South African subscribers on 8ta’s mobile network service will now be able to access the internet for free on a zero balance from their mobile phones if and when they want to.

The new initiative a partnership between the mobile operator and global search engine, Google, is aptly titled Free Zone. It is powered by the search engine and allows free Google search services as well as access to Gmail and Google Plus.

8ta senior managing director, Amith Maharaj made the announcement in Cape Town, South Africa today and said that the partnership is a first for the country.

“Today South Africa has been given free internet,” said Maharaj.

He also said, “8ta’s billing systems has allowed the company to make this service available to its customers.”

The company website states that existing and potential customers don’t need a data plan to use Google Free Zone as it is free. 

And to access the service subscribers have to go on their phone’s default internet browser and sign into the Free Zone portal with their Google account details.

The offer is promotional and is available immediately until 31 May 2013.

8ta is the mobile arm of South African fixed line operator, Telkom.