Big four bank First National Bank (FNB) has launched an Apple application for its Connect voice over IP (VOIP) offering.
The “Connect Talk” VOIP application is available free from the local Apple application store. The application allows iPhone, iPod Touch and iPad users to make calls to cellphones and landlines in SA and abroad, at reduced rates.
Last October, FNB added 14 new phones to its range of handsets on which Connect can be used. The range now includes Sony-Ericsson, Nokia, HTC, Motorola, Samsung and Palm devices.
The Apple application is the “first proudly South African application to be available on the world renowned Apple app store,” says FNB.
Simple talking
FNB Connect Talk is a no-contract, prepaid only system. Call rates range from 33c to 49c per minute for local calls, 25c per minute for international calls, and 99c per minute to any local mobile number when making calls through an Internet connection.
CEO Luis Simoes says the aim is to keep the offering simple. He explains that calls can be made from a computer or compatible cellphone, or even from a landline if plugged into a VOIP-enabled router.
In addition, the system is a pay-as-you-go service, and FNB has developed an online call calculator so costs can be determined before calls are made.
“Live usage and billing statistics can be seen at any time instead of waiting for month-end to get the bill,” says Simoes.
Connect, launched in 2008, is the bank's virtual Internet service provider, which aims to provide simple and affordable telecommunications services to FNB customers. Non-FNB customers can open a non-transactional account online when applying for FNB Connect, to get them started.
Share