MTN Launches New Smart S Handset For R249

MTN has launched its new Smart S smartphone in South Africa. The device was unveiled last year in November as the product of a partnership between MTN, Unisoc, KaiOS, and China Mobile.

The R249 Smart S feature phone is powered by the KaiOS operating system, which allows users of basic phones to access popular apps like WhatsApp, Facebook, YouTube, and Google Assistant, reported MyBroadband.

The handset supports 3G, GPS, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi connectivity. It also includes a web browser, front and rear cameras, FM radio, up to five days of battery life, and microSD support (32GB). It also supports dual SIM, which will allow users to mix and match when it comes to data and voice plans.

The mobile operator has bundled the Smart S phone with a monthly allocation of 100MB of data valid for 30 days, for first six months and 1GB of WhatsApp bundles, valid for 20 days, for first six months.

“We are living in a country where affordability of smart devices is one of the biggest barriers to internet access,” says Jacqui O’Sullivan, executive for corporate affairs at MTN South Africa. “By introducing this cutting-edge device at such an affordable price, MTN will help its customers, particularly students, small businesses and others that may have avoided traditional smartphones due to the cost, to become part of the information society at an accessible price.”

Sullivan added that the introduction of the Smart S coupled with the attractive bundles will advance MTN’s ambition to expand the outreach of internet by providing access to all South Africans.

The MTN Smart S is available at selected MTN retail stores and major retail partners. The smartphone launch follows the recent launch of the MTN Chat recharging channel, which enables MTN users to top up airtime and data bundles on the WhatsApp instant messaging platform.