MOBILEFINANCIALNEWS
    HELP

    Phone Deals

    Phone Deals

    Unbeatable deals on all the latest smartphones.

    View All Deals

    Affordable and versatile deals made for you. 

    Sim Only Deals

    Pocket-friendly mobile and data plans.

    Internet deals

    Mobile Router Deals

    Data, on the go, wherever you go.

    Laptop Deals

    Just your type of laptop deals.

    Home Internet Deals

    Home is where the data is Wi-flying.

    Business Internet Deals

    Scalable connectivity to scale your business.

    Top Deals

    The best of the best deals on Mondo.

    Track My Application

    Quick, real-time updates on the status of your application.

    Your life

    Death Cover

    Secure your family's financial future.

    Your Car

    Total Loss Cover

    Protect your ride.

    Motor Warranty

    Cover your vehicle, from bumper to bumper.

    Your Finances

    Personal Loans

    Whether it’s for unplanned expenses or a well deserved holiday, we have the right credit solution for you.

    Mobile

    Your best bet for smartphone and data deals from SA's top networks!

    Financial

    Your new insurance assistant.

    Missed Calls

    There's no reason to miss us anymore!

    Mobile FAQ's

    Got a question? We've got the answer!

    Financial FAQ's

    Financial query? We can help!

    Opt Out

    Not up for a chat? Unsubscribe here.

    Contact Us

    We always want to know what you think. Let's chat!

      Pros and Cons of Mobile Payments: Convenient or Security Concern?

      Mondo Admin / 13-05-2024 / Tech

      Cash, Plastic or Smartphones?

      What’s your preferred way to pay for goods and services online or in-store? Chances are, you’re part of the rapidly growing number of South Africans who are tapping their phones to pay for everything from their morning coffee to online shopping sprees.

      Ditching coins and cards for mobile payments looks set to be the way of the future, especially when you consider this eye-opening statistic from Mastercard: 52% of South Africans have utilised smartphone and digital tap-and-pay platforms in the past year alone!

      If you’re considering joining the revolution or if you're already on board but still have security concerns, we've compiled all the pros and cons of mobile payment systems to help you make an informed decision.

      Cash is king but mobile payments are the new cha-ching 

      But before we dive in, here’s a brief overview of what mobile payment systems are, especially for the 'cash is king' and 'plastic is fantastic' folks in the house.

      Mobile payment systems can be defined as the contactless method of paying for items using your smartphone, but it can also extend to your other devices like smartwatches and tablets. Payments are mainly facilitated through apps, such as digital wallets with the popular ones being Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay. Other popular mobile payment platforms are banking apps, third-party QR-scanning platforms like Zapper and Standard Bank’s SnapScan, and Mastercard Click to Pay exclusively for online purchases.

      Here’s how mobile payments work using digital wallets as an example:

      If you want to pay for goods or services using Apple, Google, or Samsung Pay, you’ll first need to link your credit or debit card details to your digital wallet. Once everything is set up and authorised by your bank, you’re ready to make in-store, in-app, or online purchases with just a simple tap, click, or swipe of your phone. And just like that, you have a high-tech bank card.

      Pros & cons of mobile payment systems

      Here are all the pros and cons you should consider before using your mobile phone to make purchases:

      Pros

      Dodge the death stares

      You’re at the till, searching for your card or trying to find enough cash to pay for your stuff, only to realise you’re R5 short. Not only is the cashier giving you death stares, but so are the people waiting in line behind you. Now, your stress is through the roof, and you wish you stayed at home. Mobile payment systems eliminate this nightmare. All you have to do is present your smartphone to the point-of-sale device, authenticate the transaction, and bam! Your payment is processed almost instantly without the need for you to enter a PIN code. Most importantly, death stares are kept at bay!

      No longer feel the blues standing in payday queues

      As mobile payments gain traction, checkout lines are picking up the pace thanks to less time spent swiping cards, entering PIN codes, or dealing with loose change. Adding to this increased speed is the lightning-fast mobile transaction processing that leaves good old debit and credit cards in the dust. This makes mobile payment systems an incredible solution to speeding up queues during those chaotic payday weekends when lines seem to stretch into eternity.

      Fake information keeps criminals away

      The biggest concern many people have about mobile payment systems is their perceived lack of security. In reality, these systems are even more secure than debit and credit cards. How? Well, for starters, they require biometric authentication like fingerprint scans or facial recognition to make purchases. Secondly, your mobile device takes extra precautions by encrypting your payment information during transactions. Each transaction gets its very own unique security code, and your actual card number is swapped out for a random mix of letters and numbers, known only to your device. This means that even if someone with crime on their mind intercepts the transaction, they won't be able to access your real information.

      Cons

      No juice, no use

      We've all experienced the frustration of a dying phone battery at the worst possible moment. Now, imagine this happening when you’re about to make a purchase. This is the most glaring drawback of mobile payment systems. Their dependency on your phone's battery life means that if it runs out of juice, you're out of luck when it comes to completing transactions. Until we find a solution for endless battery life, this limitation will always be lurking. So, don’t forget to charge up and carry your power bank with you just in case.

      Cash & cards are the comfort zone 

      One thing about mobile payment systems is that there are a ton of options out there, it’s like trying to choose a show on Netflix. With mobile wallets, online banking apps, and third-party apps, it’s easy to feel like you're drowning in a sea of options, especially if you're new to the game. And to compound matters, the lack of standardisation and compatibility among these systems only serves to complicate matters. While more and more people are hopping on the mobile payment bandwagon, these hurdles could throw a wrench in the gears, particularly for those who aren't exactly tech-savvy and feel more comfortable using cash and cards.

      Closing the tech gap

      As with all things related to tech, there's a barrier to entry, especially in a developing country like South Africa. This barrier requires owning a smartphone equipped with Near Field Communication (NFC) technology to use digital wallets and banking apps. While NFC is available in almost all modern smartphones, even the most affordable ones, the reality remains that not everyone can afford them.

      This leaves a significant portion of the population excluded from this type of payment. The good news is that QR scanning for mobile payments serves as a workaround. This method doesn't require the latest smartphone models. You can easily find the necessary support for QR tech in many of the older smartphones, including the most affordable ones. Plus, transactions can also be made offline, making it even more accessible.

      Tapping into tomorrow

      Mobile payment systems are rapidly reshaping the way we transact, offering unparalleled convenience, efficiency, and security. Even though they have a few kinks to work out, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks. As technology continues to advance, mobile payments look set to become an indispensable part of our daily lives. So, next time you feel like indulging in a little retail therapy, you can tap, swipe, or scan your way to a smoother shopping experience!

      TECH NEWS

      previous
      Honor 200 Lite Review: The New Budget Hero?

      If you like your smartphones lightweight but heavy on the camera specs, you should consider the Honor 200 Lite.Honor has been promoting the phone’s sleek design, impressive camera, and competitive pricing of its newest device, but does it deliver on its promises? In this Honor 200 Lite review, we’re taking a look at the Honor 200 Lite's features, performance, and overall value. From its display quality to battery life, we’re covering all the aspects you need to know before committing with your cash.  Is the Honor 200 Lite the perfect budget smartphone for you?Let’s find out!Design and Build QualityThe Honor 200 Lite sports a high-quality plastic body with a sparkly, shimmer-like finish that adds to its premium feel. Here in South Africa, the phone is only available in two colours –  Starry Blue and Midnight Black.It’s a sleek looking device on the outside and when you unlock it, you’ll find that the design features carry over to the inside as well.  At the back you get a well-placed rear camera module, and on-screen you have minimal bezels, giving you a bigger screen effect for all your streaming marathons.Weighing in at just 166 grams, including the battery, the Honor Lite 200 is one of the lightest, slimmest models on the market right now, making it easy to carry around in your pocket, handbag or in hand.DisplayThe phone boasts a 6.7-inch AMOLED Sunlight display with a resolution of 2412 x 1080 pixels.This means get you vibrant and clear visuals whether you’re scrolling from the comfort of your couch or out in the bright South African sunshine.Touch responsiveness on the Honor 200 Lite is pretty smooth, really enhancing the user experience. You also have the option of multi-touch gestures with up to 10 touch points supported on screen, so if you’re into gaming, this device is a budget winner.PerformanceProcessor: CPU Model, MediaTek Dimensity 6080CPU Type: Octa-core processorsOperating System: MagicOS 8.0 (Based on Android 14)Memory: 8GB+256GBBattery4500 mAh (typical value)Charging Speed: 35W HONOR SuperChargeWired Charging: Support up to 11V/3.2A super chargeConnectivity Network Support: Supports 5G and 4G networks, LTE-FDD/LTE-TDDOther Connectivity Options: Includes Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.1Ports and Slots: Features a USB-C port, headphone jack.Additional Features: Face Recognition/One-Handed mode/Dark mode/Device Clone/Multi-Window/App Lock/App Twin/Keyboard Type includes Gestures, Three-key navigation and Navigation dock.Price and Value for MoneyWhen compared to similar models in the R7000 – R8000 price range, the Honor 200 Lite stands out with its superior camera capabilities and impressive design.While it performs similarly to previous Honor devices, it has room for improvement in when it comes to high-end gaming performance and software bloatware.Considering its features, performance, and price, the Honor 200 Lite offers good value for money, making it a strong contender in the budget smartphone market.It shines in the camera department, actually shimmers when it comes to design, and gives users impressive battery life off one charge.Final verdict on the Honor 200 Lite:Overall, the Honor 200 Lite is a solid choice if what you’re looking for a budget-friendly smartphone with impressive features and performance.If you want a new smartphone that you won’t have to sacrifice essential features or compromise on your budget for, the Honor 200 Lite is definitely worth considering.Ready to switch to the value-packed Honor 200 Lite? Click here to apply today!FAQsDoes the Honor 200 Lite support 5G?Yes, the Honor 200 Lite supports 5G connectivity, ensuring fast and reliable network performance.What is the battery life of the Honor 200 Lite?The phone has a 4500 mAh battery, providing up to a full day of use under mixed conditions.Does the Honor 200 Lite have expandable storage?Yes, it includes a microSD card slot for expandable storage, supporting up to 512GB.References: https://www.honor.com/za/phones/honor-200-lite/ 

      Read More...

      Unlimited Data Plans: Are They Really Worth It?

      Unlimited data plans make it easy to stream, download and browse as much as you want without worrying about limits.But deciding whether an unlimited data plan is worth your time and money comes down to one factor - understanding your usage patterns.To limit or to un-limit yourself?We've put together three tips to help you make your decision.Monitor your Data UsageDo you know how much data you use every month? This might seem like an obvious question, but many people do not have a clear idea of their data consumption. In South Africa, internet usage is notably high, with the average user spending over nine hours online every day. That's an entire workday!Despite this, the reality is that most people do not need unlimited data plans. Vodacom, the country’s largest mobile network operator, reported that the average monthly data usage on a smart device was 3.2GB at the end of December 2023. This is well below the high-speed data cap of most unlimited plans and means you will probably be paying for data that you don’t need.If you're unsure about your data usage, your smartphone can help. Both Apple and Android devices have built-in tools to monitor and manage data usage. By keeping an eye on these metrics, you can get a better understanding of your needs, and identify which apps are consuming the most data.Make Wi-Fi Your Friend When smartphones first became mainstream, unlimited data plans were more common and affordable because Wi-Fi wasn't as available. Today, however, you can access free Wi-Fi in many public places like coffee shops, restaurants, and shopping malls.By connecting to these networks whenever possible, you can significantly reduce your mobile data usage. This is especially useful if you spend a lot of time in places with reliable Wi-Fi. However, if you're always on the go, live in an area with poor Wi-Fi coverage, or have concerns about the security of public Wi-Fi, this might not be feasible, and an unlimited plan might make sense. Free Wi-Fi can also sometimes be weaker, leading to longer download times for images and buffering while watching videos.Check the Fine Print On paper, unlimited data seems like a great deal. You can use your smartphone as much as you want without ever being charged for overages. The word unlimited makes the plan sound more valuable, assuring you that you'll never have to worry about exceeding your data cap again.The truth is that most unlimited data plans are not truly unlimited. Data providers call these plans unlimited because they technically don't limit the total amount of data you can use. However, once you hit a certain threshold, often around the 20-25GB mark, your data speed might slow down significantly, which in turn will reduce video quality and make the experience less enjoyable. Additionally, some unlimited data plans are time-sensitive, offering more data at higher speeds during off-peak hours, typically late at night.Before considering a data plan, read the fine print to see what you are signing up for. Also, consider evaluating your needs and whether you truly need the freedom of unlimited data or if a smaller, more affordable plan would suffice.Verdict If you rely heavily on mobile data for internet access, an unlimited plan might make sense. It's also worth considering if you frequently travel to places without Wi-Fi or if your usage includes a lot of data-heavy activities like video streaming and gaming.When choosing between plans, there is no wrong choice, but unlimited data plans are significantly more expensive. If you’re on a budget and looking to save some Rands, it's important to understand your data usage and shop around for the best data plan for you.

      Read More...

      Top 5 Car Brands Protected by Roadwise Motor Warranty

      Ever wondered which cars are the most popular on South African roads that are protected by Roadwise Motor Warranty? As the leading provider of extended car warranties, we have all the details.But first, here’s a summary of what an extended car warranty is and why you need it:This type of cover keeps you financially protected against unexpected mechanical or electrical breakdowns by covering repairs or replacements for specific car parts and associated labour costs.All new cars in South Africa come with a factory warranty, but once it expires—based on years or mileage provided by the manufacturer—you’ll need an extended warranty.It pays out for all types of car parts, even the costliest, like engine parts, gearboxes, steering mechanisms, and fuel systems. A highly specialised cover, this goes beyond your car insurance and service and maintenance plans.Now, let’s unpack the most popular cars our customers are driving.1. ToyotaModel: CorollaAn icon on South African roads and the world’s best-selling vehicle, the Toyota Corolla is one of the most popular brands covered by Roadwise Motor Warranty. With over a million units sold in SA since 1975, the Corolla stands out as the preferred family car. We are honoured that so many of our customers trust us to financially protect them and their families from unexpected breakdowns. With Roadwise Motor Warranty, you can rest assured knowing your beloved Corolla is well cared for and remains reliable for years to come.2. VW Models: Polo and Polo VivoSouth Africa’s best-selling passenger vehicle in 2023 and currently still in the lead in 2024, the Polo Vivo unsurprisingly takes a spot on our list. It's joined by its pricier sibling, the Polo, both of which are locally-built hatchbacks that dominate South African roads. VW is one of the most loved brands in SA with a rich seven-decade history, and we’re proud that so many of our customers trust us to take care of these highly sought-after models. Renowned for their stylish design, robust build quality, and top-notch driving dynamics, the Polo and Polo Vivo show no signs of slowing down, especially with Roadwise Motor Warranty ensuring they stay on the road for longer.3. Ford Models: Figo, Fiesta, and KugaOur Ford customers come from all walks of life. Many students, first-time car buyers, small families, and those starting out in their careers choose our extended warranty for their Ford Figo or Ford Fiesta. These budget-friendly hatchbacks are known for their accessibility and reliability. The Ford Kuga also features on this list because South Africans simply love midsize SUVs that cater to their growing families and make excellent companions for epic road trips.4. Suzuki Models: Swift and JimnyOur Suzuki customer base is rapidly growing as more South Africans buy the Suzuki Swift or Jimny. It's hard to miss these cars on our roads these days compared to just a few years ago. Whether you opt for a Swift due to its unmatched value for money and stylish appeal or prefer the adventure-ready mini-SUV Jimny, one thing is certain: Roadwise Motor Warranty overs all your journeys.5. Renault Models: Duster, Clio, Sandero, and KwidA diverse range of Renault drivers opt for our extended warranty, from thrill-seekers tackling rough terrains with the muscular-designed Renault Duster SUV to city dwellers effortlessly navigating urban streets with the compact hatchbacks—the Clio and Sandero—and those seeking sporty and spacious options like the Renault Kwid, ideal for enjoying the great outdoors. This diversity underscores the trust our customers place in us to keep them protected, whether they're exploring off-road, cruising to the coast, or navigating busy city traffic.6. Nissan Models: X-Trail, Micra, and MagniteNissan deserves a spot on this list as we've noticed an increasing number of our extended warranty sign-ups from this legendary Japanese brand. Standout models include the luxurious Nissan X-Trail SUV, the compact and trendy Nissan Micra hatchback, and the comfortable Nissan Magnite crossover SUV. This highlights that whether you're a small family, large family, first-time buyer, or adventure enthusiast, you can always depend on Roadwise Motor Warranty, no matter where the road takes you.It’s no secret that we South Africans love our cars and take pride in keeping them well-maintained and running smoothly for years. Choose Roadwise Motor Warranty as your trusted partner for every road trip, daily commute, and of course, those spontaneous late-night drives.

      Read More...

      next