Sud Africa : January 20, 2009

For many years, South African telecommunications consumers have been eagerly waiting in anticipation for the arrival of a Second Network Operator or SNO. The SNO would effectively provide a choice for consumers from the traditional monopoly, Telkom. Well, after much discussion, political haggling and prayers, it seems the SNO, Neotel, will begin operations in early 2009 after focusing much of its efforts on getting their infrastructure ready.

The main service to be provided by Neotel is NeoFlex Voice Service. This service is powered by Neotel’s next generation network bringing traditional crystal clear voice quality over a single Fixed Wireless Terminal or FWT.

Customers will be supplied with a voice solution that is flexible having high levels of customization and minimal downtime. Aside from predicted improvement in service, the other benefit will include a cost savings over comparable Telkom service. According to a recent study of Neotel and Telkom per second charges, Neotel was found most cost-effective to all surveyed destinations. Neotel calls are also billed in per second increments while Telkom has a minimum charge for any designation. If you desire per second billing with Telkom, you need to apply for a special rate package which requires payment in advance.

Another advantage of the Neotel connections is that they are totally wireless, thus not having customers encountering problems such as theft, weather conditions or deterioration of equipment. There will be no waiting period for installation of network upgrade from the SNO as long as you fall within Neotel’s coverage area. The Neotel device needed to commence service can be used on most existing telecommunications equipment.

Indications are that hunting facilities between Telkom and Neotel lines as well as telephone number portability will be available during the first quarter of 2009. No doubt, once operational, the migration of consumers from Telkom to Neotel is expected to be massive.