Singapore’s M1 launches in-flight data with 18 airlines
Singapore’s third largest operator M1 expanded its data roaming coverage to international flights, with the launch of unlimited in-flight data on 18 airlines, including Singapore Airlines, British Airways and Qatar Airways.

The operator offers an unlimited package for SGD25 ($17.70) per day and a pay-per-use option, which is SGD0.24 per 10KB, with a cap set at SGD30 per day.

The offer applies to M1’s preferred in-flight network – OnAir. Other airlines covered include Cebu Pacific Air, Emirates, Etihad Airways, Thai Airways and Sri Lankan Airlines.

Telstra offers free Wi-Fi until June
Australia’s largest operator Telstra is giving customers free access to its Wi-Fi network until 30 June next year.

The operator launched the Telstra Air network in June, and said it has thousands of Wi-Fi hotspots across the country in parks, shopping areas, cafes, transport hubs and in residential areas.

The offer is extended to mobile customers on eligible prepaid and postpaid plans.

HKT expands Tap & Go service
Hong Kong’s largest operator HKT expanded access to its Tap & Go payment service to all mobile users in the territory.

Tap & Go was launched in July via an all-in-one SIM for Android phone users. iPhone and other non-NFC Android users can now download the Tap & Go app after applying for the service at any HKT shop.

Registered users can make payments of up to HKD1,000 ($128) each in stores by tapping their Tap & Go card on MasterCard PayPass contactless readers worldwide and make online purchases of up to HKD10,000 per transaction.

Users can also make remote money transfers and cash top-ups.

Viettel starts 4G pilot in the south
Vietnam’s Viettel launched a 4G pilot in Ba Ria-Vung Tau province, after receiving a license from the Ministry of Information and Communications last month.

The operator has nearly 200 base stations and is offering customers access in six locations in shopping malls, supermarkets and its retail shops, Viet Nam News reported.

Ba Ria-Vung Tau is the financial hub as well as cultural and tourism centre of the south.

Viettel aims to start 4G trials before the Chinese New Year in early February and is the first to introduce 4G service in the country. Commercial 4G services aren’t expected until 2017.