The majority of South Africans say cellphone costs are excessive, the results of a survey released on Friday by TNS Research Surveys show.
The survey found that 56% of metro adults said cellphone companies had not been charging a fair price for their services while 27% were satisfied with current rates.
The remainder gave a “don’t know” response.
The survey found there were also some differences by area, with West Rand and Durban people showing the highest level of dissent at 67% and 64% respectively.
While 27% feared cellphone companies cutting their charges would lead to service getting worse, 47% disagreed — with 26% giving a “don’t know” response.
“Hence, about half the metro population do not expect service levels to drop — a clear indication that many people do see cellphone costs as iniquitous.”
People in Soweto and Bloemfontein were the most anxious about poorer service (45% and 50% respectively).
The wealthier were the least likely to expect a drop in service levels if costs drop, where 55% expect no such drop.
“Given the considerable mentions made in the media about cellphone costs and the interconnection fee, it is to be expected that many people will feel that costs have been too high,” TNS Research Surveys said.
“What is perhaps surprising is that as many as 27% feel that costs are fair, showing how much a part of people’s lives cellphones have become.”
However, it was the wealthier parts of society who were the most critical — and who expected the most in terms of continued service levels. — Sapa