>
New Topic
>
Reply<
Esato Forum Index
>
Regional >
Europe, Middle East and Africa
> South African mobile discussion
Bookmark topic
@utheta The reason the cell net works do this in SA because some networks are over subscribed like Vodacom.Vodacom is the only network in SA that has 3 different prefix which is 082 072 076.Another reason we dont have number porting yet but its coming this year.On the Vodacom network when a number is deleted on a contract it can take up 2 years for it to come back in circulation.A recent survey was done by a private company in SA that all 3 cell net have about 4million numbers that are not in use for a long time.These numbers could be for foreigners that come in SA for holidays and leave SA.Some of these foreigners do come back or it could just be some subscribers who have more than 1 numbers......South African networks dont have the prepaids customer indentification or address so they dont know who are their customers......the list goes on and on and on
This message was posted from a P900
--
Posted: 2005-05-03 19:29:40
Edit :
Quote
@Tahir,
Thanks for the info. The info you provide is usually interesting and informative,especially when you don't over-do the Vodacom/Vodafone cheerleading.
Another reason I ask this is because I remember when I first got a Vodacom simcard in 1994, a whole whopping 11 years ago, one had to buy airtime vouchers even back then too, surely when there wasn't nearly the over-subscription that there is now? Did we have to pay for airtime windows for the same reason back then?
I understand the foreigners issue etc., but the same applies to the THOUSANDS of visitors to the UK each year, who also buy a cheap simcard and use that for the duration of their stay, many of who also do not register their details to the network.
As regards GSM network congestion, only 02 and Vodafone operate on the GSM 900 band, the rest use GSM 1800, yet there is never any mention here of network congestion here, despite the massive numbers of users. No need to charge people for airtime even with the incredibly high volumes. So how are the UK networks managing without resorting to charging people for airtime?!?
I dunno. Maybe I don't know enough to argue regarding the frequency congestion issues and airtime window story, but you gotta admit,paying for airtime windows surely must bring some healthy revenue for the SA networks.
Despite the valid/pertinent points you have mentioned, I can't help but feel that it's still another way of milking people for a service they are already paying for.(calls,sms,mms,mutimedia,etc.). Just my opinion of course, and definitely in the interests of all SA PAYG cellphone users.
--
Posted: 2005-05-03 20:11:10
Edit :
Quote
@Utheta SA only had a prepaid system implemented in 1996.The SA networks dont charge for airtime windows any more.I am going to explain how airtime window works in SA.MTN you have to make,receive a call or sms once in 3 months for your number to be active.Cell C you have to recharge your account once in 3 months.VODACOM on the other hand is still better.When you buy sim from Voda it gives a sim that has a 6,12,24 months airtime window and if you are within this time period you have to make,receive a call or sms,mms or any activity thats generates income for Voda atleast once in 7 months and 5 days.Or Vodacom does have a solution for those customer who are out of the country more than 7 months.You have to buy a passport voucher which sell @ R365.It gives you R265 airtime to use for calls,sms,data,etc.The R100 is for you to keep the sim card open for 2years......When you buy airtime between R12-R110 it will give you 3month window.R275 6 months R1000 will gives you 12months+ R100 extra
This message was posted from a P900
--
Posted: 2005-05-03 22:17:02
Edit :
Quote
@Tahir,
My apologies for my dodgy memory..You are correct.
I had the usual 2 year contract before reverting to PAYG in 1996.(I was over-spending on my Vodacom contract back then!)
Do you know how much of the Eastern Cape has 3G yet? Is there any time frame set by Vodacom to have 3G over most of SA?
--
Posted: 2005-05-03 23:06:48
Edit :
Quote
@ Utheta It will take Vodacom another 18 months to cover SA with 3G.Vodacom said before it launched it will take them 2years to cover SA with 3G.6 months has laps and according to Vodacom they are 1 month ahead of coverage for 3G....Is there any towns in Eastern Cape that you want to know if its covered for 3G.Or visit www.vodacom.co.za and click for 3g coverage.The roll out is expanding so quickly the map Vodacom has is not up to date...Give me atleast 48hrs to find out how many 3G sites are in the Eastern Cape or planned sites for phase 2
This message was posted from a P900
--
Posted: 2005-05-03 23:27:59
Edit :
Quote
Way off topic... Much love to Liverpool for beating Chelski. From an avowed Gooner.
This message was posted from a K700i
--
Posted: 2005-05-03 23:42:12
Edit :
Quote
Will be staying between East London and Port Elizabeth most of the time that I'm in SA in July/August.
Doubt I'll be using much or any 3G services while on holiday, but just curious as regards the pace of 3G implementation in SA, especially around cities that are usually/traditionally 'further down the pecking order' when it comes to new developments, after Jhb, CT, Durbs etc.
Tks for the info.
--
Posted: 2005-05-04 00:06:41
Edit :
Quote
@Brix,
You..a pukka gooner?! Hmm, no wonder you're so happy Liverpool beat Abramovich's Army...ESPECIALLY after Chelski won the premiership this past weekend. Mind you, that was somewhat of a controversial goal tonight, not that it matters now. Anyway, at least Arsenal look set to finish higher than Manure! LOL!!!!
_________________
He who laughs last, thinks slowest...
[ This Message was edited by: uthetha ituvi on 2005-05-03 23:30 ]
--
Posted: 2005-05-04 00:29:21
Edit :
Quote
Sure that goal was controversial but it was still a goal... Maureen wasn't to pleased with the outcome but who cares anyway, money can't buy everything...it still takes guts and determination to win a game of football.
This message was posted from a K700i
--
Posted: 2005-05-04 06:32:52
Edit :
Quote
Oh my big mouth supports Liverpool... typical. DOOS!!
--
Posted: 2005-05-04 08:07:07
Edit :
Quote
New Topic
Reply
