Vodacom hopes to extend Internet connectivity to more South Africans with its new WebBox device that provides Internet access using the customer's existing television set.
According to Vodacom commercial director Romeo Kumalo, it is estimated that just over 10% of the South African population has access to the Internet.
However, he explains that the WebBox, a Vodafone innovation, has been developed specifically for customers in emerging markets, where technology and cost barriers exclude many from enjoying affordable and easy Internet access.
The device includes a keyboard that comes with a SIM card and an in-built modem, which provides a simple user interface, enabling users to navigate between the services that include Internet browsing, SMS and e-mail messaging.
The device goes on sale at select Vodashops and Vodacom outlets tomorrow, and will retail at R749.The offer includes a 2Gig SD Card, a prepaid SIM card and 100MB of data valid for three months. It will also be available on a 24-month contract soon, says Vodacom.
“The value that this product will add to schools, homes and small businesses is potentially dramatic. The wealth of knowledge that is available on the Internet can now be accessed by millions of South Africans, which will add greater value to the South African economy,” says Kumalo.
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