Mobile broadband moves
Recent media reports surfaced suggesting that Vodacom and MTN were considering new data pricing models. Vodacom has indicated that it was investigating new pricing structures, but would not elaborate on its plans.
Yesterday Vodacom made its first move by making HSUPA access free to all its current data subscribers, scrapping the need to pay R 49.00 per month to enjoy higher upload speeds.
According to Vodacom’s commercial director Romeo Kumalo the company will be meeting this week to discuss their broadband pricing models, which may include new data bundle pricing, bandwidth rollover and lower out-of-bundle rates.
Vodacom would however not officially comment on any of its plans in the broadband market, simply saying that it would make an announcement at the appropriate time.
MTN is also keeping its cards close to its chest, saying that it would announce new broadband data pricing to the public "if and when it introduces new data pricing".
MTN did, however, point out that it recently launched its “Colourful World” service that simplified data charges while roaming. With this service MTN subscribers are charged one rate per zone (region) regardless of the county the customer is roaming in.
These data roaming zones are exactly the same as the zones for voice roaming and are divided into Africa, Europe, Asia & Middle East, Australia, North America and South America.
“MTN South Africa has roaming agreements with close to 500 operators worldwide for voice and data services. This enables MTN customers to use their MTN SIM cards almost anywhere in the world,” the cellular operator said.
“This makes travelling hassle free; as customers don’t have to buy a new prepaid SIM card in the country they are visiting for voice and data roaming. Standard voice roaming rates however do not apply to data services. With the launch of Colourful World, MTN now simplifies the data charges while roaming.”
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