The Webbox, developed for consumers in emerging markets to bridge the digital divide provides affordable, ready internet access at home or in the workplace. The unique device is suitable for businesses as it aids in training, business presentations among other data services.
The introduction of the Webbox is Vodafone’s response to the use of television as a medium to deliver internet services to Ghanaians including those in the rural communities who have access to TV but not computers and Lap Tops and who are within the Vodafone network coverage areas. Vodafone has therefore satisfied its customers needs by providing an innovative all-in one product with great value that also offers the family an exciting experience due to its use on a standard TV set .
The Web box allows the customer to navigate easily between the core services: Opera Mini 5.1 internet access; SMS and email messaging; internet search and media services including FM radio and a photo and video gallery, as well as video and music players.
The Opera Mini browser runs over the 2.5G and EDGE mobile networks, compressing data by around 90% and so serving fast-loading internet pages. The browser homepage comes with bookmarks such as news, sport and social networking sites as well as locally relevant apps such as a job search and application service. In addition, the portal comes with some games, a dictionary and a basic text editor.
Speaking at the exclusive launch of the product, Carmen Bruce-Annan, Head of Corporate Communications at Vodafone remarked that, “What we are offering our consumers is a very versatile and affordable product.
It features an extensive archive of materials for the benefit of Ghanaians and, bringing the internet to the TV- be it at home for the family, in schools for education or in small businesses to assist local economic growth. This is a product that offers endless opportunities and delivers our brand promise of empowering our consumers to reach their full potential. ”
Vodafone Ghana has today started selling the Webbox through its retail stores across the country. The Webbox is a Vodafone concept and design, and is developed and manufactured exclusively for Vodafone with partner ZTE.