MTN brings consumers affordable Internet on their TVs

MTN today unveiled InternetOnTV, bringing affordable Internet access to South Africa's unconnected masses.

MTN InternetOnTV is a home phone and Internet device in one, including a built-in 3G modem that supports 7.2Mbps connectivity. The package includes a keyboard, RCA cable and mouse. The MTN InternetOnTV device can be used with a PayAsYouGo SIM card and can be loaded with airtime, just like a cellphone - this airtime can be converted to an Internet bundle for cheaper Internet access.

Convenient for home usage, a customer would simply connect the MTN InternetOnTV device to the television set to enjoy access to the Internet. It also includes pre-installed software with links to useful Web sites on the Internet. MTN InternetOnTV connects at high speeds of up to 7.2Mbps downloads and up to 5.76Mbps uploads.

“Through the launch of our InternetOnTV device, we aim to increase Internet penetration among previously disadvantaged and unconnected communities in South Africa,” explains Mapula Bodibe, General Manager: Consumer Marketing at MTN South Africa.

In addition to providing cost-effective and easy access to the Internet at home, MTN InternetOnTV can also be used to make and receive phone calls and SMSes at the same time.

“We want our consumers to better understand the benefits associated with the Internet concept, to embrace it as a tool that makes their lives easier, gives them instant access to information and connects them socially in a way they never thought possible.

“Unlike some competing products, MTN InternetOnTV offers social media integration, MS Office document support and 3G 7.2Mbps. Furthermore, the built-in media player also supports MP3, AAC, DIV, WMA and MPEG4 codecs, while access to e-mail services is also provided,” she adds.

MTN InternetOnTV makes Internet connection simpler and more cost-efficient as there is no need for costly laptops, desktop computers, modems and telephone lines. MTN InternetOnTV dispels the perception that Internet access is expensive, making it ideal for MTN PayAsYouGo customers who enjoy the freedom of being in control of their cellphone spend.

“The MTN InternetOnTV device has made it extremely simple for our entire family to connect to the internet, access a variety of pre-loaded and helpful Web sites, while sharing photos and other information with our friends and family,” says Mamelodi homeowner, Mrs Mokau.

Mamelodi trader, Mrs Masemola, is equally complimentary: “MTN InternetOnTV allows me to connect to the Internet very easily and conveniently, which ensures my small business remains productive every day of the week, 24/7. Now that's Ayoba!”

The MTN InternetOnTV device can be connected to almost any type of television so consumers do not need to have the latest TV set to use it. MTN InternetOnTV includes Opera Mini browser, which offers faster browsing time because of its high data compression.

The MTN InternetOnTV package will be available from selected Jet retail stores countrywide at a cost of only R999 - existing Jet account holders may pay the device off over six months, interest free. This includes the InternetOnTV package (handset, RCA cable, keyboard and mouse) and a R60 airtime voucher, which can be converted to a 75MB Internet bundle.

“MTN has a range of Internet bundles from 10MB to 2GB, as well as a One Day Uncapped Internet bundle. We will soon be introducing a 90-minute Internet bundle to provide another cost-effective way for consumers to access the Internet.

“The InternetOnTV device is an evolutionary and innovative MTN product providing previously unconnected communities with easy access to global information instantly. Everywhere we go, we make significant strides in bridging the communication gap,” concludes Bodibe.