Vox is expanding its wireless portfolio through the introduction of several broadband internet packages using Rain’s Long Term Evolution-Advanced (LTE-A) network, with prices starting at R549 per month.

Rain, previously Wireless Business Solutions, recently announced the rollout of over 1500 LTE-A base stations across the country, with the intention of expanding coverage to a total of 2 000 sites by the end of 2017 and 4000 by the end of 2018.

The LTE-A package is an easy to use, SIM card based service running over a more robust network that offers end users with higher throughputs of up to 50Mbps – speeds that are more associated with fibre links.

“With the introduction of these packages, customers now have a wider range of choice when it comes to selecting a broadband connectivity provider. We further simplify the process by delivering the SIM and Huawei router right to the customer’s doorstep and ensuring that they are RICA compliant,” says Phiana de Villiers, product manager for wireless at Vox.

Vox will initially offer five LTE-A packages: a Basic Plan with 55GB of data, an Advanced Plan with 85GB of data an Ultimate Plan with 120GB, and 220GB Plan and a 330GB plan. The roll out is supported by a double data promotion through which the customer will receive double their data allowance at no additional cost.  In addition, customers will be able to purchase top-up data vouchers ranging from 1GB to 20GB via the company website, ranging from R10 to R200. 

Adds De Villiers, “It is a capped service, which gives customers control over their spending and ensures that there is no bill shock at the end of the month.”

Customers have the option of entering into a long-term contract where the cost of the router is built into the monthly subscription, or by buying the router upfront and paying for their data plan on a monthly basis. Customers can use the map on Rain’s website (http://www.rain.co.za) to determine if they have LTE-A coverage in their area.

“In order to provide customers with an even better internet experience, we will in the near future introduce packages that include a router with an external antenna which will be  delivered and installed at the customer’s premises,” says De Villiers.

The new product offering strengthens Vox’s portfolio of wireless connectivity solutions, which already includes microwave, satellite and 3G services.