Airtel in partnership with mobile chip manufacturer Qualcomm has launched its first pan-Africa customised 3G smartphone in what it says is a move aimed at increasing its data revenue.
The phone which is aimed at tapping the increased number of internt users will retail at USD 53.
”Industry research shows that data is playing a vital role in growing the smartphone uptake in sub-Saharan Africa and more so in the 17 countries where we operate. Special attention was given to the device layout and the user interface to provide quick and simple access to services like Airtel mobile money and popular social media applications to our customers,” Christian de Faria, chief executive officer, Airtel Africa said during the launch.
The phone comes with 4GB ROM, 512 MB RAM with 32 GB external memory capacity, it also comes with a rear 3 mega pixel camera and a qualcomm dual core Central Processing Unit (CPU).
“As Airtel, we are focused on migrating, existing and new customers from the traditional feature phones to android smartphones to take advantage of Airtel’s 3G networks. We anticipate high uptake levels within the first six months of operations,” he added.
The smartphone is currently available in Seychelles, Uganda and Burkina Faso but is expected to launch in 14 other Airtel operating countries over the next few weeks.
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