Finally, Africans can smile!
This is because MTN group announced a partnership with China Mobile, KaiOS and UNISOC to launch the world’s first 3G smart feature phone in Africa.
The new product will allow customers to upgrade from a feature phone with only voice and text capabilities, to a fully connected handset with fast, 3G internet.
This is because of the competitive pricing of the device, access to advanced digital services is finally a reality for everyone.
“As MTN we are proud to be part of this partnership that supports our ambitions to deepen digital inclusion in our markets,” said Rob Shuter, Group President and CEO of MTN.
“This initiative contributes to the achievement of one of our key goals to provide affordable data enabled handsets to our customers, and by so doing, remove some of the barriers to mobile internet adoption in Africa.”
What are the new features?
The new smart feature phone runs on KaiOS — the world’s leading operating system for smart feature phones — and includes the following features and services: Fast internet access through Wi-Fi and 3G; Bluetooth connectivity and GPS for navigation; Google Assistant and other smart services; KaiStore – home to the world’s most popular apps and localized content; 2 cameras, as well as music and video streaming services; Long battery life 2000mah and Dual SIM support.
KaiOS already powers close to 50 million smart feature phones globally, including in the USA, Canada, India, China, and several countries in Europe.
It has overtaken iOS as the second most popular mobile operating system in India (based on data usage) and is at the forefront of connecting the next billion users by enabling devices that provide affordable mobile internet access.
“With 834 million people still unconnected to the internet in Africa, today’s launch with MTN, UNISOC and China Mobile stands to have a significant impact on communities across the continent,” said Sebastien Codeville, CEO of KaiOS Technologies.
“MTN has one of the largest customer bases in the region, and coupled with KaiOS, we’re taking an important step toward closing the digital divide on the continent.”
Through the efforts of all parties, this product will help convert African 2G users to 3G, allowing African people to enjoy high-speed mobile networks.
The new smart feature phone is powered by the UNISOC SC7731EF, the first 3G smart chipset with up to 256MB RAM.
The device has a 2.4’ screen, 256MB/512MB RAM/ROM, a 2000MAH battery, and supports dual SIM.
It will be available starting from the first quarter of 2019.