Glamour’s favourite, Maps Maponyane, actor, model, presenter and all-round super star, spoke to us about why the high cost of data when he was in varsity made him switch to the Opera Mini browser and never look back.
Mail & Guardian: Hey Maps, thanks for sitting down this us so close to Christmas, what are your plans this year?
Maps Maponyane: No problem at all! I’m looking forward to having all my close family around, cooking up a storm and having a laugh with everyone. It’s been a crazy year, and it’ll be great to chill out before a busy 2022. Opera has prepared some cool gifts for its users, so I am happy to tell you more about my favourite browser and invite others to check it out!
M&G: So, why do you use Opera?
MM: I’ve been using Opera Mini since the end of matric. My friends told me about a cool new browser that was really light on data costs – helpful for a student! – and worked the same as other browsers. Now I wouldn’t dream of using anything else.
M&G: When do you use Opera Mini?
MM: I use it every day to keep on top of the latest stories and trends. When travelling, especially when I’m on safari or have spotty service, Opera Mini keeps me connected.
In these times, data is so important to stay connected and keep your finger on the pulse. Especially at Christmas time, when loved ones might be far away, the power of connection is all the more important to bring people closer together. So big up to Opera for launching a data giveaway to celebrate its 15th birthday. 150 users will win 150GB of data.
If you’d like to join the fun, like Opera’s post on Facebook or Instagram, and comment why Opera is important to you using #CelebrateWithOpera.
The competition closes 15th January. Don’t miss out!
M&G: Tell me about your #CelebrateWithOpera story.
MM: Sure! I started using Opera Mini in varsity for my research. I love that I’m still able to do the same when sourcing information for my businesses.
Opera Mini is also super helpful for connecting to the internet when I’m on the move with limited battery life. The battery saver lets me browse 35% longer, keeping me connected to my followers and colleagues.
I’m looking forward to reading other people’s stories, so don’t miss your chance to participate in Opera’s data giveaway!
M&G: What’s your favourite feature?
MM: The design is so sleek and user-friendly, and I also love that I can save web pages for offline reading, set my preferred language, bookmark my favourite sites, and personalise my newsfeed. Sorry, I know you only asked for one..!
M&G: Why are data savings so important in South Africa?
MM: High data costs mean lots of people struggle to access the internet. It’s why Opera Mini is so great, it allows users to save 90% of their data when browsing and connecting with friends on their free in-built messenger – Hype. They even partner with some of Africa’s biggest telecoms, giving away up to 3GB of data per month per Opera Mini user. Pretty cool!
M&G: What would you say to people who haven’t tried Opera Mini yet?
MM: Give it a go! Opera Mini has it all. User-friendly, customizable, saves you money, and keeps you connected with family and friends, all at a faster speed.
The terms & conditions for participation in #CelebrateWithOpera is available here.