MTN has launched a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) service, taking on Cell C in offering a platform for brands that want to offer a mobile service to customers but don’t want to invest in their own infrastructure.
Cell
C’s MVNO service includes major players like Virgin Mobile, FNB Connect, Mr
Price Mobile, me&you mobile, and Standard Bank Mobile, but these have not posed a
challenge to the fully fledged network operators. The limitation of Cell C’s
network has proven to be a barrier, and MTN may well attempt to woo its big
customers.
“We
expect MVNO subscribers across the country to double over the next five years,
with several large players introducing offerings,” says Quintus De Beer, Acting Executive
for Managed Network Services at MTN. “MTN is excited to be an enabler of this further
growth path by putting our network capacity to work, as the rapid pace of
digital change requires more agile and tailored solutions so that more people
can benefit.
MTN
says the new service also opens up an opportunity for MTN to explore specific
bespoke projects through strategic MVNO partnerships.
“Worldwide
people have benefited from the experiences that MVNOs bring to the market and
with the unique challenges South Africa face, we see this as an important
platform to enable a better life for all,” says De Beer.
“MVNOs,
through various specialised platform providers, offer a wide scope of services,
and with a best-in-class network we believe that new MVNO businesses will
assist to create job opportunities and secondary markets to contribute to the
broader South African economy.
“We
believe everyone deserves the benefits of a modern, connected life. By entering
the MVNO space, we are growing South Africa’s digital eco-system by enabling
more value and services for consumers. This makes business sense, as we are
putting the best network to work for more people, in a managed and sensible
manner.”
Most
MVNOs use a platform developed by MVN-X, which describes itself as a Mobile Virtual Network
Enabler. These are entities that provide business systems, administration and
operations support processes to MVNOs. MTN did not indicate whether it would
work with MVN-X.
