Kalahari.com launches gobii smartphone

22 May 2014

Kalahari.com has announced the arrival of gobii IIP and IVP dual-sim card smartphones, launching at R999 with 200MB of free Cell C data per month for the first year, thus providing internet access to more South Africans.

gobii IIP smartphone

These are one of only a few smartphones in South Africa that is dual SIM enabled, allowing users to take advantage of data packages from more than one network. The two smartphones join the gobii tablet and eReader that are bestselling products on kalahari.com. Delivery is free of charge.

Internationally awarded tech guru, Dave Duarte says this new device by kalahari.com will help satisfy the enormous demand for smartphones and could have unforeseen ripple effects as more people gain easy access to the web for the first time.

"At this price point, you can expect that the smartphone will be getting many people online for the first time and this will be their primary access point to the web. A large number of users are likely to be school kids whose parents would not otherwise be able to afford home internet access. Whether used for work or play, affordably priced smartphones will create a more publicly engaged society - with easier access to news, social media, apps and cheap communications."

"The DNA of the range has always been about delivering technology at a good price point and we are delighted to be able to add phones to this range," says Caren Genthner-Kappesz, CEO of kalahari.com.

The entry-level IIP with its 4" touch screen offers 4GB storage and a dual core processor while the slightly larger 4.5" IVP boasts 8GB storage and a quad core processor. Storage for both devices is extendable with a SD card - up to 36MB (IIP) and 40MB (IVP). Each has 1GB RAM and a software enhanced 8.0MP rear camera. An extra battery is available free of charge with the IIP to ensure uninterrupted use while the IVP comes with a handy leatherette cover.

Aside from the kalahari.com eReader app, the smartphones comes with the kalahari.com online shopping app installed to make it easier to shop online. Pre-loaded social media apps include Facebook, Twitter, WeChat, MyEdit and Skype and close to a million free apps are available in the Android app market.

The new WiFi & 3G gobii tablet is currently on pre-order and expected to be available at the end of May 2014.