Ultra affordable 4G phones power South Africa’s mobile betting and gaming boom
Budget smartphones unlock digital access for many ahead of 2G and 3G shutdown in the country.
South Africa.- Telecom giants Vodacom and MTN are unleashing ultra-budget 4G smartphones priced under R100 ($5.40), putting affordable connectivity into the hands of thousands and supercharging South Africa’s mobile-first entertainment landscape.
In an increasingly digital world, these compact handsets are proving to be game changers, driving rapid growth in mobile gaming, sports betting and igaming nationwide.
Through targeted subsidised pricing promotions, Vodacom and MTN are offering the 4G smartphones, with reliable speeds of up to 40 Mbps, for as little as R67 ($3.60) and R99 ($5.35) respectively to selected prepaid customers.
Recent industry reports indicate that smartphone access in South Africa is widespread, with adult ownership projected to exceed 90 per cent in 2025, supporting growing use for gaming, mobile betting and other digital entertainment. Market data reports indicate South Africa’s gaming market is booming, with revenues expected to surpass $1.8bn by the end of 2025, driven largely by mobile gaming.
Grand View Research projects South Africa’s online gambling market to reach $2.66bn by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 10.8 per cent, driven in part by expanding access to low-cost 4G devices now costing less than R100 ($5.40).
Cheap 4G phones power digital shift
Vodacom’s subsidised promotion enables selected prepaid users still on 2G to upgrade to the 4G-enabled Smart Kicka 6 for just R67 ($3.60). The offer includes a 20 GB data bundle worth R149 ($8), suitable for betting apps, esports streaming and lightweight casino games. Vodacom said this is a major step forward.
“Millions of South Africans still rely on 2G devices. By making affordable 4G smartphones available, Vodacom is helping more people fully take part in the digital economy,” said Vodacom’s Chief Enterprise Business Officer, Rishaad Tayob, according to a press release.
MTN’s R99 ($5.35) initiative is rolling out Itel smartphones in three phases, aiming to reach over 1.1 million customers by the end of 2026. MTN said the first phase has kicked off with the distribution of 5,000 Itel AC51 devices to selected users based on usage and spending patterns.
“At MTN we are committed to going the extra mile to ensure no one is left behind in the digital era. As the country transitions to 4G and 5G it is vital to proactively connect as many South Africans as possible,” said MTN South Africa CEO Charles Molapisi.
The urgency is real as cut-off dates approach. South Africa will switch off its 2G and 3G networks by December 2027. Without affordable 4G devices, millions risk losing reliable mobile connectivity.
Vodacom and MTN’s efforts to provide budget-friendly smartphones come at a crucial moment and can make a significant difference. With many South Africans trying to cut costs, these economical smartphones deliver reliable apps, mobile wallet support and 4G speeds of up to 40 Mbps. This boosts usage and revenue for mobile betting, igaming and related platforms.
