Hip Hop star Cassper Nyovest and AG Mobile have launched the AG#Hashtag, a 4G LTE smartphone, available exclusively through MTN. This is the first time that AG Mobile has collaborated on the design aspects and colour of the device with a celebrity.

According to AG Mobile CEO, Anthony Goodman, this is the next step in the company’s ongoing brand partnership with the celebrated musician, as well as for his flourishing career. “Our synergy is grounded on shared brand characteristics and objectives – we’re proudly local brands, working at something we’re passionate and successful at. We're sure South Africans will get behind us and support the innovation and collaboration by two strong local brands. The offering is just as good as our global competitors have to offer, that we can guarantee.”

He continues, “The AG#Hashtag isn’t just inspired by Nyovest - he actually played an integral part in the development, design and specifications of the device over the nine months it took to bring it to market. We’re incredibly proud of what we’ve created, in  fact it now stands as AG Mobile’s flagship device.”

Nyovest says, “To put it simply, the #Hashtag is dope! It was designed for someone who loves music, being in the mix, and socialising with their crew. Basically it has everything I would want in a phone so I’m giving a shout out to all my fans to check out the #Hashtag’s quality features and design, and then to change over to AG. They have my word that they’ll be getting great value!”

Larry Annetts, Chief Consumer Officer: MTN SA, adds, "MTN is pleased to be part of this exciting initiative to launch an LTE smartphone with our brand ambassador, Casper Nyovest. The launch of this handset gives expression to our strategy of providing our customers with a wide bouquet of smart devices to enable them to access our ubiquitous digital offerings and the rich world of data. This is one of the ways that MTN is leading the delivery of a bold new digital world to its customers."

Some of the high-end features specified by Nyovest include 4G LTE for faster data speeds, a 13 MP back camera and 5 MP front camera for awesome selfies, increased battery power, and a 5.5” Corning Gorilla 3 glass screen for watching music videos in high definition. It also boasts exclusive Cassper wallpapers which comes pre-installed with his app.

Recognised as the first mobile technology company to launch its own brand of phone in 2007, to date AG Mobile has released more than 60 devices. Goodman continues, “The AG#Hashtag aligns with our goals of producing quality, affordable devices and meeting the needs of the market, in this case Nyovest’s growing fan base. The excellent user experience is due to the inclusion of a MediaTek 1.5 GHz OctaCore processor, and, as with all our other devices, our efficient customer care centre will ensure excellent after-sales support for our customers.”

The AG#Hashtag’s features include:

• 4G LTE enabling faster data speeds for internet usage and browsing
• Android 5.1 Lollipop
• 5.5" HD IPS Corning Gorilla 3 Glass touchscreen
• 13 MP back camera with auto-focus and flash, quick capture, 4 x digital zoom, burst mode, Auto HDR, Panorama
• 5 MP front camera
• MediaTek 6753 OctaCore 1.5 GHz processor
• 16 GB ROM
• 2 GB RAM
• External memory (expandable to 128 GB)
• Functions supported: GPS, WIFI, Bluetooth 4.0, FM, Gravity Sensor, Accelerometer
• Multimedia player
• 2 500 mAh Li-ion battery with fast charge
• Accessories: protective cover, limited edition headphones

Available in a funky red – Nyovest’s  favourite colour – the AG#Hashtag will be available exclusively through MTN’s retail outlets and call centres. The device will cost R229 monthly (over 24 months) on an MTN MyChoice contract, while retailing for R3 499 on pre-paid. The phone is available on pre-order from 19 Apriluntil 10 May at www.mtn.co.za. Customers who pre-order and purchase a device on contract or pre-paid will receive a limited edition Cassper Nyovest autographed back cover for their AG#Hashtag (terms & conditions apply).