Mobile networks come with their own language—think APNs, eSIMs, 4G, 5G, and more. If you're new to AirMobile or just want to understand what all the buzzwords mean, you’re in the right place.

This glossary is your quick-reference guide to all the key terms and tech behind AirMobile.

Let’s dive in.

First up, AirMobile has three main offerings: Monthly, Prepaid and Data Only. It’s important to understand the differences between them so you can choose the one that best fits your needs.

Monthly

From R29.00 per month
Contract-free airtime and mobile data with the flexibility you need—no long-term commitments.

Prepaid

From R10.00
Customize your airtime and mobile data exactly how you want. You’re in full control.

Data Only

From R25.00 per month
Month-to-month mobile data for Wi-Fi devices and tablets—simple, no fuss.

For a detailed comparison, learn more here.

Air2Air

A term used for calls made from one AirMobile number to another.

AirID (or AirID Promo Code)

A unique code tied to your AirMobile number. (When someone signs up using your code, both of you get 5GB of mobile data once the new user verifies their payment details.)

APN (Access Point Name)

The settings your phone needs to connect to the internet using mobile data. It’s what you configure on your device to use AirMobile’s data services like browsing, streaming, and sending MMS.

AirShare™

A handy feature that lets you send or receive airtime or mobile data to and from another AirMobile user from the Afrihost AirMobile App. Just a heads-up: promotional airtime or mobile data can’t be transferred—only your main balance.

Auto Top Up

A feature that automatically adds mini bundles of airtime or mobile data to your account when you're running low. You set a maximum limit, so you won’t be caught off guard by surprise charges - and you’ll still have airtime or mobile mobile data when you need it.

Afrihost AirMobile App

The official app for managing your AirMobile account. From checking your balance to topping up or managing settings.

Call rate

The cost per minute of making a call on your mobile. Call rates can vary depending on who you're calling (e.g. local, international) You can find AirMobile call and SMS rates here.

ClientZone

The main tool for managing all your Afrihost products and services.

Coverage

Refers to the areas where you can get a mobile signal. AirMobile uses MTN towers, so you’ll have coverage wherever you go, including major cities, towns, and national roads.

eRICA

A system for registering your SIM card in South Africa. It’s a quick, online process required by law to activate your AirMobile number.

eSIM

A digital SIM that lets you activate your AirMobile plan without a physical SIM card. It’s convenient, fast, and great for dual SIM use. Tip: Check if your phone or device is compatible before signing up.

Porting

The process of transferring your phone number from one network to another. With AirMobile, you can keep your existing number when switching to us.

Roll over

A feature that lets your unused airtime and mobile data carry over into the next month. If you don’t use all your mobile data or airtime, it’ll roll over, giving you extra time to use it. However, once the rollover period ends, any unused balance expires. Learn more about AirMobile airtime and mobile data top up rollover here.

USSD

Stands for Unstructured Supplementary Service Data. It’s a quick, menu-based service you can use to check your balance, top up, or access other features without needing an internet connection.

AirMobile USSD codes:

Option	USSD Code
Product options – Main menu	*135#
Voicemail preferences	*135*5#
Balance menu	*136#

Now that you’ve got the basics down, you’re all set to make the most of your AirMobile experience. If you have any questions, feel free to leave them in the comments below or reach out to us on our social media pages.