Econet customers who enjoy the popular SmartBiz data bundle now have a convenient new way to pay for their subscriptions. The mobile network operator has introduced a USSD code that allows users to purchase SmartBiz packages directly from their phones, eliminating the need to visit an Econet shop in person.

This development addresses one of the main complaints about SmartBiz – the inconvenience of having to queue at an Econet outlet each time you wanted to renew your package. As Zimbabwe’s largest mobile network, Econet shops often have long queues, frustrating customers who simply want to top up their data.

How to Pay for SmartBiz Using USSD

The new USSD payment process is straightforward:

Dial *543#
Select “SmartBiz Subscription” from the menu
Choose your desired SmartBiz package
Enter the SmartBiz number you are paying for
Complete the payment

Importantly, you don’t need to perform this process on the actual SmartBiz line. You can use any Econet number to pay for a SmartBiz subscription on a different line.

If you attempt to enter a number that doesn’t have an active SmartBiz subscription, you’ll receive an error message. This safeguard helps prevent accidental payments for non-existent services.

Available SmartBiz Packages

When using the USSD code, you’ll see the following SmartBiz options:

SmartBiz 5 – USD45
SmartBiz 10 – USD87
SmartBiz 20 – USD167
SmartBiz 50 – USD417

These packages offer varying speeds, with the number indicating the promised speed in Mbps. For example, SmartBiz 5 provides speeds up to 5 Mbps.

Recent Changes to SmartBiz

This new payment method comes on the heels of some other significant changes to the SmartBiz service. Last month, Econet reduced the prices of SmartBiz bundles, making them an incredibly attractive option for many internet users in Zimbabwe. For a brief period, SmartBiz was arguably the best internet deal available in the country.

However, the landscape shifted dramatically with the arrival of Starlink in Zimbabwe. The satellite internet provider’s entry into the market has sparked intense competition and forced existing ISPs to re-evaluate their offerings.

In response to these market pressures, Econet has recently adjusted the speeds of SmartBiz packages to match their advertised rates. Previously, many users reported experiencing speeds significantly higher than what their package promised – sometimes up to 100 Mbps. Now, customers are finding their speeds capped at the advertised rate for their chosen package.

While this change may disappoint some users who had grown accustomed to the higher speeds, it brings the service in line with what is officially promised. The SmartBiz 5 package, for instance, now consistently delivers speeds around 5 Mbps.

Is SmartBiz Still a Good Deal?

Despite the speed adjustments, SmartBiz remains an attractive option for many users, especially those with lighter internet needs. The unlimited data allowance (subject to a soft cap of 1 TB) is particularly appealing for households that consume a lot of content or have multiple users sharing the connection.

At 5 Mbps, the entry-level SmartBiz 5 package is sufficient for basic web browsing, email, social media use, and even streaming video at standard definition. However, users with more demanding requirements – such as gamers, large households, or those who frequently upload large files – may find the speed limiting and might want to consider upgrading to a faster package or exploring alternatives.

Comparison with Starlink

The new ease of payment for SmartBiz comes at a crucial time as Econet faces stiff competition from Starlink. Let’s compare the entry-level offerings from both providers:

SmartBiz 5: USD45/month, 5 Mbps guaranteed speed, unlimited data (1 TB soft cap)
Starlink Residential Lite: USD30/month, 20-100 Mbps expected speed, unlimited data (subject to fair use policy)

While Starlink offers potentially higher speeds at a lower price point, SmartBiz has some advantages:

Established local infrastructure and support
No need for specialised equipment installation
More predictable performance, especially in urban areas

For a more detailed comparison of SmartBiz and Starlink, check out our in-depth analysis.

The Future of Internet in Zimbabwe

The introduction of USSD payments for SmartBiz, coupled with Starlink’s entry into the market, signals an exciting time for internet users in Zimbabwe. Increased competition is likely to drive further innovations, potentially leading to:

More competitive pricing across all ISPs
Improved service quality and customer support
Expansion of high-speed internet access to underserved areas
Introduction of new technologies and service tiers

We may also see Econet and other providers introduce new packages or adjust existing ones to better compete with Starlink’s offerings. There are already rumours of Econet trialling a mysterious “Unlimited Bundle” for select customers, which could be a game-changer if rolled out widely.

Choosing the Right Internet Package

With more options than ever before, Zimbabwean consumers need to carefully consider their internet needs when selecting a provider and package. Factors to consider include:

Speed requirements for your typical usage
Number of devices and users in your household
Data consumption habits
Budget constraints
Availability and reliability of service in your area

The new USSD payment option for SmartBiz removes one barrier to entry for Econet’s service, making it a more attractive option for those who value convenience. However, it’s essential to weigh this against other factors like speed, price, and data allowances when making your decision.

Conclusion

Econet’s introduction of USSD payments for SmartBiz bundles is a welcome development that streamlines the process of maintaining an internet connection. While recent speed adjustments may have tempered some users’ enthusiasm, SmartBiz remains a competitive option in the Zimbabwean internet market, especially for those with moderate bandwidth needs.

As the internet landscape in Zimbabwe continues to evolve rapidly, consumers stand to benefit from increased competition and improved services. Stay tuned to Zimpricecheck.com for the latest updates on internet packages, pricing, and availability across all providers. We’ll continue to monitor developments and provide analysis to help you make informed decisions about your internet service.