From Connectivity to Services: PortaOne’s IoT Solutions Transforming the Telco Landscape in Africa

During MWC Barcelona 2024, Akim Benamara and Andriy Zhylenko, CEO of PortaOne , discussed their latest developments, highlighting their innovative approach to addressing challenges in IoT deployment and the evolving landscape of Telco services.

Andriy revealed a groundbreaking addition to their offerings: a hardware kit for Rapid IoT deployments. This solution aims to streamline the process for companies venturing into IoT innovation by providing a tested and ready-to-use hardware platform dubbed “IoT Mill,” likened to a Raspberry Pi but tailored specifically for IoT projects. By eliminating the complexities of hardware circuit design and manufacturing, as well as addressing issues such as microchip shortages, PortaOne aims to empower companies to swiftly launch and scale their IoT initiatives.

IoT for Telos is not just about connectivity; it’s about integrating companies into the IoT ecosystem, enabling startups to deliver services faster with a higher rate of success.

Andriy Zhylenko, CEO, PortaOne

In discussing Telco revenue streams, Andriy emphasized the transformative potential of IoT for Telos, particularly in contrast to the traditional focus on selling SIM cards as commodities. He argued that IoT presents an opportunity for Telos to not only provide connectivity but also to integrate companies into the broader IoT ecosystem. By offering IoT Mill devices and complementary services, Telos can foster innovation among startups while creating sustainable business models.

Regarding the integration of AI in Telco operations, Andriy shared insights into PortaOne’s internal adoption of AI for process optimization. While acknowledging the industry-wide trend towards AI-driven customer interactions, he stressed the importance of leveraging AI to enhance customer experience and streamline operations This interview provides valuable insights into PortaOne’s vision for the future of Telco services and highlights the company’s commitment to enabling innovation and success in the rapidly evolving telecommunications landscape.

Instead of customers having to call a call center or navigate a website, AI should facilitate seamless interactions, ultimately enhancing customer experience. Telcos need to embrace AI-driven solutions to stay competitive in the rapidly evolving telecommunications industry and meet the increasing demands of tech-savvy consumers.

Andriy Zhylenko, CEO, PortaOne