This is pretty neat - Vodafone is really trying to provide a service to developing countries. Not only are they offering handsets at super cheap prices, but the users can do really useful stuff - like handle money transfers, even if they don't have a bank account, according to the article at Spiegel Online.

They're up against some pretty tough challenges. They don't have big name brand recognition, plus late entry into the market, and the expense necessary to market and penetrate their consumer base - but I think their willingness to be so flexible just might help them win it out.