Unitel, also known as Lao Unitel or Unitel Lao, is the leading mobile network operator in Laos. Founded in 2008, it has quickly become a major player in the telecommunications industry, offering a wide range of services including voice, data, and messaging to both residential and business customers. In this article, we will take an in-depth look at Unitel Laos, its history, services, coverage, and market share, and explore what makes it the top choice for mobile users in Laos.
History of Unitel Laos
Unitel Laos was established in 2008 as a joint venture between the Lao government’s Lao Asia Telecom Co., Ltd. and Vietnamese telecom giant Viettel Group. Initially, the company faced strong competition from existing mobile operators in Laos, but through strategic partnerships and aggressive marketing strategies, it managed to gain a significant market share within its first year of operation.
In 2012, Unitel Laos launched its 3G services, becoming the first and only operator in Laos to offer high-speed mobile internet. This further solidified its position as the leading mobile operator in the country. In recent years, the company has continued to expand its network and services, introducing 4G LTE in 2017 and launching its online payment platform UniPay in 2020.
Services Offered by Unitel Laos
Unitel Laos offers a variety of services to meet the needs of its diverse customer base. From basic voice and messaging services to high-speed internet and digital payment solutions, here are some of the key services offered by the company:
Voice Services
Unitel Laos offers a range of voice services, including prepaid and postpaid plans, international calls, and value-added services such as call waiting, caller ID, and voicemail. Customers can choose from a variety of packages based on their usage and budget, with options for both local and international calls.
Data Services
With the launch of 3G in 2012 and 4G LTE in 2017, Unitel Laos has become a major player in the data services market. Customers can access high-speed internet on their mobile devices through data plans or by purchasing data packages. The company also offers a range of value-added services such as music streaming, video streaming, and social media bundles.
Messaging Services
Unitel Laos provides messaging services including SMS, MMS, and group messaging. Customers can also subscribe to additional messaging services such as ringback tones and premium SMS services. The company also offers messaging platforms for businesses, allowing them to communicate with their customers through bulk messaging.
Unitel Carrier offers the best prepaid sim for Laos
Comparison of Unitel Laos’ Prepaid Packages
PACKAGE NAME |
PRICE (KIP) |
DATA |
VOICE CALLS |
SMS |
Easy Fun |
5,000 |
50 MB |
15 min |
10 |
Light |
30,000 |
500 MB |
60 min |
30 |
Basic |
50,000 |
1 GB |
120 min |
50 |
Super |
100,000 |
2 GB |
240 min |
100 |
Ultimate |
200,000 |
4 GB |
480 min |
200 |
Besides, if you want to travel in Laos for 7-15 days. You can choose Unitel’s esim comes with prepaid data plan.
eSIM Package |
Laos eSIM Travel 15GB For 10 Days |
Laos eSIM Travel 30GB For 15 Days |
DATA |
15 GB |
30 GB |
VALID |
10 DAYS |
15 DAYS |
Network operator |
Unitel / Star Telecom |
Unitel / Star Telecom |
eSIM phone number |
Yes |
Yes |
Plan activation method |
Dial 121 |
Dial 121 |
Top-up: |
Yes |
Yes |
Hotspot/Tethering: |
Yes |
Yes |
Link to buy |
Click here |
Click here |
Laos eSIM Travel 15GB For 10 Days
- Validity: 10 days
- Data: 15 GB
- Network operator: Unitel / Star Telecom
- Coverage: Laos
- eSIM phone number: Yes
- Plan activation method: Dial 121
- Price: $7.00
Laos eSIM Travel 30GB For 15 Days
- Validity: 15 days
- Data: 30 GB
- Network operator: Unitel / Star Telecom
- Coverage: Laos
- eSIM phone number: Yes
- Plan activation method: Dial 121
- Price: $12.90
Unitel Coverage Map and Market Share in Laos
Unitel Laos has the largest network coverage in Laos, reaching almost 97% of the country’s population. This extensive coverage has allowed the company to capture a significant share of the market, with over 5 million subscribers as of 2021. According to a report by the Lao National Internet Center, Unitel Laos holds approximately 60% of the market share in the telecommunications industry, making it the dominant player in the country.
Subscribers by Region
Unitel Laos has a strong presence in both urban and rural areas of the country. Its subscriber base is distributed across all provinces of Laos, with the highest number of subscribers in Vientiane, followed by Savannakhet and Champasak.
Competition in the Market
While Unitel Laos holds the majority of the market share in Laos, it faces competition from other mobile operators such as Lao Telecom and ETL (Enterprise of Telecommunications Lao). However, Unitel Laos has managed to stay ahead of its competitors through its extensive network coverage, competitive pricing, and innovative services.
Customer Satisfaction and Awards
Unitel Laos has received numerous awards and recognition for its services and customer satisfaction. In 2020, the company was awarded the Best Digital Service Provider in Laos by the World Branding Awards. It has also received awards for Fastest Mobile Network and Best Data Services from Ookla, an internet speed testing and analysis company.
Unitel Laos is also known for its excellent customer service, with a dedicated call center and online support available for its customers. The company has invested in digital platforms to make it easier for customers to manage their accounts, purchase services, and top up their balances.
FAQs
Unitel Laos uses both GSM and CDMA technologies for its mobile services.
Yes, Unitel SIM cards can be used in several countries, including Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand, through roaming agreements.
Yes, Unitel offers international roaming services for both voice and data, allowing customers to stay connected while traveling abroad.
Yes, you can switch to Unitel without changing your phone number through the Mobile Number Portability (MNP) service.
Unitel has formed partnerships with various companies and organizations, including banks, government agencies, and international telecom operators, to provide additional services and benefits for its customers.
Final Words
Unitel Laos has undoubtedly made its mark in the telecommunications industry in Laos, offering high-quality services, extensive coverage, and innovative solutions for its customers. With its continuous efforts to expand its network and improve its services, it is poised to maintain its position as the leading mobile operator in the country for years to come. Whether it is for personal or business use, Unitel Laos remains the top choice for mobile users in Laos.