Samsung, Ooredoo in partnership deal

Ooredoo and Samsung executives at the signing ceremony. Right below: The Ooredoo logo.

Samsung Electronics has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Ooredoo, formerly known as Qtel Group, under which the two will collaborate on projects to accelerate the growth of mobility and Internet adoption across all Ooredoo markets, with a strong focus on Qatar and Indonesia.

In particular, Samsung was drawn to Ooredoo’s ability to provide innovative products to the youth segment – a strategy highlighted by the launch of Samsung’s Galaxy Y series for younger consumers.

About 40% of customers in Ooredoo’s key markets are under 25 years of age, and the company has placed particular emphasis on providing data services that enrich lives and create new opportunities.

“We are excited to partner with Samsung, one of the world’s leading technology companies,” said Ooredoo Group chief commercial officer Cynthia Gordon.

“It is clear that they share our belief that mobile communications can help people, and especially young people, realise their full potential. Like us they are considering mobility as a platform for empowerment and enrichment.

“Together, we will not only work hard to bring better deals to our customers, but also create a lasting legacy that improves connectivity among youth and businesses.”

Samsung Mobile Business (Middle East and Africa) vice-president Sunghak Jang said: “Samsung is pleased to collaborate with Ooredoo, a leading international operator that drives faster mobile Internet adoption.

“Ooredoo has been focused on empowering people via connected mobile devices and has a clear understanding of the needs of customer in emerging markets. I am very confident that this will be just the start of a highly successful collaboration.”

Samsung is the world’s smartphone leader and number one provider of Android-powered smart mobile devices, according to research companies Canalys and Gartner, boosted by its successful Galaxy series of smartphones and tablets.

In Qatar, Samsung and Ooredoo will explore opportunities to help Ooredoo enhance its QR1bn fibre project to deliver high-speed Internet and next generation television services across the country by 2014, by supporting multi-screen service offerings.