"Why Africa's next Tv technology should involve mobile phones."

Mobile phones have shaped the way we think and do ordinary  business. They are ubiquitous and are becoming the center piece of technology increasingly. It is estimated that over 700 million people are active mobile users in Africa (Afinnovator). East Africa alone has over 67 million active users. Mobile phones have influenced various sectors such as banking and money transfer in what is called commonly M-pesa or Mtn mobile money. They have shaped social networking, developed political activism and redefined entertainment. As a general characteristic all apps created for Africans are simple but with dynamic capabilities. 

The app developers are mindful of the basic mobile phones that African users carry. In 2015 all countries across the world are expected to have migrated to receiving digital television signals according to the 2006 Geneva Agreement. Uganda, and Kenya according to the time schedule is expected to have shifted by December 31st this year.  This conversion will prove a challenge considering that majority of the TV viewers don’t have digital TVs. As such they will have to subscribe to service providers or buy digital TV decoders to receive signals. It is on this footing that the Simu TV idea thrives.  

Simu is a Swahili word to mean phone. By harnessing the already existing mobile phone users we intend to provide TV access through their phones. The ability to receive digital TV ready signals by merely owning a mobile set is simply intriguing. It will simply make TV access a realty to even the least deserving of people who would have otherwise been exploited by existing service providers. This typifies what we stand for: “ making extraordinary technology ordinary.”

Simu tv intends to create a need only digital TV content providing service. Users will be able to conveniently use their phones (smart or non smart phones) to access digital ready signals on a need only basis and as and when they want to watch tv at under $0.3.This will make digital access a reality to many Africans. It will be a cushion for the panick that is definitely imminent when the digital Tv clock counts down.


Now you can support our work! visit our campaign at:
http://www.indiegogo.com/tvonlywhenyouwantit

twitter; @simutv

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Simu-Systems/389626407795303?ref=stream