NetOne Introduces 1GB Bundle for $1

Zimbabwe’s second-largest mobile network operator, NetOne, has made a significant move towards affordable internet access. The company has launched a new 1GB data bundle priced at just $1. While this is fantastic news for data-hungry users, there’s a catch: the bundle is only valid until midnight on the day of purchase. To truly maximize your data, you'd need to buy early in the morning.

This offering is an improvement over NetOne's previous hourly bundles, but some subscribers argue that a 24-hour validity period would have been far more beneficial. Nevertheless, it provides a more flexible and cost-effective option compared to what was previously available.

Here’s how to get the 1GB for $1:

• Dial *379# on your mobile phone.
• Select 'USD BUNDLES' from the menu.
• Choose the 'PROMOTION' option.
• Select the 'Dollar Data Promotion' category.
• Pick 'VALUE BUNDLE (1GB) $1'.

Is It Worth It?

This deal shines if you live in an area with reliable NetOne internet speeds. As we've observed, network performance can vary significantly from location to location, so make sure to check how well NetOne works in your area before relying on this bundle for heavy usage.

Is Starlink's Influence Felt?

Interestingly, this 1GB bundle marks NetOne’s first major response since the arrival of Starlink in Zimbabwe. Many expected local internet service providers (ISPs) to start reducing data prices or introducing unlimited data options to remain competitive. While Starlink has indeed shaken up the market, the intensity of its initial impact has lessened due to reaching capacity in Harare and surrounding areas.

That said, NetOne still lags behind rival Econet, which offers unlimited internet packages. Many subscribers have been eagerly waiting for NetOne to introduce something similar, but, so far, there’s no sign of that happening.

Affordable Health with OneHealthcare

In addition to the new data bundle, NetOne has also introduced a budget-friendly health insurance package called OneHealthcare. For just $1 per month, subscribers are entitled to a monthly visit to a General Practitioner (GP), along with $30 worth of medication. However, it’s important to note that this coverage does not include chronic conditions.

Subscribers can add unlimited dependents at $1 each. This could be a game-changer, especially since many basic medications for non-chronic conditions, like painkillers, fall well within the $30 allowance. However, there is a three-month waiting period before benefits kick in.

You can sign up for OneHealthcare by dialing *501# on your mobile phone.

A Step in the Right Direction

Both of these initiatives reflect NetOne's efforts to provide more value to its subscribers, especially at a time when competition in the telecommunications and internet sectors is fierce. However, with the ever-present demand for affordable and unlimited internet, we’ll be watching closely to see how NetOne adapts and evolves.