Kenya: Orange Launches High Speed Domino Wi-Fi Modem into Data Market
By NewsfromAfrica
NAIROBI… Integrated telecommunications company Orange has intensified its data market penetration efforts with the launch of its new 3G Wi-Fi modem. The high speed data product dubbed Domino is a plug and play device ideal for data users on the move.
Running on Orange’s robust 3G network, the modem will be able to support up to five users, within a transmitting radius of 20 metres. Moreover, its tethered feature is ideal for a user with multiple data enabled devices.
According to company CEO Mickael Ghossein, the new modem will improve the value proposition of Orange to its SME and SoHo market.
“This is a sector that contributes close to 20 per cent of the country’s GDP. Orange is therefore obliged to play its role to support this important sector with the provision of varied data connectivity options, dependent on the nature of their business and processes,” he said.
According to the latest industry statistics released by industry regulator, the Communications Commission of Kenya (CCK) for the third quarter of 2011/2012 (January-March 2012), the total number of broadband subscriptions increased tremendously to record 651,738 up from 131,829 posted the previous quarter, with the growth being attributed to increased subscriptions of GSM, 3G and EVDO by Telkom Kenya.
“The company’s focus is now on data services and as our innovation and research continues to increasingly address customer-oriented needs, we will continue to give better data services like the Domino,” said Ghossein, adding that the innovative product and service offering from Orange was anchored on the firm’s heavy investment on broadband infrastructure.
Orange customers will be able to purchase already existing prepaid and post paid data bundles or the unlimited data offerings to top up this device that comes with a longer battery life, very much in positive contrast to similar tethered devices in the market.
Orange customers will also be able to earn Ziada points from using this modem that comes with parental control features.
“Our customers will be able to redeem points earned for free calls, SMSs as well as devices,” said Ghossein on the Orange Ziada loyalty programme that was revamped in the first quarter of this year, to cater for individual and distinct communication needs and patterns of Orange customers.
The Domino that will retail at KSh 9,999 will come with a 2GB data bundle for prepaid customers. The device which allows for faster and more convenient internet on the go is available at Orange shops and partner outlets.