Fury As Econet Replaces SmartBiz With More Expensive SmartSuite Options

Fury As Econet Replaces SmartBiz With More Expensive SmartSuite Options

Econet Wireless Zimbabwe officially replaces the much-loved SmartBiz data bundle with new ’Fixed Wireless Access’ data packages called SmartSuite. This new suite of offerings is set to completely replace the older SmartBiz service, providing a more tailored and comprehensive range of options for both individual and business customers nationwide.

SmartSuite is comprised of six distinct plans, each engineered to cater to a specific segment of the market. Ranging from the entry-level ‘SmartLite’ plan with 50GB for light users, all the way to the powerhouse ‘SmartPro’ package boasting 800GB for established small and medium enterprises, the new structure promises unparalleled choice.

Econet Replaces SmartBiz With More Expensive SmartSuite Options

The array of new options is designed to ensure no customer is left behind. Between the Lite and Pro tiers, users can select from ‘SmartPlus’ (75GB) for families, ‘SmartMax’ (100GB) for larger households and freelancers, ‘SmartFlex’ (200GB) for small offices requiring scalability, and ‘SmartUltra’ (400GB) for heavy multi-user environments and growing SMEs.

This launch follows a notice sent to existing SmartBiz customers last month, informing them of the impending transition to a more versatile product line. The migration process has been simplified for current users.

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Econet Replaces SmartBiz With More Expensive SmartSuite Options-Image Source@Facebook(Econet Zimbabwe)
Econet Replaces SmartBiz With More Expensive SmartSuite Options-Image Source@Facebook(Econet Zimbabwe)

“Customers registered to the old SmartBiz service and who already have a CPE (customer premises equipment), can simply dial *143, choose a package of their choice and credit their new SmartSuite package,” the company confirmed.

However, this new plan is expensive compared to the previous plan that cost $45 for unlimited monthly data that was capped at 1terabyte.

Smartsuite To Enhance Performance Through Geo-Locking

A key feature of the new SmartSuite service is the implementation of ‘geo-locking’ technology. This means the data service is restricted to the customer’s registered geographical location, a measure implemented using the CPE router. The company explains that this is not a limitation but a benefit.

This approach ensures customers get the best possible usage experience while enabling service providers, such as telcos and Internet Service Providers (ISPs), to ringfence critical resources, including bandwidth, guaranteeing stable and optimised performance for all users within their network coverage area.

The new packages are available for purchase through Econet’s extensive network of shops nationwide. While new subscribers will need to acquire a new SmartSuite SIM and a compatible CPE router, the company is allowing flexibility.

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“Customers will be free to use their existing CPEs, or to purchase CPEs anywhere elsewhere, as long as they were compatible with Econet’s SmartSuite product specifications,” a notice clarified.

Zimbabweans React

Despite Econet’s promises that these new packages are better, Zimbabweans are furious and feel cheated. Below are some of te omments on social media:

@Nkosilathi Thembelami Mbele

Does econet Zimbabwe have a beef with money,I can tell u for a fact that in my community people are coming together to buy starlink kits ,as I speak i am paying 10 bucks for unlimited WiFi, with my whole family and friends connected

@George Papaya

Haa apa matigura kunorira we were faithfully supporting you but these data prices are unreasonable and the change is just too much

@Robert Baba Malala Masvaure

You guys are thieves

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