In many counties and regions around the globe, the average number of devices and connections per person has almost doubled between 2018 and 2023 . This means that the average person has more than one device that needs to be connected to the internet.

Of course, home internet has seen a similar increase, which takes care of the need for the most part, but what about when you have or need to be out and about? Well, modern smartphones allow you to easily tether your device’s connection and use that to connect your other devices like laptops and tablets to the internet.

However, this puts unnecessary strain on your smartphone, draining its battery, and sometimes heating it up hence increasing the wear and tear. More on that in our explainer here. For this, you need a Mi-Fi or a portable, mobile hotspot device.

Related:

  • The best place to position your MiFi Router for better performance and signal strength
  • A gentle guide to home networking: Understanding MiFi, Routers, Access Points and Switches
  • The Best MiFis for Homes and Offices in Nigeria

But which portable router is right for you if you’d like to use Safaricom? Luckily, Safaricom, like many carriers in Kenya and the rest of the world really, uses GSM and not CDMA that is common in parts of Europe and the US. As such, most MiFi devices in the market will probably work on Safaricom.

But we gotta have favorites and in this post, we look at 5 solid choices should you be in the market for a MiFi.

First up is this simple, unassuming device from perhaps one of the most trusted and respected brands in the networking market. TP-Link makes some of the best networking equipment for enterprises and corporates, and solid options for home internet as well.

It only makes sense for them to make one of the best MiFi we’ve used to date. The TP-Link M-7200 is a 4G portable hotspot device that is battery-powered and supports almost all GSM carriers, including Safaricom. Here’s a breakdown of the bands that it supports.

  • 4G : FDD-LTE B1/B3/B7/B8/B20 (2100/1800/2600/900/800MHz)
  • TDD-LTE B38/B40/B41 (2600/2300/2500MHz)
  • 3G : DC-HSPA+/HSPA+/HSPA/UMTS B1/B8 (2100/900MHz) Data Rates: DL: 150Mbps, UL: 50Mbps
Which is the best Mi - 1

This device is not carrier-locked and as such, you can use it on any carrier, not just Safaricom. it supports up to 10 devices so you can share your connection with all your friends and all their devices. The battery on this device is rated at 8 hours although, like in most cases, your mileage might vary depending on your usage.

The TP-Link M-7200 4G portable WiFi goes for KES 7,452 on Sky Garden but you might get it for cheaper in physical stores and electronic shops.

Related:

  • How a MiFi really works, why and how to buy one
  • 192.168.1.1 and Other Common WiFi Router or MiFi Admin IP Addresses
  • The MTN 2-in-1 MiFi and Power bank is a great upgrade, but misses just one feature to make it perfect

TECNO TR118 Mi-Fi

TECNO is of the few brands under the Chinese Transsion company. This brand is behind some of the most popular device lineups in this and many other African markets like the Tecno Camon series, and the Zero line of devices.

This is yet another no-brainer device. A phone maker that kills it in the phone market will also do well in the portable hotspot market and the TECNO Mi-Fi is no different.

Which is the best Mi - 2

The TECNO MiFi has been in the market for a hot minute, seeing little to no upgrades in the period because it has been working and working well.

You can get the TECNO MiFi in local stores and on e-commerce sites like Sky Garden, Jumia, and Masoko for around Ksh. 5600 subject to availability. At the time of writing, only a few stores still had these devices in stock.

Huawei E5576 4G

The Huawei E5576 4G is another MiFi that works on Safaricom. This also comes with a micro-USB port that is used for charging and connection to PCs. Below is the Huawei E5576 4G specs.

  • Network : LTE CAT4
  • Time : 6H, standby time:350H 2.4G 802.11b/g/n 1*1, support 16 user
  • Applicable Network : LTE/UMTS
  • 4G Transmission Rate: 150 Mbps/50 Mbps
  • Display : 2LED(Signal/Battery)
  • WIFI Frequency Band: 2.4 GHz, 150 Mbps
  • Battery : 3.8V, 1500 mAh
Which is the best Mi - 3

The Huawei E5576 4G is available in various stores, both online and offline for around KES 7400. There are also a lot of refurbished units in the market and these can be had for as little as KES 4500 although you might want to buy these in person so you can inspect the state of the product.

There are also carrier-locked variants of this model being sold on Masoko. Be sure you only need Safaricom before dropping your money on those units. Of course, those are cheaper than the un-carriered ones.

BVOT M88 4G MiFi

Another MiFi that can be used on Safaricom is one from a little-known company, BVOT. This is a no-frills gadget that does its job and does it well.

Below are the key specs for this device.

  • Model : M88
  • Brand : Bvot
  • Supported Networks : 4G, 5G LTE
  • Category : Cat4 LTE
  • Working time : 6 hour
  • Connection Speed : Up to 150Mbps
  • Number of Supported Wifi Devices : 10
  • Battery : 1500mAH
Which is the best Mi - 4

It comes with a micro-USB port for charging and tethering to your PC or other smart devices. The BVOT M88 is available across various stores and goes for between Ksh. 3300 and Ksh 3800 depending on the outlet you get it from.

For the price, this should be an easy recommendation for anyone in the market for a MiFi, not just for one that works on Safaricom. The healthy selection of supported 4G Bands is an added advantage if the price alone wasn’t enough.

Conclusion

MiFis seem to be a dying breed in the tech industry as our smartphones are pretty capable to handle many tasks that we’d need other devices for while we’re out and about. However, for the hardcore users who need to be connected while out in the wilderness. I am talking Engineers, Architects, and Statisticians, MiFis still offer a lot of value.

It is sad that we haven’t seen as much excitement and activity in this segment. Here’s to hoping that we’ll see more interest as 5G rolls out and as we wait for the prices for 5G devices to come down a little.

I’m a tech enthusiast and digital explorer based in Kenya passionate about Android, Linux, and the world of custom ROMs. I love tinkering with devices to craft personalized, optimized experiences. When I’m not deep in code or tweaking gadgets, you’ll find me immersed in science fiction, philosophy, or writing about the ever-evolving tech landscape from an African perspective.

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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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