Telecom companies Grameenphone and Banglalink have entered into the device business amid a recent decline in voice and data service usage.

The two mobile network operators recently signed an agreement with the same company—Ismartu Technology BD—to sell mobile handsets at their respective customer care centres.

Grameenphone in collaboration with PalmPay, launched the campaign where customers can choose from a range of popular Tecno and itel Smartphone models, available at all Grameenphone Centers (GPCs) and selected partner outlets across the country. 

To ensure responsible borrowing and secure repayments, smartphones purchased under this scheme will feature a smart locking system. This system provides periodic payment reminders and safeguards the device in case of non-payment, ensuring a secure and user-friendly experience for customers.

Grameenphone Chief Product Officer Solaiman Alam said the mobile network operator believes that digital connectivity should be within everyone’s reach. “Our partnership with PalmPay reflects our unwavering commitment to making smart phones more affordable and accessible,” he said.

“By empowering more people to join the digital ecosystem, we are taking another step toward a digitally empowered and connected Bangladesh,” says Mehedi Al Amin, marketing operations director at Banglalink.

Jun Zeng (Ethan), managing director of PalmPay, added that smart phone access is a gateway to digital education, financial inclusion, and new economic opportunities. “With this initiative, we are enabling millions of Bangladeshis to embrace digital life through a secure and accessible financing model,” he said.