The headache of getting a cellphone contract just got a little of bit of remedy with the launch of Mondo — an online mobi shop in full partnership with cellular network giant Vodacom.
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Promising to end the days of waiting in long queues, customers can purchase everything from cellphone to data contracts as well as various mobile devices on generic Vodacom deals or exclusive Mondo deals.
Mondo’s real kicker is that it offers SIM-only contracts which has multiple benefits. SIM-only is great for people who already own a phone, and in a country like South Africa it makes a lot of sense. South Africa reportedly had 59-million cellphones in use in 2011, roughly 117.6% of the population. The availability of SIM-only contracts provides a means to rectify the number disparity of phones to population by allowing families and friends to pass down handsets with little trouble.
SIM-only also means a huge-saving margin on deals because so much of the cost of a traditional contract goes towards paying off the phone. Often there are cheaper rates on calls and texts with SIM-only too.
All SIM-cards are RICA’ed by Vodacom, and Mondo operates as the sales channel. Therefore all standard Vodacom delivery and RICA processes apply. Accepting a Mondo deal is effectively the same thing as accepting the terms of a Vodacom contract.
Mondo customers can request a purchase on the site or simply inquire about information on a deal, after which a consultant will contact them to assist or complete the sale, including delivery of the product. No private information is entered online except for a name and phone number for the consultant to contact.
Most Vodacom Top Up deals are currently available through the site from the Top Up 49 to Top Up 199 as well as various Open Line Contracts. Customers can also purchase upgrades on the site and even get contracts with funeral cover included.
Mondo is an approved trade partner with Vodacom and there are no plans to extend to other networks.
