Telecom operator Orange has inked a deal with Google, which would help customers to increase access to mobile internet services across Africa and Middle East.
Orange’s mobile network and mobile expertise combined with Google’s mobile applications would offer customers the best of both partners in terms of access and content through an all-inclusive digital communication package, a statement said.
As per the deal, customers across the Orange MEA footprint will now have access to a range of online services including, content covering fashion, sport and music, as well as everyday tools such as Google Search™, YouTube and Google Maps.
Through an educational campaign, customers will be offered advice to better understand the benefits and direct value mobile internet can bring. Important information will be made accessible such as finding the nearest health clinic using Google Maps, among others.
The digital communication package has been priced starting at $40 in the region. The offer will be delivered in a phased approach and will start to roll-out across the full Orange MEA footprint in Q2 this year.
“As the first pan-Africa and Middle East mobile partnership with Google on this scale, we are able to bring direct value to our customers by offering the best access and services to ensure they get the most out of the mobile internet,” says Yves Maitre, Executive Vice President of Connected Objects and Partnerships, Orange.
Richard Turner, Director Android Partnerships for Europe, the Middle East and Africa, says: "Today, over three billion people across the world are using the internet to live better, richer lives and create opportunities for themselves and their communities. The driving force behind this growth - particularly in Africa and the Middle East - is smartphones. We are very excited to work with Orange to bring together data services, content and a high quality Android device to provide a great experience for first-time or experienced smartphone users.”
