Safaricom and Huawei Introduce VybCall: Kenya’s Pioneer Video Ring Back Tone Service
In a groundbreaking move, Safaricom, in collaboration with Huawei, has unveiled VybCall, Kenya’s inaugural Video Ring Back Tone (VRBT) service. This innovation arrives two decades after the popular audio-based Skiza service revolutionized caller entertainment. VybCall elevates the calling experience by displaying engaging short videos to callers while they await connection.
Revolutionizing Caller Engagement with Video Content
Safaricom’s Chief Technology and Information Officer, James Maitai, emphasized the company’s dedication to enhancing customer experiences through innovation: “At Safaricom, we continuously seek to empower our users with personalized and dynamic interactions. The launch of Kenya’s first Video Ring Back Tone exemplifies our commitment to transforming everyday moments with creativity and cutting-edge technology.”
VybCall currently supports Safaricom Neon devices, select models from Samsung, Oppo, and Xiaomi’s Redmi A Series, with Vivo smartphones slated for compatibility by Q2 2026. Subscribers can activate the service by dialing *860# on eligible handsets or through the Safaricom App at vybcall.safaricom.com.
Empowering Kenyan Creators and Businesses
Huawei Kenya’s CEO, Gavin Gao, highlighted the broader impact of VybCall: “This platform offers Kenyan content creators a fresh avenue to showcase their talents. Huawei remains committed to partnering with industry leaders to develop innovative solutions that enhance user experiences and stimulate economic growth.”
For nearly 20 years, Skiza has been a staple in Kenyan households, enabling users to share favorite songs with callers. However, evolving content consumption trends-especially the surge in short-form video popularity globally-have prompted Safaricom to innovate and keep its offerings relevant.
Monetization and Marketing Opportunities Through VybCall
Beyond entertainment, VybCall presents a lucrative opportunity for businesses to monetize their content by customizing video ring back tones. This feature transforms waiting time into a strategic marketing channel, enhancing user engagement and providing brands with a competitive advantage in capturing audience attention.
Advancing Kenya’s Digital Landscape
The introduction of VybCall underscores Safaricom’s ongoing investment in refining customer touchpoints and propelling Kenya’s digital ecosystem forward. By integrating video technology into everyday communication, Safaricom is setting new standards for digital interaction in the region.
As of 2024, short-form video platforms have seen a 45% increase in user engagement in Kenya, reflecting a global trend that VybCall taps into by merging communication with dynamic visual content.
