Drop in SMS Prices: From 9 Cents to 0.26 Cents for WhatsApp Messages in Zimbabwe. What Happened to Voice Calls?
In Zimbabwe, a $1 weekly bundle now offers practically unlimited WhatsApp texts for a week, marking a significant shift in the nation's communication habits. This change comes as mobile operators, led by Econet, have adjusted their pricing strategies to accommodate the growing popularity of the messaging app.
Initially, mobile operators charged exorbitant fees for SMS messages, even as WhatsApp gained traction. However, today, Econet charges just $2.90 for 1,100 SMSes - a 97.11% reduction from 2011 prices, when a single 160-character SMS cost 9 cents.
The reason for the late adoption of affordable WhatsApp packages in Zimbabwe remains unclear. Despite the app's growing popularity, there are no relevant records to explain why mobile operators were slow to adjust their prices.
WhatsApp has become the primary internet usage for most people in Zimbabwe, driven by economic challenges. Interestingly, in the U.S., where mobile operator-based messaging services dominate, SMS usage remains relatively high.
However, WhatsApp calls cannot be made using a WhatsApp bundle; users must purchase general data bundles. A $1 WhatsApp bundle provides approximately 384 minutes of WhatsApp calls. In contrast, a $1 weekly voice bundle offers only 40 minutes of regular calls and 50 SMS messages.
Econet, Zimbabwe's largest operator, has restricted WhatsApp calls as part of a strategy to safeguard voice revenue for as long as possible. For Econet users calling other Econet users, a WhatsApp call would last 192 minutes.
The question remains whether Econet should focus on restricting WhatsApp calls or making traditional voice calls more competitive in price. The success of Econet's approach is uncertain and will only be determined by time.
WhatsApp partnered with mobile operators worldwide to promote internet adoption. This partnership has undoubtedly contributed to the app's global success and its significant impact on Zimbabwe's communication landscape.
Despite the convenience of WhatsApp, having WiFi at home remains a luxury in Zimbabwe. The affordability of the $1 weekly WhatsApp bundle is considered a privilege in a country where economic challenges persist.
In conclusion, the rise of WhatsApp in Zimbabwe has disrupted traditional communication methods, leading to a shift in pricing strategies by mobile operators. The future of voice calls and the long-term impact of these changes remain to be seen.
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