U2opia Mobile announced the launch its sponsored data platform Fonepass. The platform was launched in collaboration with telecom operator MTN in Rwanda.
The platform enables users to access e-commerce services on Kaymu, stay connected on Binu, browse food options from Hello food, get safer motorcycle taxis from Safemoto, get travel advisory tips from Tripadvisor and unlock knowledge and opportunities with educational material on Library for all . Once users logs on, they can choose the app they want to access and start engaging and get rewarded for their usage.
Fonepass integrates the sponsored data functionality into existing applications and mobile websites across mobile devices and operating systems, saving time and resources for building and supporting sponsored data-based offers. The platform then allows content providers and carriers to pay the cost of data use that would otherwise impact a subscriber’s monthly data plan. For the operator, this offers new revenues streams from subscribers, increasing partnership opportunities with content providers for entirely new sources of “non-access” revenue and also enables their subscriber’s greater value while monetizing its mobile data network. The platform gives Content providers the potential to enjoy increased customer traffic, at a lower the cost of sales and advertising. Subscribers can access more mobile data through sponsorships and enjoy the world of mobile data.
“With Internet access and smartphones now becoming more accessible in the Rwandan market, consumers now have access to literacy apps, utility apps, consumer centric services and the convenience of ecommerce that have been long enjoyed in developed markets. We are sure this partnership with U2opia mobile will enable us to roll out more services to our subscriber base and help customers enjoy services while we enrich their lives. This is an exciting new opportunity for us and most importantly, for our customers,“ said Chief Marketing Officer of MTN Rwanda, Yvonne Manzi Makolo.
Talking about the progression of U2opia Mobile, Sandeep Ganguly, CEO, U2opia Mobile said, “U2opia Mobile is at the center of mobile data revolution, and we aim to launch technology that drives connectivity, fuels transformation and helps business grow to innovate. After successfully connecting millions of users across the globe on USSD, we are now launching our sponsored data platform as a step towards making connectivity a reality and ensuring users have an easy and affordable access to enriched experiences over mobile data. We understand the importance of connectivity and continue to collaborate with global internet giants and telecom carriers to realize this to help every user be a part of the real world.“Users in emerging markets are increasingly demanding data connectivity but the unavailability and exorbitant costs continues to leave billions of mobile users, in information darkness. U2opia Mobile‘s sponsored data platform, Fonepass, is working with operators and Local- Global apps across geographies, to ensure data is more accessible and affordable via our patented solution. Our partnership is a step in the direction to enrich lives of MTN subscribers. Additionally, Fonepass also enables operators and content providers, alike, to capture the revenue from data that they are missing out.“
