South Africa Overhauls Data Bundle Expiry Rules

South Africa’s communications regulator, Icasa, has introduced new rules to give mobile users more control over their airtime.

The changes come after complaints about rising data costs and users losing unused bundles. The aim is to make mobile services fairer and protect consumers.

From 23 January 2027, mobile operators will have to use older bundles first, allow most bundles to roll over automatically, and only charge for extra data if users choose to opt in. Icasa said:

“A Licensee must, at the end of the validity period of a bundle, rollover any unused bundle or portions thereof at least once, and subject the bundle rolled over to the same terms and conditions applicable to the original bundle, except for bundles that are 7 days or less, and excluding uncapped, free, and promotional bundles.”

The regulator also said that mobile operators must send alerts when a user’s bundle reaches 50%, 80%, and 100%, so people can keep track and manage their usage.

Icasa wants all eligible bundles to roll over automatically, making sure users don’t lose any unused data, minutes, or texts.

The regulator stressed that this should be free and shouldn’t require any action from the customer.

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