The Australian Communications and Media Authority on Tuesday introduced new rules requiring mobile operators to publish standardized network coverage maps by June 30.

The maps must clearly designate 4G and 5G mobile coverage across the country in one of four categories, including good, moderate, basic, or no coverage, to help users make like-for-like comparisons of networks.

The maps will be based on predictive modeling and must be updated at least every three months to account for any changes in coverage. Mobile network operators Telstra Group (ASX:TLS), Optus, and TPG (ASX:TPG) are also required to provide the maps to partner companies for use by their customers, the regulator said.

In a statement to MT Newswires, a TPG Telecom spokesperson described the new rules as a win for consumers. "Coverage should mean your phone actually works, not that it might show a bar of signal that can't support a call."

Telstra did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

TPG Telecom's shares gained 1% in recent Tuesday trade.