SHARED MOBILE PLANS AS A SMALL BUSINESS SOLUTION
When Telkom launched its Freeme Family packages in February, smartphone users took notice. The three options were all led by large mobile data allocations, free Telkom-to-telkom calls, and free use of over-the-top services like Whatsapp. At launch, the packages came in three sizes (defined by their monthly data limits): 30GB, 50GB, and Unlimited – priced at R699, R999, and R1,499 respectively. While the name “Freeme Family” gives it a consumer-focused feel, small businesses may want to compare how their current employee smartphone plans stack up against the new packages from Telkom.
A strong selling point of Freeme Family as a small business solution is the ability to link 10 SIM cards to a single account – with the account holder then able to allocate the data and calls as required. The packages come with four free Multi-sims, with a maximum limit of 10 SIMS.
Solid start
Telkom told Mybroadband that although the idea of sharing data from a single account among multiple people is a relatively new one, the Freeme Family plans have seen a “solid start” in the market. “Previously, customers had access to services such as Multi-sims, but did not have access to the value that is offered by the Freeme Family plans,” said Telkom spokesperson Jacqui O'sullivan.
O'sullivan said the plans allow small businesses to “consolidate their cellphone spending and realise benefits with just one account”. Freeme Family offers a single view of a small business’s cellphone bill, and data allowance and usage can be customised for maximum flexibility, she said.
Part of the reason for the solid start described by O'sullivan is the great value that the packages offer. At launch, Mybroadband took the 30GB Freeme Family service and allocated it to five hypothetical users. The cost was split over the five users, resulting in a perperson bill of R140 – giving each user 5GB of data, unlimited on-net minutes, and unlimited SMS messaging.
Compared to individual packages from other network operators - which included 6GB of mobile data, calling minutes, and SMS messaging – Freeme Family was substantially cheaper.
Shared data in South Africa
Telkom believes that data will continue to be an area where mobile operators experience continued growth - whether related to usage, subscriber numbers, or revenue.
“The focus on data as a driving force when looking at the progression into an Ip-based world, the rise of IOT, and related concepts should be an indication that data is becoming central to driving mobile revenue worldwide,” said O'sullivan.
While the concept of shared data plans may be quite new in South Africa, the simplicity they bring to datahungry consumers and businesses – along with their ease of use and value for money – will see the packages become a preferred option for many customers, said O'sullivan. ■