Airtel Africa has extended its existing partnership with global technology leader, Google to make internet products accessible to a greater number of consumers in Africa.
The two companies have teamed up to launch Google+ and Chat SMS features across the 16 markets in which Airtel operates and have plans to continue deepening the strategic relationship to increase affordable and ubiquitous access to the internet and Google products for its end users.
The two companies have teamed up to bring the value of Google products to SMS users.
A press statement from Airtel stated that users can now use Google+ Messenger and Google Chat to communicate between all mobile phones and platforms even if they are offline or have an SMS and voice only phone.
With Google+ SMS notifications and ability to post status updates via SMS, users are always connected with the people in their circles.
�We are extremely excited about taking this mutually-beneficial relationship to the next level,� explained Andre Beyers, Chief Marketing Officer, Airtel Africa.
�By extending our already existing relationship into the future, both Airtel and Google will work together to ensure that we can provide consumers with access to innovative products that will have a positive impact on how they experience the internet.�
Mr. Beyers said that the telecoms operator is in the process of building the largest 3G network across the continent which will directly support the partnership.
The 3G is expected to transform how subscribers experience the web on internet-enabled cell phones.
�Airtel has always been committed to providing consumers with relevant and innovative products and services,� said Willie Ellis, Group Products & Innovations Director, Airtel Africa.
He added that �strategic partnerships such as this one will allow us to continue delivering mobile solutions that will improve our customers� internet experience.�
In a related development, Airtel Malawi launched its mobile money platform, Airtel Money to strengthen its commitment to provide affordable and innovative solutions to all.
The platform, allows consumers and communities to take maximum advantage of the mobile commerce reality sweeping through the industry by enabling them to conduct a range of financial transactions quickly and easily.
The new Airtel money platform provides consumers with a robust offering of products that cuts across Mobile banking, Service payments, Top ups and Money Transfer services.
Commenting on the power of the service in the country, Airtel Malawi Managing Director, Saulos Chilima said �Airtel Money is our answer to the onerous task of creating innovative financial solutions that rest on the mobile platform to a country that has recorded steady growth rate in the mobile phone market and backed by a young, educated population.�
Mr Chilima added: �Mobile commerce has completely transformed the face of banking, and services such as Airtel Money, give a large segment of the unbanked population easy access to financial services. We are working with various partners and our regulator in the country in order to harmonise the service to serve our customers better.�
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