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Vodacom and MTN, South Africa’s two biggest mobile operators, have unveiled strict eligibility criteria for customers to access their latest ultra-cheap 4G smartphone promotions.
Both companies recently launched offers priced below $6, designed to help migrate millions of subscribers away from outdated 2G and 3G devices as the networks prepare to phase out legacy technologies in the coming years.
Although the cost of entry-level smartphones has dropped steadily, recent analyses by MyBroadband found that the most affordable 4G devices still retail at around $28 or more.
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MTN launched its Smartphone For All campaign in May 2025, aiming to distribute over 1.2 million affordable 4G devices by the end of 2026.
In its first phase, the operator distributed 5,000 Itel AC51 smartphones to qualifying customers at $5.50 each, with no additional charges. The device, which normally retails for about $41, features a 5-inch display, 32GB internal storage, a 5MP rear camera, a 2MP front camera, and a 2,050mAh battery.
The second phase, now underway, will distribute low-cost 4G smartphones to 130,000 prepaid customers. A final phase will expand the rollout with another 1.1 million devices.
Eligibility is based solely on tenure and device usage: customers must have been active on the MTN network for at least six months and currently use a 2G or 3G handset.
“If you qualify, you will receive an SMS inviting you to redeem the offer via USSD by dialling *142#,” MTN said. The operator confirmed that thousands have already benefited through a partnership with the Nazareth Baptist Church.
Vodacom launched its own entry-level smartphone offer in July 2025 as part of Mandela Month. For $3.70, selected customers can purchase the Vodacom Kicka 6, a 5.45-inch device with 32GB of internal memory, 1GB RAM, and dual 5MP cameras. The model typically sells for about $33.
The promotion is initially available only to loyal prepaid customers who have been long-standing users and are still on 2G devices. Vodacom clarified that socio-economic factors such as income are not considered in the selection process.
Currently, the programme is offered in KwaZulu-Natal, with Mpumalanga and Limpopo stores expected to join in September 2025.
Vodacom did not disclose the number of devices distributed so far but said customer uptake had been encouraging.
“For many, this is their first smartphone experience, so it is incredibly rewarding to see them engage with a new device,” the company said.
Both Vodacom and MTN emphasised that these initiatives are part of a broader strategy to bridge the digital divide by accelerating South Africa’s transition to 4G and 5G.
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