A new cellphone soon to be launched may be the answer to network connectivity problems in remote areas. The VF 247 is a solar-powered phone which boasts features such as an integrated FM radio, speakerphone, standard battery, solar panel and a torch.
A new cellphone soon to be launched may be the answer to network connectivity problems in remote areas. The VF 247 is a solar-powered phone which boasts features such as an integrated FM radio, speakerphone, standard battery, solar panel and a torch.
According to Vodacom Executive Head, Richard Boorman, the phone has integrated solar panels that charge the internal battery which means that it will be able to work when it is cloudy or at night.
“Depending on the strength of sunlight and the network connection, one hour’s charge could give you about 10 minutes.The phone will continue to charge in lower light levels, but obviously not as quickly as in direct sunlight,” Boorman said.
He said the purpose of the phone is to make mobile communications accessible to as many people as possible including those who do not have permanent access to electricity.
But reactions to the phone have been mixed. Extension 9 resident Linda Bans welcomed the news about the phone saying that she would not mind buying one.
“We experience a lot of power cuts in our area, so the phone would make things better because it means that I can charge it using sunlight,” Bans said. Joza resident, Nondyebo Xako said she liked the fact that the phone saves electricity.
“I think that the phone is a very good idea because I am unemployed so having the phone means that I am able to save money,” she said.
However some people have expressed doubt over the fact that the phone uses solar energy to function. “I don’t think that I would buy the phone because it seems to me that it functions in summer and spring only,” said Vukani resident Siyanda Nzuzo.
