Press releases

Wikipedia app on KaiOS unlocks the largest collection of human knowledge to millions of people

San Francisco and Hong Kong (January 11, 2021) — Today, KaiOS Technologies and the Wikimedia Foundation announce the launch of the official Wikipedia app for all KaiOS-enabled devices, available through the KaiStore. With the free app, people can search and explore more than 50 million articles on Wikipedia in over 100 languages.

Wikipedia forms the largest collaborative collection of free knowledge in human history. Now it’s available in an app designed specifically for first-time internet users on smart feature phones running KaiOS. With this launch, Wikipedia becomes available to millions of people in emerging markets in addition to the 1.5 billion unique devices that already access Wikipedia every month.

Wikipedia and KaiOS share a mission of empowering all people through the Internet by creating equal access to free, quality content that helps people learn and experience the world. Two hundred eighty thousand volunteers write, debate, and fact-check Wikipedia’s articles, so readers can trust that the information on Wikipedia is neutral and reliable.

“Wikipedia embodies the values we cherish at KaiOS,” said Sebastien Codeville, CEO of KaiOS Technologies. “The website equalizes access to quality and relevant information, and it’s one of the, if not the best example of the power and potential of the Internet to make a positive impact on people’s lives. It’s been our longtime wish to become partners, and the whole team here is extremely excited to have the official Wikipedia app launched on KaiOS.”

“Through the Wikipedia app on KaiOS devices, millions of people will be able to access the world’s knowledge for the first time,” said Toby Negrin, Chief Product Officer at the Wikimedia Foundation. “This new app was built by our engineers based in these markets, working directly with local users to understand their needs and the languages in which they look for information. With today’s announcement, we are able to put knowledge directly in the hands of new Wikipedia readers as we move closer to our vision of a world where all people can participate in the sum of all knowledge.”

The Product team at the Wikimedia Foundation designed the app specifically for KaiOS, taking into account the lack of a touchscreen on smart feature phones and the specific needs of first-time internet users in emerging markets. The team initially launched the app in India, where it quickly hit 1.4 million downloads. The app is now available in nearly all countries around the world, on both 256 and 512 MB RAM KaiOS devices.

Since the first KaiOS-enabled device hit the market in 2017, KaiOS has gained widespread popularity. Over 140 million devices have shipped worldwide, with a unique mix of capability and affordability breaking new ground for mobile devices. 

Designed to run on low-spec hardware, KaiOS is a light operating system leveraging open, web-based technologies such as HTML5 to create a rich, intuitive user experience and enable access to essential apps and other internet-based resources. In addition, the open architecture of KaiOS allows developers to easily create apps for KaiOS, reaching a previously untapped audience on smart feature phones. The Wikipedia app is now available for download from the KaiStore in more than 100 countries with active KaiOS users.

About KaiOS Technologies
KaiOS Technologies powers an ecosystem of affordable digital products and services, and exists to empower people around the world through technology. Its flagship product, KaiOS, is the leading mobile operating system for smart feature phones with more than 135 million devices shipped in over 150 countries.

Their mission is to open up new possibilities for individuals, organisations and societies, by bringing mobile connectivity to the billions of people without internet in emerging markets, as well as providing those in established markets with an alternative to smartphones. KaiOS is based on HTML5 and other open web technologies. Devices running on the platform require limited memory, while still offering a rich user experience through access to apps like the Google Assistant, WhatsApp, YouTube, Facebook and Google Maps.

For more information about KaiOS, please visit www.kaiostech.com and www.twitter.com/kaiOSTech

KaiOS  Media Contact
Eletta Leung
eletta.leung@kaiostech.com

About Wikipedia
Wikipedia is the world’s free knowledge resource. It is a collaborative creation that has been added to and edited by millions of people from around the globe since it was created in 2001: everyone can edit it, at any time. Wikipedia is offered in more than 300 languages containing a total of more than 55 million articles. It is the largest, collaborative collection of free knowledge in human history, and today its content is contributed and edited by a community of more than 280,000 volunteer editors each month. 

About the Wikimedia Foundation
The Wikimedia Foundation is the nonprofit organization that operates Wikipedia and the other Wikimedia free knowledge projects. Our vision is a world in which every single human can freely share in the sum of all knowledge. We believe that everyone has the potential to contribute something to our shared knowledge, and that everyone should be able to access that knowledge freely. We host Wikipedia and the Wikimedia projects, build software experiences for reading, contributing, and sharing Wikimedia content, support the volunteer communities and partners who make Wikimedia possible, and advocate for policies that enable Wikimedia and free knowledge to thrive. 

The Wikimedia Foundation is a charitable, not-for-profit organization that relies on donations. We receive donations from millions of individuals around the world, with an average donation of about $15. We also receive donations through institutional grants and gifts. The Wikimedia Foundation is a United States 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization with offices in San Francisco, California, USA.

Partnership news

Meet the new Nokia 6300 4G and Nokia 8000 4G, enabled by KaiOSBringing modern apps and sleek designs at affordable prices

HMD Global, the home of Nokia phones, today announced their newest smart feature phones enabled by KaiOS: the Nokia 6300 4G and Nokia 8000 4G. This marks the third collaboration between KaiOS and HMD Global, combining modern connectivity and smartphone features with trusted heritage at highly affordable prices for consumers – all in a popular, easy to use candy bar form factor.

Through the KaiStore, the two new phones feature more than 700 popular apps*, such as Google Assistant, WhatsApp, YouTube, Google Maps, and Facebook, giving users access to both global and local content in the palm of their hand. Both phones offer streamlined 4G experiences for uninterrupted socializing and entertainment that goes everywhere you go, along with WiFi hotspot capabilities to share the connectivity.

Nokia 6300 4G – The classic reimagined with 4G at the lowest price point of Nokia’s lineup

The Nokia 6300 4G brings smart features and 4G connectivity to a trusted favorite, drawing inspiration from the original Nokia 6300. Designed for ease of use, the 6300 4G offers lasting quality and brings WhatsApp to the lowest price point on a Nokia phone yet.

Packed with essential operations and apps for convenience all in one place, the amazingly affordable Nokia 6300 comes with a suite of Google services, including Google Assistant to ask questions, get directions, and call friends simply with your voice. With the ability to become a WiFi hotspot, the 6300 4G can become the hub for your daily Internet activities connecting your tablets and laptops.

Nokia 8000 4G  –  The modern twist with all the smart essentials in a premium look

The Nokia 8000 4G offers an elegantly crafted glass-like design for consumers that want all the essential features in a sophisticated, premium package. Offering 4G & Bluetooth connectivity, WiFi hotspot capability, and access to apps including WhatsApp, Facebook, and YouTube, the 8000 4G is a perfect on-the-go option for socialization and entertainment, and provides standout quality in a metalized chrome midframe and four gemstone-inspired colors (Onyx, Opal, Citrine, and Topaz).

With a generous 2.8” screen and hardwearing 3D-curved key mat, the 8000 4G is designed for long term, comfortable use and clear viewing of content. A long-lasting battery life and sturdy polycarbonate finish allow the phone to stand up to daily use and on-the-go activities while maintaining its premium package.

Pricing and availability  

  • The Nokia 6300 4G comes in Cyan Green, Light Charcoal, and Powder White, and is available in select markets for a global average retail price of 49 EUR. Check local availability.
  • The Nokia 8000 4G comes in Onyx, Opal, Citrine, and Topaz, and is available in select markets for a global average retail price of 79 EUR. Check local availability.

Read the full press release for more details on the Nokia 6300 4G and Nokia 8000 4G smart feature phones.

*The number of apps available in KaiStore is subject to local availability

Press releases

KaiOS Technologies and Atari®️ bring iconic game PONG®️ to smart feature phones

San Francisco, CA (October 29, 2020) – KaiOS Technologies and Atari®️, one of the world’s most iconic consumer brands and entertainment producers, announced today that PONG®️, the first-ever commercially successful video game, is now available on KaiOS-enabled smart feature phones.

PONG and KaiOS devices are a perfect match, pairing nostalgic gameplay with a simple and easy-to-use keypad interface. It brings a classic and fun gaming experience for all ages to first-time internet users on smart feature phones. Available via the KaiStore worldwide, the PONG app is optimized for all KaiOS-enabled devices, with both 256MB and 512MB of RAM.

“We’re very excited to welcome Atari to the KaiOS ecosystem,” said Sebastien Codeville, CEO of KaiOS Technologies. “The classic arrow and keypad format of KaiOS-enabled devices is perfect for old-school gaming, and PONG is the ultimate classic. I myself am eager to give this new KaiStore addition a try!” 

PONG introduced video games to an entire generation when it first launched in 1972,” said Jean-Marcel Nicolai, COO of Atari. “In partnership with Kai, we’re thrilled to introduce PONG to a new market of gamers, and we look forward to bringing more Atari games to KaiOS in the future.”

Since the first KaiOS-enabled device hit the market in 2017, KaiOS has gained widespread popularity. Over 135 million devices have been shipped worldwide, with their unique mix of capability and affordability breaking new ground for mobile devices. Designed to run on low-spec hardware, KaiOS is a light operating system leveraging open, web-based technologies such as HTML5 to create a rich, intuitive user experience and enable access to essential apps and other internet-based resources. Together with its partners, Kai aims to close the digital divide by bringing mobile connectivity to the billions of people without internet in emerging markets, as well as providing those in established markets with an alternative to smartphones.

Since KaiOS is built on open web technologies, developers can easily port their games and other apps to KaiOS, reaching a previously untapped audience of millions of smart feature phone users. Developers can also monetize their KaiOS apps via KaiAds, the first advertising software development kit (SDK) and supply-side platform (SSP) designed for smart feature phones. KaiAds offers brands (including Atari) and advertisers entry into new regions via KaiOS-enabled devices to reach new users previously not reachable through digital marketing.

Created as a simple-but-challenging table tennis simulation, the influential PONG arcade game debuted on November 29, 1972. It was the first commercially successful video game and an immediate smash hit that effectively established the video game industry. PONG was originally meant to be a simple training exercise, assigned to newly hired engineer Allan Alcorn by Atari founder Nolan Bushnell to acclimate him to creating games. Alcorn went above and beyond, adding appealing features such as segmented paddles that changed the angle of the “ball” and accelerating speeds as play went on. Alcorn also elected to retain a “glitch” that didn’t allow the paddles to reach the top of the screen, which added to the game’s difficulty. Lastly, Bushnell had Alcorn add cheering crowd noises and other sound effects. The game was so well-received that Bushnell and the team were able to rapidly grow Atari and an entire industry was born.

To stay up-to-date on all things Atari and retro-pop-culture, follow on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

About KaiOS Technologies  

KaiOS Technologies powers an ecosystem of affordable digital products and services, and exists to empower people around the world through technology. Its flagship product, KaiOS, is the leading mobile operating system for smart feature phones with more than 135 million devices shipped in over 150 countries. Kai’s mission is to open up new possibilities for individuals, organizations, and societies by bringing mobile connectivity to the billions of people without internet in emerging markets, as well as providing those in established markets with an alternative to smartphones. KaiOS is based on HTML5 and other open web technologies. Devices running on the platform require limited memory, while still offering a rich user experience through access to apps like the Google Assistant, WhatsApp, YouTube, Facebook and Google Maps.   

For more information about KaiOS, please visit www.kaiostech.com and www.twitter.com/kaiOSTech.

About Atari

Atari® is an interactive entertainment company. As an iconic brand that transcends generations and audiences, the company is globally recognized for its multi-platform, interactive entertainment, and licensed products. Atari owns and/or manages a portfolio of more than 200 games and franchises, including world-renowned brands like Asteroids®, Centipede®, Missile Command®, PONG®, and RollerCoaster Tycoon®. Atari has offices in New York and Paris. Visit us online at www.atari.com.

KaiOS Media Contact 

Eletta Leung / Sarah Collins
eletta.leung@kaiostech.com / scollins@hoffman.com +1 (408) 286 2611

Atari Media Contact 

UberStrategist Inc.
Mario R. Kroll and CJ Melendez
pr@uberstrategist.com
1-646-844-8983

Press releases

KaiOS Technologies partners with E. B. Solutions limited to bring first smart feature phone with a built-in infrared Thermometer to Bangladesh

Hong Kong, China <22  October 2020>  –Today KaiOS Technologies, maker of the leading mobile operating system for smart feature phones, and E. B. Solutions Limited, leading Bangladeshi technology solution provider, announced Geo Phone T15. Available for 3,500 Taka (USD 41) this new KaiOS-enabled device makes access to popular apps and high-speed mobile internet more affordable than budget-oriented smartphones. The T15 also includes an infrared thermometer developed by FISE, the first of its kind in a smart feature phone.

South Asia is one of the areas hit hardest by the global digital divide according to the GSMA, as 55% of the population remains isolated from mobile internet, severely limiting access to both educational resources and popular applications. To create a rich user experience without a costly price tag, the T15 combines affordable feature phone hardware with KaiOS, giving users access to hundreds of popular apps including WhatsApp, YouTube, Facebook, and the Google Assistant through the KaiStore.

Bangladesh is also in dire need of digital tools to curb the COVID-19 pandemic, with more than 390 thousand* confirmed COVID-19 cases and a ranking as the sixth most densely populated country globally. Combining an IR thermometer with high-speed 4G internet access, the Geo Phone T15 democratizes access to instant, touchless temperature monitoring and online health resources, enabling the people of Bangladesh to help slow the spread of COVID-19.

“This combination of high-speed internet, on-the-go temperature monitoring, and affordability are perfect for Bangladesh,” said Sebastien Codeville, CEO of KaiOS Technologies. “Popular apps and other vital digital resources are more accessible than ever via the T15, alongside the potentially life-saving power of contactless temperature readings. With E. B. Solutions Ltd., we’re taking a crucial step towards closing the digital divide in South Asia, and helping stop the spread of COVID-19 through an affordable, innovative device.”

“Geo Phone T-15 will be an affordable device which can narrow this digital divide for rural populations. Geo Phone T15, powered by KaiOS, is a 4G VoLTE enabled device with necessary apps for your digital lifestyle,” said Rafiur Rahman Khan Yusufzai, Managing Director of E. B. Solutions Ltd. “It is notably the first smart feature phone with a built-in infrared thermometer.”

Accurate down to 0.2 degrees Celsius, the T15’s IR thermometer is located next to the smart feature phone’s rear-facing camera. Users simply point it at the subject’s forehead for an instant, accurate temperature reading. The Geo Phone T15 also provides access to educational resources such as Kai’s in-house app Life, which features lessons and self-help articles related to COVID-19, general health, digital literacy, agriculture, and more.

About KaiOS Technologies

KaiOS Technologies powers an ecosystem of affordable digital products and services, and exists to empower people around the world through technology. Its flagship product, KaiOS, is the leading mobile operating system for smart feature phones with more than 135 million devices shipped in over 150 countries. Kai’s mission is to  open up new possibilities for individuals, organizations, and societies by bringing mobile connectivity to the billions of people without internet in emerging markets, as well as providing those in established markets with an alternative to smartphones. KaiOS is based on HTML5 and other open web technologies. Devices running on the platform require limited memory, while still offering a rich user experience through access to apps like Google Assistant, WhatsApp, YouTube, Facebook and Google Maps.

About E. B. Solutions Ltd. (a concern of EBS Group)

E. B. Solutions Ltd. (“EBS”) is the parent company of EBS Group, founded in 2004 and currently the largest Telecom Value Added & IT Solution Provider in Bangladesh with 100+ deployments at home and in 10 different countries worldwide. EBS Group also has other spin-off companies, each of which provides products and services in different industry verticals. With an experience of delivering telecom VAS services, smartphone apps and carrier-grade solutions for the telecom industry, EBS is now determined to do something about the persisting digital divide in the country where 59% rural households still do not have access to a smartphone. Therefore, with the newest product, country’s first smart feature phone run by KaiOS – Geo Phone T15, and with “Dream-Innovate-Enjoy” as its brand philosophy, EBS’s new mission is to provide value for money for fiscally conservative population who needs social connectivity to enrich their lives.

KaiOS Media Contact

Eletta Leung / Sarah Collins
eletta.leung@kaiostech.com / scollins@hoffman.com +1 (408) 286 2611

EBS Media Contact

Rajkumar Chakraborty / Shomeshwar Oli
rajkumar@ebsbd.com / shomeshwar.oli@ebsbd.com
+8801751993707 / +8801710510377

* As of 19 October, 2020 

Partnership news

KaiOS image of digital inclusion in Nigeria wins contest

A KaiOS image representing digital inclusion in Nigeria was one of three winning photos in a contest organized by The World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS), a United Nations (UN) conference for bridging the global digital divide. 

The contest called for images that showed how information and communication technologies, like apps and internet-enabled devices, support sustainable development goals.

The award winning photo, taken by photographer Emmanuel-King Itegboje

The winning photo, taken by Nigerian photographer Emmanuel-King Itegboje, depicts a man using a KaiOS phone on a farm in Nigeria. “The latest farming info is affordably arriving through smart feature phones,” reads the photo caption, referencing how African farmers have begun using apps on KaiOS devices to improve their harvests.  

A collaboration with mission-driven startup #Adtags

A collaboration between KaiOS and #Adtags, a startup that provides global brands with “non-stocky” images of people of color to increase their representation in media, the photo was one of a series commissioned by KaiOS to portray people using KaiOS devices.

“We needed pictures of people in Africa using KaiOS phones, and I realized we could create a real win-win situation working with #Adtags. We would get custom-made pictures of people with smart feature phones; we would support a startup with a similar, purposeful mission; and images of people using our devices would end up in the #Adtags library for others to see and use,” says KaiOS Marketing Director Tim Metz.

#Adtags founder Vimbayi Kajese worked with three local photographers to create photos of Nigerian men and women using KaiOS devices to learn, work, and play, but only one photo, Emmanuel’s, was submitted to the WSIS photo contest. “Out of all the images, the winning photo is the one that most accurately represents our vision,” says KaiOS Brand Manager Donald Chung. 

The photo was scheduled to be exhibited at the WSIS Forum in Geneva in early April, but plans changed as a result of the pandemic. The photo can be can be seen on the WSIS website instead.

For Tim Metz, the best thing about winning the WSIS photo competition is that it’s brought visibility to smart feature phones and their role in making the internet more accessible. “The jury recognizes the impact that smart feature phones have on daily life in Africa,” he says. “They undoubtedly had other, more futuristic and flashy pictures to choose from, but they chose this one.”

Press releases

KaiOS Technologies and wikiHow partner to close the global education gap

Hong Kong, China <21 July 2020> – Today KaiOS Technologies, maker of the leading mobile operating system for smart feature phones, announced a partnership with online how-to leaders wikiHow, making free, expert-reviewed, high-quality skills courses available to KaiOS users around the world. The new wikiHow app provides access to more than 150,000 step-by-step how-to articles, expanding the reach of valuable educational content to millions of smart feature phones in more than 150 countries.

Available to KaiOS users via the KaiStore, the wikiHow app features a set of how-to articles dedicated to helping people make the most of their KaiOS-powered devices, including step-by-step guides on connecting to Wi-Fi, downloading apps, and more. One can expect to find anything from articles on saving money to internet safety to relieving stress and anxiety as part of wikiHow’s expanding library of educational content.

“wikiHow’s expertly crafted how-to articles make step-by-step learning easy for first-time internet users,” said Sebastien Codeville, CEO of KaiOS Technologies. “Together we can help those impacted by the digital divide learn how to use the internet, and build general life skills related to health, finances, and more from wikiHow’s extensive, curated library.”

“Our mission is to educate everyone on the planet,” said Elizabeth Douglas, CEO of wikiHow. “We’re very delighted to work with Kai to expand the reach of our guides to millions of people in need; together we can make knowledge more equitable around the world.”

According to the GSMA, lack of education is one of the largest barriers to closing the global digital divide, alongside the expense of digital devices. Digital literacy training is important in helping first-time users make the most of digital resources related to banking, healthcare, and education; however, devices capable of high-speed internet access have remained inaccessible to those in need. This partnership tackles both barriers at once, allowing users to access educational articles on thousands of topics from affordable KaiOS-powered devices.

About KaiOS Technologies

KaiOS  Technologies powers an ecosystem of affordable digital products and  services, and  exists to empower people around the world through technology. Its flagship product,  KaiOS, is the leading mobile operating system for smart feature phones with more than  135  million devices shipped in over  150  countries. Kai’s mission is to  open up  new possibilities for individuals, organizations, and societies by bringing mobile connectivity to the billions of people without internet in emerging markets, as well as providing those in established markets with an alternative to smartphones.  KaiOS  is based on HTML5 and other open web technologies. Devices running on the platform require limited memory, while still offering a rich user experience through access to apps like Google Assistant, WhatsApp, YouTube, Facebook and Google Maps.

About wikiHow

wikiHow is a collaborative effort to create the world’s most helpful how-to guides. Available in 18 languages and read in every country and territory of the world, wikiHow helps over 150 million unique people learn how to do anything every month. Since 2005, wikiHow has helped billions of people to learn how to solve problems large and small. wikiHow works with credentialed experts, a team of trained researchers, and a devoted community to create the most reliable, comprehensive and delightful how-to content on the Internet.

KaiOS Media Contact

Eletta Leung / Sarah Collins
eletta.leung@kaiostech.com / scollins@hoffman.com +1 (206) 423-6081

wikiHow Media Contact

Allyson Edwards, Head of Marketing
allyson@wikihow.com
+1 916 947 8911

Press releases

Econet launches the first low-cost KaiOS-enabled 3G phone in Zimbabwe

Harare <July 2, 2020>  – KaiOS Technologies, the makers of KaiOS – the leading mobile operating system for smart feature phones – and Econet Wireless Zimbabwe, the country’s largest mobile network operator with the broadest data network, today launched the Atom 3G phone. This is the country’s first 3G smart feature phone, and is set to help millions of Zimbabweans access the Internet and become digitally included.

Announcing the launch, Econet said the new handset will be bundled with a 3-month data package, offering customers 6GB of FREE data upon every purchase. The phone will be available at half the average price of a basic Android smartphone sold in Zimbabwe, making the Atom 3G the most affordable 3G device in the country.

The company’s Chief Commercial Officer, Mr Navdeep Kapur, said: “The COVID-19 pandemic has made life difficult for people in Zimbabwe. We want to help them get online, communicate with their loved ones locally and abroad via WhatsApp, Sasai or regular cellular voice calls. We also want our customers to access valuable content at this time, such as medical tips and advice.”

Mr Kapur said the Atom 3G phone can be purchased from any Econet Shop or other distribution agents across the country and added that the phone supports Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and GPS.

“The phone has a 2.4-inch display, 512MB of storage and supports a microSD card. It also comes with a powerful 1,500mAh battery that enables long and extended hours of talk time.

Atom 3G is priced at a level that is affordable for the millions of Zimbabweans who may not have the resources for a traditional smartphone, and we have included three months of free data as well to on-board new users and help them to access the mobile internet,” said Mr Kapur.

He said the long battery life, lasting up to 48 hours for the average user, was a critical feature for the informal sector in Zimbabwe and encouraged Zimbabweans to embrace the future by opening up to digitalisation. “It is now possible for all, with the new Atom 3G,” Mr Kapur said.

The launch of the Atom 3G is a major step towards full digital inclusion in Zimbabwe. According to the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ)’s first quarter sector performance report for 2020, industry figures show that mobile data penetration is currently at 59.1%. The POTRAZ report also showed that WhatsApp usage constitutes 40.5% of the total mobile internet and data usage in the country.

The current penetration level presents an untapped opportunity of 40.9% of the population that is yet to be digitally included. This is aligned to Econet’s Digital Lifestyle Network positioning which emphasizes the enhancement of customers’ lives through digital transformation.

Across much of Africa, the key barriers to internet access are device & data affordability as well as digital literacy. Smart feature phones running on KaiOS have been developed specifically to address these gaps.

“With access to the soon-available SASAI all-in-one App, which includes the popular SASAI Health Status Report, the device is set to help individuals, families, employees, employers, policymakers and others manage and mitigate the impact of the COVID-19 epidemic”, said Mr Kapur.”

The Atom 3G device also supports Google Assistant, which is especially useful for the less digitally literate users to easily interact with the device using voice commands. Other essential apps supported include Google Maps, YouTube, Facebook, and an in-house App called Life, which offers digital skills training and other educational material. These can be accessed on the phone from the KaiStore, which houses over 600 other data-lite apps.

Sebastien Codeville, the CEO of KaiOS Technologies, said: “We are delighted that KaiOS-enabled devices, which combine durability, affordability, and ease-of-use in one, are now available in Zimbabwe. With access to important, useful, and relevant content, we believe this device will enable every Zimbabwean to benefit from digitalization and positively impact their lives.”

About KaiOS Technologies

KaiOS  Technologies powers an ecosystem of affordable digital products and  services and  exists to empower people around the world through technology. Its flagship product, KaiOS, is the leading mobile operating system for smart feature phones – and the third-largest mobile operating system in the world – with more than 135 million devices shipped in over 150 countries.

Kai’s mission is to open up new possibilities for individuals, organizations, and societies by bringing mobile connectivity to the billions of people without internet in emerging markets, as well as providing those in established markets with an alternative to smartphones.

KaiOS  is based on HTML5 and other open web technologies. Devices running on the platform require limited memory, while still offering a rich user experience through access to apps like Google Assistant, WhatsApp, YouTube, Facebook, and Google Maps.

For more information about KaiOS, please visit www.kaiostech.com and www.twitter.com/kaiOSTech

About Econet Wireless

Econet Wireless Zimbabwe Limited is the largest mobile telecommunications, technology and digital solutions company in Zimbabwe. Now among the top three heavyweight counters, the company was listed on the Zimbabwe Stock Exchange (ZSE) in September 1998, less than three months after launching its commercial operations in July 1998.

Over the past 20 years Econet – which is by far the market leader in its industry with over 12.4 million connected customers – has invested millions of US dollars in deploying the widest and most robust 2G, 3G and 4G networks in the country.

Through its solid asset base, strong leadership and astute investment in talent, Econet has consistently led in innovation, product development and service delivery, enabling it to maintain and consolidate its market leadership position.

The company was the first to launch 3G services in 2009, the first to successfully launch mobile money services in 2011 under the name EcoCash, the first to launch mobile 4G in 2013, and the first to launch mobile insurance (EcoSure), among many other products and services it has rolled out.

So successful have Econet’s financial technology services been that in December 2018 the company successfully spun off its fintech businesses, to give birth to Cassava Smartech Zimbabwe Ltd, now a leading counter on the ZSE.

Econet has built an extensive distribution channel network throughout the country, which has created employment for tens of thousands of Zimbabweans and significantly contributed to the country’s public finances through taxation and various levies and other statutory obligations.

The company has, for over 20 years, supported social impact programmes in education, public health and youth leadership development mainly through its annual grant to Higherlife Foundation, which has impacted over 250 000 orphaned and vulnerable children.

KaiOS Media Contact

Eletta Leung / Bridget Fishleigh
eletta.leung@kaiostech.com / bridget@telecomsprafrica.com +44 7946 342 903

Econet Wireless Media Contact

Fungai Mandiveyi
Fungai.mandiveyi@econet.co.zw
+263 772 793 500

Press releases

Lagos state government, KaiOS and Robert and John team up to enable students in Nigeria to continue education during and after COVID-19Smart feature phones with Roducate app being distributed across Lagos, Nigeria

Hong Kong, China <30 June 2020> – KaiOS Technologies today announced that its smart feature phones are being distributed across the state of Lagos to help school children continue their education during the COVID-19 lock-down period – and supplement their learning once schools re-open.

The initiative has been led by Robert and John Ltd, a Nigerian innovative Research & Development company, in partnership with the Lagos State Government and KaiOS.

The First Bank of Nigeria Ltd is sponsoring the first batch of 20,000 KaiOS-enabled devices which come with activated MTN data SIM cards. These devices are being distributed to school children from low-income families (where household income is below US$100 a month) who have one year of state secondary school left. Communal solar panels are being installed at central places within the villages so that the devices can easily be charged.

These smart feature phones running on KaiOS will have the Roducate app – and a handful of other useful apps preloaded. Access to other content will be blocked so the device will be solely for educational purpose.

Designed and developed by Robert and John, Roducate is the first mobile learning app in Nigeria with all the approved curriculum materials for Primary, Secondary and select University courses. It was launched in 2014 and is fully endorsed by Nigerian Educational Research Development Council (NERDC), National Universities Commission (NUC), Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board(JAMB), African Union, and Microsoft.

Screenshot of Roducate

Roducate gives students access to full curriculum-based lecture notes, assignments, tutorial videos, podcasts, and mock exams with answers for state and nation-wide exams at all levels. The content can be downloaded onto the KaiOS phone and used online or offline.

Speaking from his office during a ceremony to mark the distribution of the first 20,000 smart feature phones, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, the Governor of Lagos State, requested that private companies in Lagos and beyond contribute to the initiative, with a target to sponsor 300,000 devices to school children in the coming months.

He also said “I am proud that Lagos State is taking the lead in Nigeria in using innovative technology to help improve the education of the next generation.  I am grateful to Robert and John for developing this impactful app, KaiOS for supporting the platform that integrates well the Roducate app and other essential content in affordable smart feature phones – and to First Bank for funding the first KaiOS devices”.

Mrs. Folashade Adefisayo, Lagos State Commissioner for Education,said “The pandemic may well bring permanent changes to how we teach. We need to use every channel possible to reach children including e-learning.”

Mr Femisola Awosika, CEO, Robert and John, said: “Smart feature phones enabled by KaiOS are the best device for the target demographic for this project; the children of low-income families.  They have been specifically designed to minimise data usage with a long-life battery. Lagos is the pace-setter embracing new technologies to help improve the quality of education.  We hope that the other states in Nigeria – and indeed countries across Africa – are watching carefully”.

Sebastien Codeville, CEO of KaiOS Technologies, said: “This is an impressive e-learning initiative that has launched at a time when so many children are not at school. It fits perfectly with our mission to provide connectivity and services to the hundreds of millions of Africans who still don’t have access to the internet. Roducate provides everything the children in Nigeria need to continue their education at a very high standard.”

Robert & John is currently working with First Bank Plc, the Lagos State government, as well as other state governments and private institutions in Nigeria to secure more funding for additional KaiOS devices.

About Robert and John Ltd

Headquartered in Lagos, Robert and John is an innovative research and development company that uses technology to address social problems in Nigeria – and across Africa.

Its flagship product, the Roducate educational app, was originally designed for Nigerian students, however, it can be customised to include the curriculums of other countries so that e-learning can be introduced – or expanded.

About KaiOS Technologies

KaiOS  Technologies powers an ecosystem of affordable digital products and services and exists to empower people around the world through technology. Its flagship product, KaiOS, is the leading mobile operating system for smart feature phones – and the third-largest mobile operating system in the world – with more than 135 million devices shipped in over 150 countries.

Kai’s mission is to open up new possibilities for individuals, organizations, and societies by bringing mobile connectivity to the billions of people without internet in emerging markets, as well as providing those in established markets with an alternative to smartphones.

KaiOS  is based on HTML5 and other open web technologies. Devices running on the platform require limited memory, while still offering a rich user experience through access to apps like Google Assistant, WhatsApp, YouTube, Facebook, and Google Maps.

For more information, please visit www.kaiostech.com and www.twitter.com/KaiOSTech.

KaiOS Media Contact

Eletta Leung / Bridget Fishleigh
eletta.leung@kaiostech.com / bridget@telecomsprafrica.com +44 7946 342 903

Press releases

KaiOS Technologies joins Cell-Ed’s 1 Million Learner Challenge to share free mobile literacy and work readiness courses worldwide

Hong Kong, China <June 10 2020> – Today KaiOS Technologies, maker of the leading mobile operating system for smart feature phones, announced its participation as a founding member of mobile-first learning company Cell-Ed’s 1 Million Learner Challenge. This new initiative will provide crucial skills courses for free, including Cell-Ed’s work readiness and digital literacy trainings, COVID-19 guide, as well as coaches and certificates. It marks an expansion of KaiOS Technologies and Cell-Ed’s existing partnership, with a greater range of content available to the first-time internet users in emerging markets who rely upon KaiOS.

With hundreds of millions of people lacking internet access through computers and smartphones, it’s more important than ever for isolated communities to receive accurate information and gain access to meaningful learning opportunities during the global pandemic.

KaiOS-enabled smart feature phones serve as an ideal platform for these educational materials because the devices are affordable, while still offering a rich user experience and access to hundreds of apps through the KaiStore.

“Cell-Ed provides trusted mobile learning materials for those who need them most,” said Sebastien Codeville, CEO of KaiOS Technologies. “We’re excited to join their 1 Million Learner Challenge to enable these learners with free access to crucial courses through KaiOS and the Life app, especially as this public health crisis continues to sweep through developing areas of the world.”

“I am very excited to continue working with KaiOS to make Cell-Ed’s skill-building courses and reputable COVID-19 guide available to millions of smart feature phone users around the world through the KaiOS Life app and WhatsApp. This will deliver life-saving and life-enhancing information to disproportionately impacted, yet profoundly resourceful, low-literate and low-income populations on a massive scale,” said Jessica Rothenberg-Aalami, CEO and founder of Cell-Ed. “I want to thank KaiOS for joining Cell-Ed’s 1 Million Learner Challenge and for their commitment to empowering people to reach their personal and professional goals.”

Users can download Life from the KaiStore, which is available worldwide, and gain instant, free access to high-quality educational and self-improvement materials in categories including Digital Skills, Health, Nutrition, Gender Equality, and Agriculture. Kai continues to expand the range of content available in Life, and is working with hardware partners to ensure the app comes pre-installed on KaiOS-powered devices.

For more details about the 1 Million Learner Challenge, please visit study.cell-ed.com.

About KaiOS Technologies

KaiOS Technologies powers an ecosystem of affordable digital products and services, and exists to empower people around the world through technology. Its flagship product, KaiOS, is the leading mobile operating system for smart feature phones with more than 135 million devices shipped in over 150 countries. Kai’s mission is to open up new possibilities for individuals, organizations, and societies by bringing mobile connectivity to the billions of people without internet in emerging markets, as well as providing those in established markets with an alternative to smartphones. KaiOS is based on HTML5 and other open web technologies. Devices running on the platform require limited memory, while still offering a rich user experience through access to apps like Google Assistant, WhatsApp, YouTube, Facebook and Google Maps.

About Cell-Ed

Cell-Ed is a mobile-first learning company based in Palo Alto, California, with a distributed worldwide workforce. Our science-based learning is proven to teach essential life and job skills more effectively and in a fraction of time by delivering engaging micro-lessons, coaching, and certificates over messaging and audio on any mobile device, even a basic phone. Currently, Cell-Ed’s 100+ partners in 14 countries deliver Cell-Ed programs such as language and digital literacy, numeracy, job skills and their own custom programs via our training, communications, and data analytics platform to better reach, teach, text, coach and upskill their learners and workers on any device. To learn more, visit www.cell-ed.com.

KaiOS Media Contact

Eletta Leung / Sarah Collins
eletta.leung@kaiostech.com / scollins@hoffman.com
+852 9139 3746 / +1 (206) 423-6081

Cell-Ed Media Contact

Aisling Carroll
aisling@cell-ed.com
+1 (510) 334-7887

Press releases

FISE announces the world’s first 4G phone with an integrated thermometer, running on KaiOS

Hong Kong, China <27 May 2020>  – Today FISE, provider of leading core solutions of intelligent hardware and KaiOS Technologies, maker of the leading mobile operating system for smart feature phones,  announced the world’s first 4G phone that includes a built-in infrared thermometer, allowing users to conduct temperature checks accurate down to 0.2 degrees Celsius. Developed in response to COVID-19 and the resulting urgent global demand for on-the-go temperature monitoring, this new KaiOS-enabled smart feature phone also comes with 4G connectivity, Google Assistant, and popular apps like WhatsApp, YouTube, Facebook, and Google Maps.

Real-time temperature monitoring is crucial to helping curb the global pandemic, and this new device makes checking your temperature easy and convenient. Users simply hold the thermometer near the subject’s forehead for just one second for a precise, contactless temperature reading. This is particularly valuable in emerging markets, where the digital divide limits access to medical tools and information, and mobile phones serve as individual’s most affordable and convenient gateway to the internet.

“One-touch temperature readings are essential in managing this global pandemic, and we’re proud to create a mobile device that makes such testing more accessible to the world,” said Tony Han, VP of FISE. “KaiOS is the perfect platform for creating a mobile device that’s both capable and affordable, allowing us to seamlessly combine a precise infrared thermometer with powerful internet and communications capabilities.”

“We’re excited to work with FISE to assist governments, medical professionals, and others in need throughout the struggle against COVID-19,” said Sebastien Codeville, CEO of KaiOS Technologies. “Mobile phones are ubiquitous in daily life; we hope that this solution for crucial temperature monitoring in an affordable, easy-to-use device will help prevent the spread of this disease and save lives around the world.”

This groundbreaking mobile device is available for testing and ordering now from FISE, and expected to ship to markets around the world in the coming months. If you’re interested in bringing this device to your market or exploring deployment options, please contact Windy Chen of FISE at windy.chen@fise.com.cn and Eddie Huang of KaiOS Technologies at eddie.huang@kaiostech.com.

About FISE

FISE Technology, founded in 2008, is headquartered in Shenzhen. As the leading provider of core solution of intelligent hardware, it offers professional schemes of intelligent hardware and electronic products such as mobile terminals, smart dressing and artificial intelligence, in the process of research and development, design and manufacture for global clients, with products sold to countries and regions of Americas, Southeast Asia, Africa and Europe.

FISE technology will continuously enhance its core competence in vision of  “Connect All. Connect Dreams”. By providing cutting-edged technology, products with high quality and professional services for customers, FISE aims at becoming the world’s leading core solution supplier for intelligent hardware.

About KaiOS Technologies

KaiOS  Technologies powers an ecosystem of affordable digital products and  services, and  exists to empower people around the world through technology. Its flagship product,  KaiOS, is the leading mobile operating system for smart feature phones with more than  135  million devices shipped in over  150  countries. Kai’s mission is to open up new possibilities for individuals, organizations, and societies by bringing mobile connectivity to the billions of people without internet in emerging markets, as well as providing those in established markets with an alternative to smartphones.  KaiOS  is based on HTML5 and other open web technologies. Devices running on the platform require limited memory, while still offering a rich user experience through access to apps like Google Assistant, WhatsApp, YouTube, Facebook and Google Maps.

FISE Technology Contact

Windy Chen / Tony Han
windy.chen@fise.com.cn / hanzt@fise.com.cn
+86 13421844861 / +86 15899785562

KaiOS Media Contact

Eletta Leung / Sarah Collins
eletta.leung@kaiostech.com / scollins@hoffman.com +1 206 423-6081