Mtn Vs Airtel Uganda: Which One Is Truly The Smartphone Network?

Both you and us knew this was coming. The dark ages of Kabiriti feature phones that only allowed you to text and call are behind us. Now, phones can do all sorts of things; Tweet, Facebook, call, watch movies, listen to music, get directions or even watch over your cat at home.

But smartphones also demand smart networks. Networks that won’t send your tweet after 5 minutes, or buffer your Youtube videos.

There are 6 mobile networks in Uganda currently both supporting both voice and data. In a clever campaign, Airtel Uganda started promoting itself as the “Smartphone network”. This obviously caught our attention as it did yours maybe. But MTN Uganda has equally been pushing boundaries in mobile technology investing vast amounts of money in building robust infrastructure. We are talking 14 billion shillings to deploy its 4G LTE network across 75 sites country-wide. Arguably MTN now has the widest 4G LTE network in Uganda. So it boils down to two networks; MTN vs Airtel.

So the cards are laid out. Marketing hype aside, which of the two networks truly qualifies to be the “smartphone network”?

Mobile data network standards

Mobile networks in Uganda have come a long way. I remember browsing the internet using my Motoralla phone on MTN Uganda network using GPRS or what was commonly known as WAP. The networks however, have kept upgrading their mobile data networks to support faster data speeds and applications.

Both MTN and Airtel upgraded from 2G to 3G networks. That meant that we moved from merely 144Kbps to about 21Mbps. That’s over 140 times faster. Back then — around 2007 — this was a quantum leap. But the networks a few years later further upgraded to 3G+ which boosted speeds of up to 42Mbps – twice as fast as 3G.

However, MTN decided to even take it a step further. MTN launched it’s 4G LTE network in Uganda in 2013 which covered only some parts of Kampala. 4G LTE supports speeds of upto 100Mbps which is twice as fast as 3G Plus and 5 times as fast as 3G. This year, MTN relaunched its 4G LTE network having added more districts and sites to support 4G.

Unlike 3G, with 4G LTE speeds, you stream HD videos, play online games, download or upgrade your software without noticing any network glitches.

Airtel on the other hand is still stuck with 3G or 3G+. The mobile network thinks that your smartphone can still do fine with 3G speeds. It also means that if you have a 4G LTE smartphone on Airtel network, you can’t take advantage of its full capabilities. Your smartphone will be using 3G network instead of 4G LTE.

The winner is obvious. You simply can’t call yourself the “smartphone network” while my 4G-compatible device will all the time be using the slower 3G network. So MTN Uganda definitely beats Airtel here.

Winner is: MTN Uganda

Smartphones supported and prices

You can’t call yourself a smartphone network without having any smartphones in your stores. Fortunately both MTN and Airtel Uganda have great, well-branded shops with relatively the same experience.

Both MTN and Airtel have branded smartphones. Airtel for instance released its Airtel red smartphone that’s priced at Ugx 200,000 designed and branded Airtel. MTN Uganda has the MTN Smartpone S720i priced at Ugx 179,000 and MTN Smart 3G 620 priced at Ugx 155,000. MTN’s smartphones are slightly cheaper. However, unless you’ve a good reason, we usually don’t recommend you buying these network-locked and branded smartphones.

Now lets see how well the networks support mainstream brands like iPhone, Samsung, Microsoft Lumia, Huawei, Tecno, Alcatel.

MTN Uganda seems to still have older Microsoft devices such as the Nokia XL, Nokia X, Nokia Lumia 630, Lumia 530, Asha 210, 105 while Airtel Uganda is supporting the latest Microsoft devices such as Lumia 640XL, Lumia 730, Lumia 830, Lumia 435, Lumia 535, Lumia 1020.

If you are looking at Blackberry, Airtel seems to have dropped them all together while MTN Uganda has the blackberry Z3 priced at Ugx 650,000 and Blackberry curve 9320 priced at Ugx 450,000.

Airtel Uganda has added more Tecno devices to its catalog with smartphone such as the Tecno Phantom Z, Z mini, L7, M6 and Y4 while MTN Uganda is more bend towards the Alcatel brand. MTN Uganda has Alcatel Idol Alpha, Alcatel OT 6012-idol mini, Alcatel Pop C5, Alcatel Pop D1 which are mainly low-end smartphones.

Otherwise both MTN and Airtel Uganda have strong support for Huawei, Samsung Galaxy and Apple smartphones. However, Airtel relatively has better prices for these brands than MTN as you can see below;

As you can tell, both Airtel and MTN Uganda have a great selection of devices. Airtel slightly edges MTN Uganda on smartphone price point but MTN bounces back with 4G LTE smartphones such as Huawei Mate 7, P7, G7, iPhone 6, Galaxy S6, S6 Edge. MTN has a 4G LTE network which Airtel doesn’t have. The most recent devices are shipping with 4G LTE as a standard which will soon become the de facto mobile data standard. Therefore arming yourself with a 4G LTE smartphone from MTN not only prepares you for the future, but gives you faster data speeds.

We think where Airtel beats MTN at price, MTN compensates with great support for the faster 4G LTE devices. So we shall call it a tie.

Winner: Tie

Data packages

When it comes to mobile data packages and bundles, Airtel and MTN Uganda go toe-to-toe. One wonders whether they are simply copy-pasting each other or it’s the same team working in different companies.

Both have daily, weekly and monthly bundles whose pricing is almost the same as we showed in this comparison post. Both have 1GB overnight bundles that run from midnight to 6am. Both have social bundles or WTF(Whatsapp, Twitter, Facebook) bundles for social media enthusiasts. Both have data sharing feature which allows users to share mobile data amongst themselves. Both have blackberry services. However, both MTN and Airtel Uganda do NOT have unlimited mobile data packages! Clearly, whichever you go with, there’s really no difference when it comes to data bundles.

The winner is: Tie

The Verdict

This has been a bloody battle as we had anticipated. Marketing and sales teams of both networks seem to have telescopes on each other, so service-wise both MTN and Airtel go toe-to-toe. When it comes to actual smartphone prices, Airtel Uganda smartphone deals are simply irresistible. But if you are looking at a network that will support any smartphone and we mean any smartphone, then MTN is your choice. MTN’s 4G LTE network is backward compatible. This simply means it can support smartphones with 4G LTE, 3G and even 2G. This means the slowest to the fastest smartphones in the market. Therefore, MTN Uganda ultimately takes the crown on our smartphone network of choice in Uganda.

The overall winner is: MTN Uganda.

If you’ve any further questions, don’t be shy to ask on Dignited Answers , our interactive Q&A platform.

David Okwii is the Editor-in-Chief of Dignited.com and a seasoned tech enthusiast whose journey began in the early 2000s. He started blogging while at university, diving deep into mobile apps, smartphone reviews, and operating systems—from testing Linux distros to tweaking Windows machines. David also explores Chromebooks, experiments with Raspberry Pi projects, and brings hands-on curiosity to every review. With vast experience in Uganda’s tech ecosystem and deep knowledge of Africa’s startup landscape, he offers informed, grounded perspectives on consumer technology. When he’s not writing or tinkering, David enjoys connecting with nature and exploring the outdoors.

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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.

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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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.

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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