Microsoft to offer cheap internet in South Africa in partnership with MTN
World’s largest software company Microsoft is planning to offer cheap internet service in the South African region in partnership with South African cellular operator MTN.
Microsoft Chairman Bill Gates was speaking at a conference in Cape Town where he said that Microsoft and MTN would work together to provide affordable options for consumers who purchase Internet connectivity and a personal computer running Microsoft’s Windows starter edition software.
The two companies plan to offer flexible terms through either the purchase of the PC and Internet access on a fixed-term contract for a low monthly fee or through purchasing the PC and a month-to-month Internet contract.
Gates added: “Mobile connectivity has become a key driver of telecommunications growth across the continent and has paved the way for increased mobile access through convergence and mobile data and wireless applications.”
Bill Gates further said that they believe wireless internet connectivity is the way to go in developing nations where it is expensive and time consuming to get wired connectivity.