Datawind has partnered with Airtel Africa to provide low-cost mobile Internet access in Nigeria.
Datawind intends to offer Internet access initially bundled with its low-cost tablet computers and smartphones, followed by the launch of a device-independent application at a very affordable cost, it said in a statement.
Airtel is one of the four major network operators in Nigeria, offering 3G coverage throughout most major cities and 2G in most rural areas of the country, it added.
"Now that we've established access to this market, we can focus on expanding our distribution channels across Nigeria. We are currently in discussions with a large retail chain and an online retailer, and expect to formalise these relationships over the next few months," Datawind Chairman Raja Tuli said.
By using patented, cloud-based technology, its solution reduces bandwidth consumption by factors of over 10 to 30 times, resulting in an affordable, broadband-like Internet experience on any data network, the company 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 Nigeria Chief Commercial and Strategy Officer Ahmed Mokhles said.
