		Some Smart Payphones are installed in <nowiki>[[cabinet]]</nowiki>s or surrounds that also provide free Telstra Wi-Fi. Telstra says users can connect by selecting the ''Free Telstra Wi-Fi'' network and accepting the portal terms.<ref name="telstra-wifi" /> Wi-Fi-enabled sites may have additional branding, antennas or <nowiki>[[cabinet]]</nowiki> modifications.

	Field observations suggest that Telstra Air / Free Telstra Wi-Fi-enabled payphones often use conventional domestic-style Telstra Smart Modems installed within the booth's roof ''hat'' or inside a Telstra Air cube enclosure mounted above the booth roof.		Field observations suggest that Telstra Air / Free Telstra Wi-Fi-enabled payphones often use conventional domestic-style Telstra Smart Modems installed within the booth's roof ''hat'' or inside a Telstra Air cube enclosure mounted above the booth roof.
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	=== Reporting faults ===		=== Reporting faults ===

	The official Telstra payphone fault line is '''180 22 44'''. Telstra states that this is a free call from Telstra payphones and operates 24/7. Useful details include the location, the payphone number or cabinet ID, a description of the fault, and details of any physical damage.<ref name="telstra-faults">''Reporting faults'', Telstra Consumer Advice, [https://www.telstra.com.au/consumer-advice/payphones/reporting-faults](https://www.telstra.com.au/consumer-advice/payphones/reporting-faults). Accessed 3 May 2026.</ref>		The official Telstra payphone fault line is '''180 22 44'''. Telstra states that this is a free call from Telstra payphones and operates 24/7. Useful details include the location, the payphone number or <nowiki>[[cabinet]]</nowiki> ID, a description of the fault, and details of any physical damage.<ref name="telstra-faults">''Reporting faults'', Telstra Consumer Advice, [https://www.telstra.com.au/consumer-advice/payphones/reporting-faults](https://www.telstra.com.au/consumer-advice/payphones/reporting-faults). Accessed 3 May 2026.</ref>

	In practice, Payphonetag players have found that the quickest way to submit ordinary non-urgent fault reports is usually '''Snap Send Solve'''. Telstra's damaged-equipment page directs non-urgent damage reports through Snap Send Solve, and Snap Send Solve says it can send Telstra equipment reports directly to Telstra.<ref name="telstra-damage">''Report damages to Telstra equipment'', Telstra Consumer Advice, [https://www.telstra.com.au/consumer-advice/digging-construction/report-damages](https://www.telstra.com.au/consumer-advice/digging-construction/report-damages). Accessed 3 May 2026.</ref><ref name="snap-telstra">''Report Damaged Telstra Equipment'', Snap Send Solve, 15 April 2026, [https://www.snapsendsolve.com/report/damaged-telstra-equipment](https://www.snapsendsolve.com/report/damaged-telstra-equipment). Accessed 3 May 2026.</ref>		In practice, Payphonetag players have found that the quickest way to submit ordinary non-urgent fault reports is usually '''Snap Send Solve'''. Telstra's damaged-equipment page directs non-urgent damage reports through Snap Send Solve, and Snap Send Solve says it can send Telstra equipment reports directly to Telstra.<ref name="telstra-damage">''Report damages to Telstra equipment'', Telstra Consumer Advice, [https://www.telstra.com.au/consumer-advice/digging-construction/report-damages](https://www.telstra.com.au/consumer-advice/digging-construction/report-damages). Accessed 3 May 2026.</ref><ref name="snap-telstra">''Report Damaged Telstra Equipment'', Snap Send Solve, 15 April 2026, [https://www.snapsendsolve.com/report/damaged-telstra-equipment](https://www.snapsendsolve.com/report/damaged-telstra-equipment). Accessed 3 May 2026.</ref>
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	A TTY-equipped Telstra Smart Payphone can be triggered by calling the Payphonetag number. After entering the required PIN, Payphonetag sends the modem/TTY tones needed to activate the Ultratec Pay Phone TDD keyboard. Once the keyboard slides out, type a message using the TTY keyboard. The message will be decoded and displayed in the '''#tty''' channel of the Payphonetag Discord.		A TTY-equipped Telstra Smart Payphone can be triggered by calling the Payphonetag number. After entering the required PIN, Payphonetag sends the modem/TTY tones needed to activate the Ultratec Pay Phone TDD keyboard. Once the keyboard slides out, type a message using the TTY keyboard. The message will be decoded and displayed in the '''#tty''' channel of the Payphonetag Discord.

	This is useful for testing whether the TTY attachment is still functional. If the keyboard does not slide out, the TTY unit, phone line, handset path, detection circuit or Payphonetag-side call path may be faulty. If the payphone has an '''04''' number on its cabinet label, it may be one of the 4G-converted TTY payphones currently affected by Telstra's known TTY issue.		This is useful for testing whether the TTY attachment is still functional. If the keyboard does not slide out, the TTY unit, phone line, handset path, detection circuit or Payphonetag-side call path may be faulty. If the payphone has an '''04''' number on its <nowiki>[[cabinet]]</nowiki> label, it may be one of the 4G-converted TTY payphones currently affected by Telstra's known TTY issue.

	=== Dialling when the keypad is not working properly ===		=== Dialling when the keypad is not working properly ===