BlackBerry 10 in SA: operators respond
BlackBerry launched their long awaited BlackBerry 10 operating system and devices yesterday, but most local operators are mum on their South African launch dates and product plans.
BlackBerry devices were launched in the UK today, and will become available in a few other countries over the next month.
Even more relevant to the local market is the apparent scrapping of BIS, which provides BlackBerry users with affordable, unlimited Internet access.
Rory O’Neill, VP of product & channel marketing at BlackBerry, said that BlackBerry 10 uses both their own infrastructure and the carrier’s infrastructure to deliver the “BlackBerry experience”.
He said that they are not quite ready to talk about how South Africa’s BIS-based data packages are going to change as they are “still talking through the commercial terms” with carriers.
SA’s mobile operators give feedback about BlackBerry 10
Amith Maharaj
8ta has confirmed that it will be offering a range of data and voice packages to cater for the varied needs of BlackBerry 10 users.
“BlackBerry 10 traffic will terminate on the carrier internet APN unlike the current BlackBerry Internet Services (BIS) and BlackBerry Enterprise Server (BES) traffic that terminates on the blackberry.net APN,” 8ta said.
“Subscription charges on these data packages will fall away with the BlackBerry 10 operating system enabling mobile networks to package unique offers to consumers.”
“8ta is uniquely positioned to offer high volume data packages to provide 8ta customers with a quality experience while using their BlackBerry 10 device,” said 8ta.
8ta added that BlackBerry 10 deals and devices will be available through 8ta flagship stores and Telkom direct stores from 1 March 2013.
Consumers can also pre-order the BlackBerry 10 devices and deals from 8ta for delivery on 1 March 2013.
FNB CEO Michael Jordaan also confirmed that the bank will be offering new Blackberry 10 when it lands in South Africa.
Ryan Gould
Ryan Gould, general manager for brand and communication at MTN SA, said that MTN will range the Blackberry 10 device and “is excited at the possibilities that the new operating system brings for its customers”.
However, MTN would not provide a launch date or other product details. “MTN will make an announcement on pricing and availability in due course,” said Gould.
Cell C said that it cannot provide any details about the BlackBerry 10 service or products.
Vodacom would also not say anything of value. “The launch plans for BB10 have not yet been finalised. A public announcement will be made closer to the time of launch,” said Vodacom spokesperson Nomsa Thusi.
More BlackBerry 10 articles
BlackBerry 10 BIS changes in SA confirmed
BIS and BlackBerry 10 explained
BlackBerry 10 SA launch date revealed
BlackBerry 10 device prices and launch dates
Loading ...