Smartphones penetration rises by over 10pc

DAR ES SALAAM: ADVANCED technologies that push internet services are increasingly being used by more Tanzanians, with smartphone penetration among the population rising by 11 percentage points in two years, it has been learnt.

The latest communications sector status report published by the Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA) shows that smartphones have reached 36 per cent of Tanzanians, up from 25 per cent in 2022.

According to the report, issued by TCRA Director General, Dr Jabiri Bakari, there were 87,448,346 active mobile phone SIM cards in December 2024, of which 23,419,299 were used in smartphones.

Smartphones are mobile phones with advanced computing capabilities and other features not in traditional handsets. These devices have facilitated the uptake of high-speed internet services in Tanzania.

The report shows that third and fourth mobile phone technology generations (3G and 4G) are now accessed by 89.5 per cent of the population.

It says 3G technology had penetrated 91 per cent of the population and 4G to 88 per cent by December 2024. Five G penetration was 22 per cent in December 2024.

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The technology is faster, more efficient and reliable and supports multiple device connections.

It is expected to push Tanzania’s agenda for a digital economy. It adds that 3G technology covers 74 per cent of Tanzania’s area. Four G covers 71 per cent and 5G has penetrated 2.5 of the country.

This mobile phone standard entered Tanzania in 2022. The report indicates that registered domains with Tanzanian names increased from 31,584 in September to 32,267 in December 2024.

Domains increased by 11.24 per cent from 29,006 in January last year. The dot tz is Tanzania’s unique identity in cyberspace, just as the code +255 for telecommunications.

The benefits of owning a Tanzania domain name include clients’ easy access, demonstration of professionalism, branding opportunities and user trust and confidence in a business or service.