3G smart device will bridge rural connectivity gap, says MTN boss

Mr. Raul De, chief marketing officer, MTN Nigeria, has described the launch of the world’s first 3G smart feature phone known as the MTN Smart, as a strategic effort to bridge the rural-urban connectivity gap.

De, speaking at the launch of the affordable phone, said MTN is keeping to its promise of making access to advanced digital services a reality for everyone with the compact, high-quality device available at a very affordable price.

This first of its kind 3G KaiOS smart feature phone, allows customers to upgrade from a typical feature phone with only voice and text capabilities, to a fully connected device with a fast 3G internet connection, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS, dual SIM 3G capabilities.

It has an App Store and comes pre-loaded with the most popular Apps available in the market today, including but not limited to WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Google Maps.

Commenting on this innovation, De said, “Despite rising mobile phone penetration and increased data consumption, device affordability remains a significant disincentive for most Nigerians. The MTN Smart feature phone is a great, affordable and tailor-made solution aimed at bridging this device gap and ensuring that every Nigerian is able to benefit from the modern, connected life.”

The phone which boasts of two cameras, a 2-day battery life with 2000mAh battery, is powered by the SC7731EF processor, has a 2.4-inch screen, 256MB RAM and 512MB of storage and runs on the increasingly popular KaiOS operating system.

Suitable for individuals who are digital savvy and desire affordable smartphones, the MTN Smart is available in all MTN stores across Nigeria for just N8,000 and comes with free 500MB monthly data for the first six months.