Zimbabwe’s Telecel has introduced a video calling service to allow prepaid subscribers with video calling capable Android or Symbian OS handsets to make video calls to other prepaid Telecel subscribers and have face-to-face conversations.

According to Telecel communications and branding director Obert Mandimika,“The introduction of the video calling service is centered on our objective of providing an ever wider range of products and services for different segments of our clientele.”

The video calls require devices with video call feature and 3G connectivity and a camera.

“If the video call fails the subscriber will be given the option of making a voice call,” he said.

Currently, the service is available only for on-net calls and for prepaid subscribers. Video calls are the next big revenue generator for telco as they require the use of data unlike voice calls however competition is set to be tough with WhatsAppp’s plans to launch video calls soon. Viber, LINE, Hike and several other apps also have similar services.