Zimbabwe’s mobile giant NetOne is shaking up telecoms with a game-changing innovation, Reverse Calling. Simply put, you can now initiate a call even when you have no airtime, and the person you’re calling can choose to pay. Declined calls? No charges.
“📢 Introducing Reverse Calling 📢
No airtime? No problem. With Reverse Calling, initiate a call without airtime and the receiver pays at standard rates if they accept. Declined calls incur no charges to either party,” NetOne said in a statement seen by ZiGoats.
How It Works
Using Reverse Calling is straightforward:
- Dial 164 + recipient’s number (e.g., 16471XXXXXXXX or 16426371XXXXXXX)
- Or try a call with zero balance, then follow the voice prompt to request a Reverse Call
- Once the recipient accepts, the call proceeds normally. Declined calls? Neither party pays a cent.
Why It Matters
This isn’t just a tech gimmick. It’s practical, especially in emergencies or for late-night calls when airtime is low. In Zimbabwe, where electronic money isn’t universally accessible and some remote areas still operate largely cash-based, Reverse Calling ensures critical conversations aren’t blocked by low balances.
Imagine needing to contact family, a colleague, or a service provider urgently, now you can do it without scrambling for cash or airtime. For businesses, students, or anyone on the move, this feature could be a lifesaver.
Potential Challenges
While innovative, the feature relies on the recipient’s willingness to accept charges. Users in remote areas may still struggle with connectivity or high call costs. There’s also the potential for misuse if calls are sent repeatedly without consent. Still, the benefits far outweigh the downsides, especially for urgent communication needs.
Reverse Calling could redefine how Zimbabweans connect, making missed calls, low airtime, and emergencies less stressful. NetOne has shown that sometimes the simplest ideas, giving users control even when they’re out of credit, can have the biggest impact.
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