Ernst Fonternel on Pi by MTN and subscription-based connectivity

Pi by MTN is bringing subscription-style connectivity to South Africans with flexible mobile and home plans managed entirely through a digital platform.

Ernst Fonternel, Chief Consumer Officer at MTN South Africa, explains how Pi by MTN was designed around simplicity, transparency, and self-service. Customers can sign up digitally, activate an eSIM, change plans from month to month, purchase additional data or voice bundles, and manage multiple lines from a single account.

The discussion covers Pi by MTN’s approach to value, including multi-line discounts, 12-month data rollover, data sharing, and flexible subscription management. Fonternel also explains how mobile and home connectivity are being brought together, with fixed wireless access already available and fibre and AirFibre planned for the platform.

Looking ahead, Pi by MTN aims to become a broader digital lifestyle platform, bringing additional subscriptions into one place while introducing AI-powered customer support and recommendations.

0:00 Intro

0:25 What is Pi by MTN?

1:38 Simplifying mobile connectivity

4:47 Digital onboarding and eSIM

8:05 Early customer response

11:41 Value, discounts, and data rollover

13:53 Home connectivity

18:34 What’s next for Pi by MTN