Mobile

MTN South Africa partners with KnowRoaming to introduce the Travel eSIM, offering cost-effective data roaming across 150+ destinations worldwide. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

South Africans can now access more affordable data roaming rates across over 150 destinations, thanks to MTN's Travel eSIM in collaboration with KnowRoaming

The Travel eSIM allows users to conveniently purchase data bundles, offering a cost-effective solution to manage international data usage and minimise the risk of unexpected charges.

Complementing MTN's existing International Roaming Data options, the Travel eSIM provides data bundles ranging from 1GB to 20GB, with prices customised per country. For example, a 1GB data bundle valid for seven days costs approximately US$3.60 in Dubai, US$4.10 in the UK, US$3.60 in the USA, or US$4.10 in Tanzania. For extended stays, a 5GB bundle valid for 15 days is priced at around US$12.10 in Dubai, US$13.70 in the UK, $14.80 in the USA, or $16.90 in Tanzania.

The service also offers regional multi-country bundles for travelers visiting multiple countries on one trip. For instance, a European Travel eSIM covering 39 countries is available from approx. US$3.60 for 1GB, seamlessly connecting to local networks as users move between countries.

“With a simple installation and a sign-up process that takes less than 5 minutes, Travel eSIM offers customers seamless internet connectivity in selected countries, giving them the freedom to choose from various country-specific or regional data roaming bundles. The service is entirely digital, eliminating the need for a physical SIM card,” remarked Jason Probert, general manager: digital services at MTN South Africa.

“Travel eSIM is data-only, allowing customers to use it for internet-based services such as WhatsApp, Instagram, or Facebook,” Probert added.

Compatible with eSIM-enabled devices, the service works in eligible countries and regions alongside MTN's existing international roaming options, ensuring flexibility and affordability. Notifications alert users when data is running low, and top-ups can be completed easily via the Travel eSIM website. Customers can also activate voice and SMS-only roaming bundles for use alongside Travel eSIM's cost-effective data bundles.

Smartcall introduces Vodacom eSIM, offering seamless, eco-friendly connectivity for travelers with instant activation, virtual numbers, and flexible data plans. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

Leading South African connectivity retailer Smartcall now offers the Vodacom eSIM, a game-changer in mobile connectivity that eliminates the need for traditional plastic SIM cards

The eSIM uses a built-in chip in compatible devices like smartphones, tablets, and wearables to store essential mobile data. It supports Vodacom’s prepaid, top-up, and postpaid contract packages, allowing users to easily switch or load new plans as needed. Impressively, one device can store up to eight virtual numbers, making it ideal for holiday travelers.

Purchasing a Vodacom eSIM from Smartcall includes a seamless, free self-RICA process using a QR code for instant activation. The digital delivery of the eSIM eliminates reliance on courier services or physical store visits, ensuring quick and convenient access—perfect for last-minute plans.

Smartcall’s Vodacom eSIM simplifies holiday connectivity, offering flexibility, speed, and eco-friendly convenience. Experience the future of mobile communication by getting your eSIM from Smartcall today.

The Hub explores the effects of digital transformation on people's well-being. (Image source: Sandra Cifo)

Worldwide technology leader Cisco recently partnered with the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) to launch the Digital Well-being Hub, the world's first cross-cutting study into the complex relationship between digital technologies and individual well-being

Several issues such as a lack of digital skills, or uncertainty about application of technology may limit job prospects or deter responsible social media use, participating in online education, healthcare or civic engagement. The Hub aims to dig deeper into the interplay between these issues by taking a holistic view of digital well-being that makes connections between the use of digital technologies and factors such as life satisfaction, mental health, digital skills, cyber safety, civic engagement, climate consciousness and social connections. 

It is grounded in the OECD Well-being Framework and captures real-time evidence of people's well-being, digital behaviours, and inequalities in technology use. Visitors to the Hub can also explore and interact with the OECD's existing findings on technology's impacts and compare country-level data.

"Up to 14% of people in OECD countries feel lonely, which could be potentially exacerbated by the use of digital tools,” said Romina Boarini, director of OECD Centre for Well-being, Inclusion, Sustainability and Equal Opportunity (WISE). “Through our collaboration with Cisco, we are exploring the unintended consequences of excessive or problematic use of digital tools to understand how people live in the digital world. Our findings will help to shape policies and foster a more equitable and inclusive digital future."

The GSMA unifies the mobile ecosystem to drive innovation that promotes positive business environments and societal change. (Image source: Hayo)

The GSMA, a global member-led organisation representing the mobile industry, has welcomed Hayo to its community

Bringing more than three decades of experience delivering communications services and digital solutions to Africa, the Middle East and around the world, Hayo has an overarching mission of closing the digital gap in Africa. It aims to do this by bringing technology and digital solutions to underserved rural areas, as well as urban developments.

As such, its voice will be a welcome addition to the GSMA. Already the organisation comprises nearly 700 mobile network operators and more than 450 companies ranging from technology providers to enterprises from vertical industries. As a new addition to these ranks, Hayo and GSMA community experts will work together to solve industry challenges and accelerate innovation to positively impact the future of mobile technology.

“Joining the GSMA is a key milestone for Hayo and represents a very exciting opportunity to accelerate digital transformation across the mobile ecosystem on a global scale,” remarked Feraz Ahmed, CEO at Hayo. “We have a wealth of experience not only in telecoms, but also digital solutions, to deliver on-the-ground innovation that has a positive impact on local people’s lives. We’re looking forward to connecting with other GSMA members to collaborate and maximise the potential of new, existing and emerging technologies for businesses and consumers alike.”

“We are pleased to welcome Hayo as an industry member and look forward to their valuable insights and collaboration on GSMA initiatives that help shape the mobile ecosystem,” said Colin Bareham, general manager, membership, GSMA. "Our members represent a truly diverse group of organisations, including many different vertical industries, and together, we have the power to transform businesses and societies around the world.”