Safaricom customers can now access a brand new 4G-enabled smartphone by paying as low as Ksh 20 daily for the devices.

In a unique partnership with Google, the innovative device financing project a first in the world will see Safaricom give qualifying customers easier access to the internet through the Neon Ray Pro, a 4G Android (Go edition) smartphone.

The world first initiative dubbed Lipa Mdogo Mdogo in partnership with Android, Google’s operating system for mobile, will allow qualifying customers access to the internet and the world of possibilities through a smartphone that they can pay-as-they-use on a daily or weekly basis.

“We are delighted today to launch this product in line with our pillar of customer-centricity. Today, everyone is going through tough economic times. This product comes as a testament to our commitment to our purpose of transforming lives,” said Peter Ndegwa, Safaricom CEO.

Ndegwa noted that Smartphones in the hands of customers, possess life-transforming possibilities. “They open a new world. We aim to take that world into the hands of every consumer through affordable means.”

The initiative, Ndegwa said targets 1million customers who will be integrating from 2G enabled devices to 4G.

He noted that currently 17 percent of it’s subscribers use 4G enabled smartphones which translates to 6million subscribers. The initiative, Ndegwa said will see 80 percent penetration of 4G enabled smartphones in the next five years.

“Android’s goal has always been to bring the power of computing to everyone. Access to the opportunities the internet offers is critical for any nations’ economic growth and social inclusion,” said Mariam Abdullahi, director Android and platforms partnerships for Africa.

“We believe that this collaboration will bring more Kenyans online and help them take advantage of the opportunities that exist online.” Said Abdullahi.

The project seeks to empower customers currently on 2G devices to upgrade and enjoy high-speed internet connectivity.

To participate, customers need to dial *544# and accept the terms and conditions to opt into the service, after which they will receive an SMS approval of their eligibility and the value of the device they can purchase under the service.

Eligibility of the financing plan will be based on customer credit score. The subscriber will need a history with Safaricom network going back at least one year and be between 18-75 years of age.