Major Changes to Airtel’s HBB Offerings
This June 2025, Airtel has overhauled its 4G Home Broadband (HBB) products with significant changes to bundle options, pricing, and service accessibility. Based on internal documents and public information, this revamp introduces five new data bundles specifically designed for 4G HBB customers, while removing access to standard Open Market bundles for these users.
New Smart Connect WiFi Bundles
The company has replaced its previous Home Broadband offerings with a new “Smart Connect WiFi” product line, accessible via 1007#. The new bundles represent both a restructuring of options and an adjustment in pricing:
| Bundle Name | Price (UGX) | Data Allowance | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4G Smart Connect_Weekly_5GB | 10,000 | 5GB | Weekly |
| 4G Smart Connect_Monthly_15GB | 25,000 | 15GB | Monthly |
| 4G Smart Connect_Monthly_40GB | 50,000 | 40GB | Monthly |
| 4G Smart Connect_Monthly_110GB | 100,000 | 110GB | Monthly |
| 4G Smart Connect_Monthly_235GB | 200,000 | 235GB | Monthly |
Notable Change: The mid-tier monthly bundle now offers 40GB for UGX 50,000, which appears to be a new pricing structure compared to previous offerings. This represents a significant development for MiFi router users who previously may have had different bundle options at varying price points.
Key Changes in the HBB Service
- Menu Rebranding: The HBB menu on *100# has been renamed from “Home Broadband” to “Smart Connect WiFi,” signaling a repositioning of the product.
- Service Restrictions: 4G HBB service class numbers can now only access these specialized HBB bundles, losing access to standard Open Market data bundles that regular mobile users can purchase.
- New Customer Acquisition: A “Get Connected” option (Option 3 on the HBB menu) has been introduced, allowing customers to directly order 4G, 5G, or FTTH devices and services.
Comparative Analysis
While exact details of previous bundles aren’t provided in the documents, industry sources suggest this revamp represents:
- A simplification of the bundle structure from potentially more options to five core choices
- The introduction of higher-capacity bundles (110GB and 235GB) at premium price points
- A focus on creating a distinct product line separate from mobile data offerings
The UGX 50,000/40GB monthly bundle appears particularly significant as it offers substantial data for home users at a mid-range price point, potentially replacing previous offerings that may have provided different value propositions.
What This Means for Customers
For existing MiFi router users:
- They must adapt to the new bundle structure
- They can no longer purchase regular mobile data bundles
- They gain access to new high-capacity options
For potential new customers:
- The “Get Connected” feature makes service initiation easier
- The rebranding suggests Airtel is positioning this as a premium home internet solution
- The pricing structure offers clearer options for different usage needs
Industry Context
This move aligns with trends in the African telecom market where providers are increasingly differentiating between mobile data and fixed wireless/home broadband products. The restrictions on Open Market bundles suggest Airtel is implementing more stringent service segmentation to optimize network usage and revenue streams.
The introduction of higher-capacity bundles also reflects growing data consumption patterns among home users, particularly with the rise of streaming, remote work, and online education.
How to Access the New Bundles
Customers can:
- Dial 1007# to view and purchase the new Smart Connect WiFi bundles
- Use the *100# menu (now labeled “Smart Connect WiFi”) for account management
- Select Option 3 in the HBB menu to order new devices or services
Conclusion
Airtel’s HBB revamp represents a strategic shift in how the company approaches the home broadband market in Uganda. While the changes may require adjustment from existing customers, they offer more tailored options for home internet users and clearer differentiation between mobile and home broadband services.
As with any major service change, customers are advised to review their data needs against the new bundle options and consider whether the higher-capacity offerings might provide better value for their usage patterns.
