It’s hard to imagine a world without technology, and when the global pandemic struck in 2020, connectivity was a lifeline for many. Demand for faster speeds and greater bandwidth increased, with households turning to online entertainment and video calling.
However, not all countries have historically been able to keep up with demand or deliver fast connections speeds, especially by mobile. Africa’s service has been patchy and inconsistent as a continent, but South Africa has set out to up its game in recent years.
Taking a Step Forward
More people than ever before connect to the internet in South Africa using smartphones with both 3G and 4G networks common. This has only been possible due to the recent improvements in mobile speeds, with a 98% year-on-year growth rate recorded.
In fact, the mobile performance in South Africa is now so strong that it regularly outperforms WiFi. One study showed that the average download speed for mobile users was 14.8 mbps compared to just 8.8 mbps when using WiFi.
Despite this, WiFi use still remains high across South Africa, with some areas even showing a rise. The reason for this is the cost, and availability of data, with users reluctant to consume their data allowance when a slower WiFi connection was available.
Both mobile and WiFi connections in South Africa still experience times of high traffic when service can slow, but overall, the mobile service is greatly outperforming WiFi. And although WiFi is still in demand, mobile data is used far more frequently, allowing South Africans to access the fastest available online shopping, banking, and streaming speeds.
More Opportunities for Entertainment
Although better access to essential facilities such as banking has been critical for many South Africans, it’s not just about basic functionality.
In South Africa, there is an enormous demand for online gaming, with the country being the only place in Africa to have local servers for major games.
This appetite has transferred to the world of mobile play, where there has been a huge surge in mobile gambling games such as these. Being able to play on the go has proven to be very popular, with more players than ever turning to online casinos for entertainment.
It would be fair to say that gambling revenue has soared in South Africa in recent years, and further expansion is predicted. High mobile speeds and good connectivity will be critical to the success of this, with players looking for ease of access and convenience.
Before South Africa improved its networks, such demand for mobile gaming would have been unthinkable. But with networks now outperforming WiFI, it’s not difficult to see why so many have turned to online play, including gambling at casinos.
As technology continues to evolve rapidly, South Africa will have to work hard to ensure it keeps pace with innovation. However, with a demanding market clamouring for more, there’s no question that it will be a priority.