For many years, South African mobile users have expressed dissatisfaction with the prevalent practice of data expiring before they can fully utilize it-a policy upheld by the nation’s leading network providers. In 2019, the Competition Commission’s investigation into the mobile data market uncovered that South Africa’s top mobile operators rank among the most lucrative worldwide, yet they persist with data expiration rules. Parliament criticized these policies as “exploitative and unconstitutional,” emphasizing that consumers should retain access to data they have already paid for, regardless of time limits. Despite this, major operators such as MTN, Cell C, and Vodacom justify data expiry as necessary for managing network load and pricing strategies.
This growing discontent has sparked interest in alternatives that empower users with greater flexibility over their data usage. Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs), which operate on the infrastructure of the main networks, have emerged as popular options. The MVNO sector has seen rapid expansion, boasting around 4.8 million active subscribers by the end of 2024, with projections estimating growth to 12 million users by 2029, reflecting an 18% annual increase.
South Africa’s MVNO market is notably diverse, with various providers catering to distinct customer segments through customized services. Some integrate mobile connectivity with financial products, while others enhance customer loyalty via retail incentives or lifestyle benefits. Although these MVNOs offer data that never expires, users often experience slower speeds during peak periods due to network deprioritization. Nevertheless, many consumers prioritize the cost-effectiveness and data longevity these services provide.
Below is an overview of MVNOs in South Africa that provide data without expiration:
Capitec Connect
Launched in 2022, Capitec Connect has attracted 1.6 million active users. Utilizing the Cell C network, it offers affordable data packages starting at R4.50 for 100MB.
“Capitec Connect offers budget-friendly data and airtime, but the network issues are increasingly frustrating,” shared Asher Ndlovu, a remote graphic designer. “I’ve been a user for nearly a year, but often the connection is weak, even for receiving calls.”
Standard Bank Connect
Initially introduced in 2018 as Standard Bank Mobile, this service was rebranded in 2024 to reflect its expanded features and new MVNO partnership with MTN. It combines banking services with mobile connectivity, rewarding users by converting bank fees into airtime and providing discounts on tech accessories through partners like Dress Your Tech. Certain data bundles, including 500MB and 1GB options, come with the benefit of non-expiring data. Customers can select from two main plans: Connected Circles, which includes voice and data, and Connected Gigs, focused solely on data.
“MTN’s daily data is affordable, but I often don’t use it all,” said Keneilwe Mokoena, an informal trader from Johannesburg. “With Standard Bank Connect, my data remains available until I choose to use it. Even if there’s buffering, I can still access it later.”
FNB Connect
FNB Connect, First National Bank’s mobile service, operates on MTN’s network and serves nearly one million active users. It integrates seamlessly with FNB’s digital banking platform, allowing users to manage mobile services alongside their finances. While pricing is competitive, user experiences vary, with some reporting strong initial reception followed by connectivity issues.
“I switched from Cell C to FNB Connect a month ago and had excellent reception for the first two weeks. After that, the signal deteriorated so much that I couldn’t make calls,” explained Charles, a communications consultant who preferred to use only his first name.
Spar Mobile
Launched in 2025 through a collaboration with megsApp, Spar Mobile operates on MTN’s network and offers data that never expires, coupled with in-store rewards. Its starter pack includes 300MB of data and R10 airtime, with additional permanent data earned through qualifying Spar purchases. megsApp’s model ensures all data and airtime remain valid indefinitely, with bundles ranging from daily to long-term plans.
“I expected Spar Mobile to match MTN’s speed, but it’s somewhat slower. However, I save a lot on data bundles. When the speed drops, I just wait it out or ask a friend to help. At least I’m not losing money,” said Ayanda Zondi, a school transport driver.
Pick n Pay Mobile
Since its 2020 launch, Pick n Pay Mobile has utilized the MTN network to offer shoppers the convenience of purchasing airtime and data while grocery shopping, rewarding them with bonus data for their purchases.
In 2025, the platform introduced a significant app update, enhanced eSIM activation, and focused on flexible recharge options, prepaid bundles, and exclusive grocery-linked mobile data rewards, further enhancing the appeal of its non-expiring data plans.
Trace Mobile
Trace Mobile entered the South African market in 2015, quickly amassing over 1.4 million subscribers within 18 months. Originally a Cell C reseller, it evolved into a full MVNO targeting young adults aged 16 to 35. Its standout features include free music streaming, live TV channels, and lifestyle rewards, which contributed to its rapid growth.
“It’s ideal for streaming without worrying about data depletion,” said Lisa Mthembu, a high school student. “I can listen to music anytime without high costs, though the network slows down during peak hours.”
Crave Connect
Launched in 2025 and operating on MTN’s network via megsApp, Crave Connect offers a blend of non-expiring data, digital wallet services, and loyalty rewards. Users who spend R50 or more on airtime or data receive 1GB of free data monthly.
YOMO
Newly introduced in September, YOMOverse (YOMO) runs on Cell C’s network and targets youth with entertainment perks and zero-rated platforms. Its mission is to connect one million young South Africans through affordable, expiry-free data packages. The platform collaborates with youth-focused organizations to provide resources aimed at enhancing digital skills, according to founder Jose Andre, who also leads Technov8, a BLU Group subsidiary specializing in AI and XR solutions for industrial and public sector digital transformation.
While the appeal of data that never expires is strong across these MVNOs, users should consider the trade-off of reduced speeds during busy network periods.
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