Leader in the delivery of Internet access in emerging markets, DataWind Inc. has partnered with Airtel Africa to provide low-cost mobile Internet access in Nigeria.
Airtel Africa is a subsidiary of Bharti Airtel Limited, a leading global telecommunications provider with operations in 20 countries across Asia and Africa. Airtel Africa is one of the four major network operators in Nigeria, offering 3G coverage throughout most major cities and 2G coverage in most rural areas of the country.
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In Nigeria, 88 million or 48 percent of the total population of 185 million people are without Internet access. DataWind's Internet delivery platform represents a significant step forward in low-cost Internet connectivity, offering a compelling solution to bring the Internet to the unconnected.
By using patented, cloud-based technology, Datawind's solution reduces bandwidth consumption by factors of over 10 to 30 times, resulting in an affordable, broadband-like Internet experience on any data network that includes 2G networks.
DataWind intends to offer Internet access initially bundled with its low-cost tablet computers and smartphones, followed by the launch of a device-independent app that would provide the benefits of its breakthrough technology to the full universe of Android smartphone customers in Nigeria at a very affordable cost.
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"This new partnership and our entry into Nigeria represent an additional new milestone for DataWind following our success in India," said DataWind Chairman, Raja Tuli.
"Partnering with Airtel to deliver Internet access demonstrates our continued ability to gain the support of major network operators," he added.
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Chief Commercial and Strategy Officer, Airtel Nigeria, Ahmed Mokhles expressed delight at the partnership and said "Airtel is positioned to be the mobile Internet provider of first choice for Nigerians and we are excited to be in this partnership to empower more telecom consumers."
"Airtel is also passionate about driving affordable mobile Internet service across the nooks and cranny of the country," he added.