Mtn Uganda’s Best Moments Of 2020

Despite the Corona pandemic, MTN Uganda overcame difficult conditions to log multiple notable successes. Here is our personal pick of MTN’s six greatest moments of 2020.

1. Ayoba Chatting App

MTN Uganda in partnership with SIMFY AFRICA, launched Ayoba chatting app back in July with a core aim of enabling customers to access more affordable communication.

Ayoba is an instant messaging app that is currently available to Android devices with the iOS version set to be rolled out. The biggest perks have been the ability to use the app without a data connection and to chat (app to SMS and SMS to app) with anyone regardless of whether they have the Ayoba app or not.

READ ALSO: How to Send and Receive Mobile Money Using The MTN AYOBA App

Key Features of the Ayoba App Include:

Local languages: Ayoba is available in the top local languages in the markets where the offering has launched. African languages available include Swahili, Luganda, Hausa, isiXhosa, and Yoruba .
Chat now: Users can instantly send and receive text and voice messages with any of their contacts regardless of device type or network.
Security: End-to-end encryption means that messages in a conversation cannot be read by anyone else.
Chat with everyone: Users can send SMS text messages with anyone in their contact list, regardless of whether they have Ayoba installed or not.
Channels: Users can subscribe to channels for locally relevant content across various categories.
FREE to use : It is free to use by MTN customers for up to 1GB every month, for every user.

2. MTN Kabode Smartphone

As the year draws to an end, MTN Uganda took to the stage to unveil its device loan service dubbed “pay mpola mpola” scheme where customers get a brand new smartphone and pay it in instalments.

MTN Kabode is the first device under the scheme and to be eligible for the phone, a customer must have been on the network for a duration of at least 6 months and can check qualification status by dialing 1655*2# .

The device is available in MTN service centers across the country and a customer is expected to carry their national ID, a minimum deposit of UGX45,000 to be able to get the MTN Kabode 4G smartphone. A customer will then pay UGX 20,000 per month using MTN Mobile money for a period of 6 months to complete the payment of the device.

At the moment, MTN Kabode ranks as the only available smartphone routing under the ‘pay mpola mpola’ scheme. But as per the telco’s plans, mid-range releases including TECNO, Infinix, Itel, Xiaomi, and Samsung phones will be available by 2021.

3. Showmaxx Payment Using MTN Momo

At the start of the national COVID lockdown in March, most Ugandans were suddenly confined to their homes, which had a dramatic impact on viewers choosing to stream entertainment especially on platforms like Showmax.

Showmax is one of the few internet-based Video on Demand (V.O.D) services based in Africa offering thousands of hours of Afrocentric and international TV shows, movies, series, and live sports. It’s available in over 70 countries and works on smartphones, PCs, tablets, and smart TVs.

MultiChoice Uganda entered a partnership with MTN Uganda to offer MTN MoMo as a payment method for Showmax subscriptions packages and offer the bouquet prices in local currency i.e Ugandan Shillings.

4. MTN Wakanet

Home internet solution has always been a problem in Uganda. From cost to reliability, there are myriads of reasons why home internet has never hit off.

MTN Uganda has joined the mix with Wakanet, a home internet service. The starter kit comes with a 4G user router and a 35 GB bundle that has no expiry date.

The service costs UGX 245,000 with free installation. The WAKANET bundles are; 35 GB, 75 GB and 175 GB at UGX 75,000, 150,000 and 300,000 respectively. Dial *177# to view menu options.

Just like every other home internet solution, there have been concerns about coverage and speed. So you should proceed with caution when opting for MTN Wakanet.

5. Wear For Me Campaign

MTN added its voice to the global drive to raise awareness about the importance of wearing masks with the launch of the #WearItForMe campaign across 21 African and Middle Eastern markets.

To help drive the much-needed change in behaviour, MTN committed its September 2020 marketing resources towards encouraging everyone to adopt wearing masks so as to save lives.

It was a campaign of the moment but highly helpful, especially during this festive season. It’s important to remember that wearing a mask correctly is something each one of us can do to protect ourselves and our loved ones.

6. Zero Rated Access to Educational Websites

The term new normal has been thrown around so much this year and it’s no different when it comes to education. Many parents ever since the outset of lockdown and the pandemic took to the internet to look for avenues to keep their children busy and sharp as they wait for schools to resume.

MTN Uganda zero-rated lots of educational websites to help parents during the lockdown.

The following zero-rated educational websites can be accessed even without an active internet connection over the MTN network:

Tell us in the comment section your biggest highlights or moments of MTN Uganda in 2020 if there is anything we missed.

Solomon Obwot is a tech writer based in Kampala, Uganda, with extensive experience in the local tech startup ecosystem. He covers the latest news and analysis on consumer tech, writes in-depth smartphone reviews, and conducts insightful interviews with industry experts. Solomon is also a passionate podcaster, sharing his knowledge and engaging in discussions about Africa’s rapidly growing tech landscape. Send emails to [email protected]

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Talkio Mobile , Uganda’s newest telecommunications service provider, is excited to announce a groundbreaking partnership with Banana Life Investments, a leading chain of mobile phone and retail shops. This strategic alliance aims to bring Talkio’s innovative telecom services closer to Ugandans.

This collaboration will leverage Banana Life Investments’ extensive retail network of 26 stores strategically located across Uganda in major malls, towns, and cities to provide customers with unparalleled convenience. Through this partnership, Talkio Mobile will offer its full suite of services, including SIM cards, airtime, and exclusive product offerings at any Banana Life Investment location.

This partnership is more than a business initiative—it’s a shared commitment to transforming lives. By integrating Talkio Mobile’s forward-thinking services & nationwide reach with Banana Life Investments’ retail footprint, the two brands are setting a new standard for customer convenience and inclusivity.

READ ALSO: 5 Things You Need to Know About Talkio Mobile: New Telecom Company in Uganda

“This partnership aligns perfectly with our mission of connecting Ugandans to innovative and transformative telecom solutions,” said Vianne Allan Ahura, CEO of Talkio Mobile. “By leveraging Banana Life Investments’ trusted presence and nationwide footprint, we are not only expanding our agent network but also bringing our services closer to the communities we serve. This collaboration ensures that our online customers can now enjoy a seamless offline experience right at their doorstep. Together, we are empowering Ugandans with the tools they need to stay connected, grow their businesses, and unlock new opportunities.”

Solomon Ssemuyaba, the assistant general manager at Banana Life Investments, echoed this sentiment: “We are proud to join hands with Talkio Mobile to deliver innovative, customer-centric solutions. This partnership represents our shared vision of fostering a connected future for Uganda. Together, we are redefining what convenience and accessibility mean for our customers.”

The partnership goes beyond retail distribution, introducing joint initiatives aimed at value addition and personalized service. Customers can expect seamless access to:

SIM Card Sales : Available at all Banana Life Investments locations.
Talkio phone number bookings : Book your preferred Talkio number at any Banana Life Investments location.
Airtime Services : Recharge easily through in-store purchases.
Customer Support : Friendly and knowledgeable staff trained to assist with Talkio Mobile products and services.

Additionally, the two companies plan to launch promotional campaigns and expand services to even more locations, ensuring no Ugandan is left behind in the digital transformation.

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The Mobile World Congress (MWC) Barcelona , the world’s largest exhibition for the mobile industry, has just concluded. This annual event gathers leading technology brands to unveil groundbreaking mobile, AI, and digital solutions innovations. At MWC 2025, TECNO showcased a range of AI-driven products, reinforcing its commitment to cutting-edge technology.

The key launches included:

CAMON 40 Series – AI-powered smartphones with One-Tap FlashSnap and advanced mobile imaging features.
MEGABOOK S14 – The world’s lightest 14-inch OLED laptop, featuring AI-enhanced multitasking and Snapdragon® X Elite.
MEGABOOK T14 Air & K15S – Lightweight ultrabooks with AI capabilities and extended battery life.
TECNO AI Glasses Series – Smart eyewear integrating AI imaging, translation, and AR display.

Jan Stryjak, Associate Director at Counterpoint Research, shared, “In the past year, we have observed significant advancements in the field of AI. AI will continue to drive transformative changes in our daily lives. In this critical period for the economic development of emerging markets, TECNO’s AI technologies are unlocking potential for diverse needs.”

“The application of AI technologies is crucial and urgent in emerging markets. We’re committed to bridging the digital gap between emerging and mature markets,” said TECNO CMO, Laury Bai. “TECNO is taking a practical approach to make AI more accessible, ensuring users in emerging markets can access AI and cutting-edge technologies.”

Laury Bai, TECNO CMO

Driven by its commitment, TECNO has forged a robust partnership with MediaTek, establishing a joint AI laboratory dedicated to accelerating advancements in AI. At the event, James Chen, Vice President of Product and Technology Marketing at MediaTek, emphasized, “The synergistic R&D efforts between TECNO and MediaTek are set to democratize AI technology. Our collaboration powers a seamless, interconnected AI experience, bringing users a future of truly connected intelligence.”

James Chen, Vice President, Product and Technology Marketing at MediaTek

CAMON 40 Series Powered by AI One-Tap FlashSnap Revolutionizes Smartphone Snapshot Photography

TECNO’s Global Product Launch Officer, Olivier Mas, officially unveiled TECNO’s next-generation AI-driven products. Attendees at TECNO’s launch event witnessed the highly anticipated debut of TECNO’s new CAMON 40 Series, a device that embodies TECNO’s legacy of excellence in mobile imaging. Featuring One-Tap FlashSnap Mode and TECNO AI, the series sets a new benchmark in smartphone photography, delivering exceptional snapshot capabilities and AI-enhanced user experiences.

Olivier Mas, TECNO Global Product Launch Officer

The CAMON 40 Series exemplifies a commitment to innovation that transcends hardware and software, extending into strategic partnerships that deliver cutting-edge AI solutions to emerging markets. Matt Waldbusser, Managing Director of Global Solutions and Consumer AI at Google Cloud, remarked, “Our collaboration with TECNO on the CAMON 40 Series is a standout example. Leveraging Google Cloud’s capabilities, we’ve introduced groundbreaking features such as Ask Ella, AI Image Generator, AI Writing, and AI Translate. I am particularly impressed by the industry-leading and competitive edge of some of these innovations. For instance, TECNO’s AI supports text translation in 136 languages, voice translation in 44 languages, and photo translation in 51 languages. We are excited to further strengthen our partnership with TECNO, unlocking limitless potential to bring advanced yet practical AI capabilities to emerging markets in a convenient and secure manner.”

Matt Waldbusser, Managing Director of Global Solutions and Consumer AI at Google Cloud

The CAMON 40 Series’ innovative One-Tap FlashSnap leverages AI to enhance imaging capabilities, revolutionizing mobile photography. AI optimizes camera startup and continuous shooting for instant captures, while AI-powered multi-frame processing intelligently reduces noise and enhances details, delivering sharper, more refined images. Additionally, the BestMoment algorithm analyzes motion patterns, automatically selecting the optimal frames for precise, high-quality shots in dynamic scenarios, ensuring users an unparalleled mobile imaging experience.

TECNO CAMON 40 Demonstrates the Cutting-Edge FlashSnap Capability

To delve deeper into the imaging prowess of the CAMON 40 Series, TECNO invited Frédéric Guichard, CEO of DXOMARK, to share the image performance of CAMON 40 Pro. Frédéric highlighted, “The CAMON 40 Pro 5G has demonstrated exceptional imaging and performance capabilities in our rigorous evaluations. We’ve been particularly impressed with photo performance being the best for devices under 600$, and the 1st eligible device to our Smart Choice Label.”

Onsite photo of Frédéric Guichard, CEO of DXOMARK

Beyond its advanced rapid-capture functionality, the integration of TECNO AI further enhances the device’s capabilities. Intelligent imaging, a 360° AI Call Assistant, and productivity tools elevate creativity and efficiency. Powered by MediaTek’s latest chipsets, the series ensures smooth performance, fast processing, and extended battery life. With a sleek, durable, and water-resistant design, it seamlessly blends style with practicality for modern users.

MEGABOOK S14, the World’s Lightest 14-inch OLED Laptop, Inspires Creators and Game Lovers

The MEGABOOK S14 is TECNO’s first OLED laptop and the industry’s lightest 14-inch OLED laptop, featuring a 2.8K OLED display and incredibly weighing only 899g (31.7oz). The laptop is equipped with the outstanding power of the Snapdragon® X Elite compute platform, the flagship chipset for AI PCs from Qualcomm Technologies, and integrates TECNO’s world’s first self-developed edge-side large-scale AI model, to achieve AI-enhanced multitasking.

World’s Lightest 14-inch Laptop MEGABOOK S14

Specifically designed for next-gen AI productivity, TECNO AI enhances the Ella AI Assistant, AI-powered PPT generation, AI-driven image search, smart albums, and offline meeting transcription with multilingual support. The External Graphics Dock, equipped with a powerful NVIDIA graphic card, delivers scalable, high-performance capabilities for design, gaming, and content creation. The laptop’s 2.8K OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate ensures exceptional visuals, while DTS:X Ultra dual 2W speakers, Wi-Fi 6E, fingerprint login, and PC Manager optimize connectivity and user experience.

TECNO’s strategic partnership with Qualcomm Technologies was a highlight of the TECNO AI Ecosystem Product Launch event, demonstrating a shared vision for the future of AI PCs. Kedar Kondap, SVP & GM of Compute and Gaming at Qualcomm, took the stage to discuss the integration of Qualcomm’s cutting-edge PC chipset into the new MEGABOOK S14 laptop, underscoring TECNO’s commitment to delivering high-performance computing solutions.

Kedar Kondap, SVP & GM of Compute and Gaming at Qualcomm

In addition, TECNO also introduced several standout new products. The featherlight 999g (35.2oz) ultrabook MEGABOOK T14 Air, features high-speed storage and LPDDR5 memory, while the ultra-thin, all-metal MEGABOOK K15S, equipped with a powerful 70Wh battery and supported by a 65W PD GaN charger, offers a smarter and more long-lasting user experience. Both devices are empowered by TECNO AI with advanced AI capabilities such as AI Album and AI Voice Assistant, making them perfect companions for all aspects of life.

The Next Game-Changing Tech Innovation: See the World with the TECNO AI Glasses Series

TECNO’s new AI Glasses Series also took center stage with the introduction of TECNO AI Glasses Pro and TECNO AI Glasses, reimagining eyewear with cutting-edge imaging, intelligent interactions, and a sleek aesthetic. The TECNO AI Glasses feature an aviator design, while the Pro model showcases a browline style, both embodying timeless elegance and modern fashion.

TECNO AI Glasses Redefine the Way People See the Future

Equipped with a 50MP high-definition camera, the series integrates an OV50D sensor, a 100° ultra-wide-angle custom lens, and an AI ISP imaging chip, forming a mobile-grade imaging system. This system lets users capture stunning, high-resolution photos with advanced AI noise reduction and HDR capabilities. With real-time translation supporting over 100 languages, TECNO AI’s Ella empowers accurate translation even for less common languages, as well as voice control, AI-powered object recognition, and intelligent information summaries for ultimate convenience.

Additionally, the AI Glasses Pro features a MicroLED display with 7th-gen resin waveguide technology, offering a 30° field of view, over 1,500 nits of brightness AR display, and a lightweight, ultra-thin design. The AR display allows users to effortlessly enjoy features like translation display, navigation, information prompts, and teleprompting.

Equipped with a 250mAh battery, these glasses offer over 11 hours of music playback and 8 hours of mixed use with just 30 minutes of charging. An advanced ultra-linear speaker, bass enhancement, and spatial sound deliver an immersive audio experience, while Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.4 ensure seamless connectivity.

With these innovative launches, TECNO is setting new standards in mobile imaging and AI-enhanced technology, shaping a more connected and empowered future for consumers in emerging markets. Once again, TECNO has showcased its cutting-edge innovation on the global stage at MWC. With the brand essence of “Stop at Nothing”, TECNO’s relentless pursuit of innovation is making AI-powered technology more accessible, allowing consumers to experience the future ahead of time.

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1. Ayoba Chatting App#

Key Features of the Ayoba App Include:#

2. MTN Kabode Smartphone#

3. Showmaxx Payment Using MTN Momo#

4. MTN Wakanet#

5. Wear For Me Campaign#

6. Zero Rated Access to Educational Websites#

MEGABOOK S14, the World’s Lightest 14-inch OLED Laptop, Inspires Creators and Game Lovers#

The Next Game-Changing Tech Innovation: See the World with the TECNO AI Glasses Series#

1. Ayoba Chatting App

Key Features of the Ayoba App Include:

2. MTN Kabode Smartphone

3. Showmaxx Payment Using MTN Momo

4. MTN Wakanet

5. Wear For Me Campaign

6. Zero Rated Access to Educational Websites

MEGABOOK S14, the World’s Lightest 14-inch OLED Laptop, Inspires Creators and Game Lovers

The Next Game-Changing Tech Innovation: See the World with the TECNO AI Glasses Series