Econet explains the guidelines for SmartBiz routers, following reports of baffling communication from customers
Econet, Zimbabwe's leading telecommunications company, has addressed the confusion surrounding the use of routers for its SmartBiz customers. Contrary to rumours circulating on social media, any router, MiFi, or CPE that meets the technical requirements will work with SmartBiz.
The confusion arose from a genuine message sent to SmartBiz customers and the subsequent sharing of WhatsApp screenshots. Econet has disputed the authenticity of these screenshots, stating that they do not mandate the purchase of Econet-supplied routers.
In a recent announcement, Econet has unveiled new, broader data packages aimed at offering more choice and delivering a consistent digital experience. While the details of these updates are yet to be officially confirmed, SmartBiz users should expect changes to products and pricing soon.
Existing SmartBiz subscriptions remain unaffected, and customers can continue using their current routers until their bundle expires. However, if you've been using a SmartBiz SIM directly in your phone, you'll need a router that meets the specifications starting from 10 September.
From this date, SmartBiz SIMs will no longer work in smartphones and will only function through Wi-Fi routers or CPEs. This change in functionality is due to a network infrastructure update requiring devices to connect through Wi-Fi for service continuity.
Econet has clarified that it is false that only Econet-supplied routers will work with SmartBiz. The technical requirements for compatible routers include Wi-Fi 6 support, up to 32 users, and up to 10dBi antennas. Econet shops do sell compatible routers, some of which cost around $199 USD, but these are optional for SmartBiz customers.
Customers are advised to exercise caution when receiving information, given the conflicting advice and possible compromised support channels. Econet's X (formerly Twitter) support account has recently posted suspicious, unrelated content, raising concerns about its authenticity.
The timing of the September 10 router enforcement suggests that the upcoming SmartBiz changes may be connected to these broader data packages. Econet has not mandated the purchase of any specific router for its SmartBiz customers, and any router, MiFi, or CPE that meets the specifications will work with SmartBiz, regardless of the supplier.
