South African mobile users will soon be able to keep their unused data, voice minutes, and SMS under new regulations set to take effect early next year.
The rules, gazetted by the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA), require telecom operators to automatically roll over any unused mobile data bundles at no additional cost and without users needing to opt in. This means data will no longer simply expire at the end of a bundle.
In addition, users will be able to transfer unused data, voice minutes, and SMS to other users on the same network, giving consumers greater flexibility and value for money.
The changes are aimed at strengthening consumer protection and improving affordability in the mobile sector. Some mobile operators have expressed concerns about the technical and operational challenges of implementing the new rules.
ICASA has confirmed that the regulations will come into effect in early 2027.