New MVNO in Iran Selling SIM Cards

EghtesadOnlien: Mobile Virtual Network Operator ApTel, owned by the telecoms company NeginTel, has started sale of SIM cards in Iran. It is one of the first companies among more than 20 firms which had announced they would start offering new mobile networks.

News ID: ۷۷۶۸۷۸

10 June 2017

The MVNO received its license in 2016 when the Telecoms Ministry licensed dozens of firms to offer both 'full' and 'light' services, meaning several new mobile Internet and telecom companies could compete with established operators like Mobile Communications of Iran (MCI), and MTN-Irancell.

According to the company's June 8 press release via social media channels, the firm will now offer "4G+" Internet SIM cards to users.

The website does not state how much the calls, texts and Internet will cost to prospective customers as its website has not listed prices yet, according to Financial Tribune.

New users can also buy SIM cards up to the value of 990 million rials ($24,000); however, other SIM cards at much lower prices are also available.

The firm previously signed an agreement with Tabriz-based Tractor Sazi Football Club in May to offer branded SIM cards for fans of that club under the brand AzarTel.

AzarTel SIMs will be licensed from the local MVNO and offer contract SIMs to supporters of the northwestern football club.

CEO of the group, Masoud Vakilinia had said at the time, that there was mutual cooperation [with NeginNel] to release AzarTel post-paid SIMS. Such a SIM card could be revolutionary in boosting prospects and autonomy of football clubs.

Other operators available include Shatel Mobile, SamanTel, FANAP, AryanTel, Bistalk Mobile and BaharTel, among which some have begun marketing their products.