This archive report was first published on 18 July 2020.
On July 18, 2020, Vodacom made history by becoming the first mobile operator globally to offer Google Play Store data bundles, in partnership with search engine giant Google.
This innovative service allows Vodacom users to browse the store, download and update their Android applications without incurring large data costs.
According to Zunaid Mahomed, Vodacom's Group Digital and Fixed Officer, 'Vodacom prides itself on being a leading digital telco that strives to offer innovative services, solutions and continuous value for all our customers.'
He added that the company's goal is to 'play an active role in enabling customers to fully optimise their smartphone use and connect today for a better tomorrow.'
As part of this partnership, Vodacom will also be working with Google's Loon to launch its own network of internet balloons in Mozambique's two northernmost provinces, Cabo Delgado and Niassa.
Google's Loon technology has already been successfully tested in Kenya, where it was used to launch floating internet base stations. These base stations provide 4G LTE network coverage, supporting data, voice, SMS and USSD.
