Ethio Telecom Thursday launched a new line of cloud-powered smart devices and workspace solutions under the Znexus brand, aiming to make smartphones and digital services more accessible across Ethiopia.
The initiative targets the “usage gap,” where millions remain digitally excluded despite widespread network coverage.
Ethiopia had about 85 million mobile subscriptions in early 2025, but only around 28.6 million people, or 21 percent of the population, were internet users, according to data from Data Reportal.
High device costs and limited supply have slowed smartphone adoption.
While connectivity has improved, many Ethiopians continue to rely on basic 2G or 3G feature phones, limiting their access to services such as digital payments, e-learning, health applications, and e-governance platforms.
Speaking at the event, CEO of Ethio Telecom chief executive Firehiwot Tamiru said Znexus is designed to make digital inclusion real, giving individuals, enterprises, and communities the tools to participate fully in the digital economy,”
“Znexus devices combine affordability with cloud-powered functionality. They feature extended battery life, simplified interfaces, integrated cloud storage, and preloaded services including telebirr, educational content, social media apps, games, and news,” she said.
Tamiru said the range includes the Znexus 127 Lite, 131 Lite, and 2028 Lite models, offering a “smart phone-lite” experience for first-time users, rural communities, students, and elderly customers.
The rollout builds on Ethio Telecom’s recent infrastructure expansion, which now covers 71 percent of the population with 4G and deploys 5G in 26 towns
In parallel, Ethio Telecom is introducing Cloud Workspace solutions for businesses and organizations.
These allow secure access to virtual desktops and applications via Znexus devices, laptops, and thin clients, offering scalable resources, multi-layered security, and reduced IT overhead through a pay-as-you-go model.
Bundled packages combine devices, connectivity, cloud storage, and services, creating a seamless and cost-effective experience for users.
The initiative is part of the company’s “Next Horizon: Digital and Beyond 2028” strategy, which now focuses on bridging the usage gap after achieving extensive network coverage.
MG/as/APA