Google and 8ta partner for free web services
Google and 8ta announced “Free Zone powered by Google” at G-South Africa in Cape Town today (13 November 2012), letting users access select Google mobile web services for free.
The two companies said that the following services are available for free from mobile phone browsers through Free Zone:
- Gmail: Users have unlimited access to Gmail from their mobile browser. If users click on a link or attachment within the e-mail they are directed to a page where they can purchase a data package.
- Google+: Users can share photos and messages with circles of family, selected friends or the public; follow updates on the things they are passionate about – from football to photography, music to news; and follow people they’re interested in.
- Google Search: Users can search the entire internet and access the first page of websites from the results for free. If they click further into a website after that, they are directed to a page where they can purchase a data package.
“Given that data can be expensive for many South Africans, the open web is only as open as it is affordable,” said Luke Mckend, country manager of Google South Africa. “Working with 8ta on this exciting trial means that we can offer Internet services at no cost to anyone with a phone.”
8ta’s senior managing executive, Amith Maharaj, said that he was really proud bring this service to market, adding that it requires flexible and cutting edge technology and billing systems to do so.
“Effectively it means that all South Africans can have access to Google Search, Google e-mail and Google social networking by simply using any 8ta SIM card on any data enabled handset, no matter how old, free of charge,” Maharaj said. “This is a big deal.”
The service is available immediately to all 8ta subscribers from their mobile phones at 8ta.com/freezone.
8ta said that users will be informed about data charges and given the option to purchase an appropriate data package should they leave Free Zone.
Free Zone will be trialled until 31 May 2013, 8ta said.
Related articles
Best data deals in South Africa
Loading ...