How To Share Data From MTN To Airtel [What You Really Need to Know]
Have you ever tried sharing your data from MTN to Airtel, hoping to help a friend or family member stay connected? The idea of transferring data between these two popular networks sounds convenient, but is it really possible? In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about how to share data from MTN to Airtel, what alternatives exist, and how you can stay connected across different networks.
Can You Share Data From MTN To Airtel?
The short and simple answer is: No, you cannot share data directly from MTN to Airtel. There is currently no feature provided by either network that allows data transfer between the two. Data sharing is typically limited to users within the same network, meaning you can share data from MTN to another MTN line, but not to Airtel or any other network like Glo or 9mobile.
Is Data Transfer Between Different Networks Possible?
It’s understandable why you’d want to share data between MTN and Airtel. Maybe your MTN data balance is overflowing, and someone using Airtel is running low on data. However, telecom providers in Nigeria have not enabled cross-network data transfers. This restriction applies across all major networks, including MTN, Airtel, Glo, and 9mobile.
Instead, each provider offers features that allow users to share or gift data within their respective networks. For example, with MTN, you can send a portion of your data bundle to another MTN user, and Airtel offers similar options for its subscribers. But data transfer between different networks? Not possible.
How Data Sharing Works Within MTN and Other Networks
Although you cannot share data across networks, MTN makes it incredibly easy to share data with fellow MTN users. For instance, if you’re on MTN and want to share your data with another MTN user, you can do so by dialing a simple USSD code or using the MyMTN app. This allows you to manage your data better, especially when helping out family members or friends who are also using MTN.
Alternatives to Sharing Data From MTN to Airtel
Since cross-network data sharing isn’t an option, what can you do instead? Don’t worry, there are a few alternatives that work just as well.
How to Buy Data for an Airtel User Using MTN
Even though you can’t share data directly from MTN to Airtel, you can still help someone on Airtel get the data they need. One option is to purchase an Airtel data bundle for them. You can do this by using mobile banking apps or USSD codes that allow you to buy data for another number, even if you’re on a different network.
For example, if you use mobile banking, you can select Airtel as the recipient’s network, choose a data plan, and pay using your MTN-linked account. This way, even though you’re not technically “sharing” your MTN data, you’re still making sure the person on Airtel gets the data they need.
Using Mobile Money and Recharge Services to Send Airtime
Another method is to send airtime instead of data. Most networks in Nigeria, including MTN and Airtel, allow you to transfer airtime from one phone number to another. Once the Airtel user receives the airtime, they can use it to buy a data bundle for themselves.
To do this on MTN, you would dial *777#, follow the prompts to transfer airtime, and send it to the Airtel number. The Airtel user can then convert that airtime into a data plan by dialing *141# or using the Airtel app. It’s not a direct data transfer, but it gets the job done.
How to Share Data Between MTN Numbers (As an Alternative)
Since we’ve established that sharing data between MTN and Airtel isn’t possible, let’s look at how you can share data between MTN numbers. This is useful when you and the person you’re trying to help are both using MTN.
Step-by-Step Guide to Sharing Data on MTN
Sharing data on MTN is straightforward. Here’s how you can do it in just a few steps:
- Dial *131*7# on your MTN line.
- Select option 1, which is “Data Share.”
- Enter the MTN phone number you want to share data with.
- Choose the amount of data you wish to send.
- Confirm your selection.
That’s it! The data will be deducted from your balance and transferred to the other MTN number.
Checking Your Data Balance Before Sharing on MTN
Before you share data, it’s a good idea to check your balance to make sure you have enough to give away. You can check your data balance on MTN by dialing 1314# or using the MyMTN app. This way, you’ll avoid any surprises and ensure that the recipient gets the amount you intended to send.
Confirming Successful Data Transfers on MTN
Once the data is transferred, both you and the recipient will receive confirmation messages. If for any reason the transfer doesn’t go through, it’s easy to retry or contact MTN customer support for assistance. But in most cases, this process is quick and smooth.
Cross-Network Solutions for Staying Connected
If you frequently switch between MTN and Airtel or want to help someone who uses a different network, there are other ways to stay connected without needing to transfer data.
Using Mobile Hotspots to Share Internet Between MTN and Airtel
One of the easiest ways to share internet between MTN and Airtel (or any other network) is by using a mobile hotspot. If you’re on MTN and have a solid data balance, you can create a hotspot on your device and share your internet connection with someone using Airtel.
Most smartphones have a built-in mobile hotspot feature. Simply go to your phone’s settings, find the hotspot option, and turn it on. The Airtel user can then connect to your hotspot just like they would with any Wi-Fi network. While this doesn’t transfer data directly to their line, it allows them to use your internet connection without needing to buy a separate data plan.
Recommending Multi-SIM or Dual-SIM Phones for Cross-Network Usage
If you’re someone who frequently interacts with both MTN and Airtel users, or you use both networks yourself, having a multi-SIM or dual-SIM phone is a smart choice. These devices allow you to use two SIM cards at once, meaning you can take advantage of MTN’s data plans while still keeping your Airtel line active.
For example, you can load your MTN SIM with data and your Airtel SIM with airtime, ensuring you’re always connected no matter which network offers the best service at any given moment.
FAQs About Sharing Data From MTN To Airtel
Can I Directly Share Data From MTN to Airtel?
No, you cannot directly share data from MTN to Airtel. Data transfers are restricted to users within the same network.
How Can I Buy Data for an Airtel User If I’m on MTN?
You can buy data for an Airtel user through mobile banking apps or USSD services that allow cross-network purchases. Simply choose Airtel as the recipient’s network and select the data plan you want to buy.
Are There Any Third-Party Apps That Can Facilitate Cross-Network Data Sharing?
At the moment, there are no third-party apps that allow direct data sharing between MTN and Airtel. However, you can use apps to buy data or send airtime to someone on a different network.
What’s the Best Way to Share Airtime Between MTN and Airtel?
The best way to share airtime between MTN and Airtel is by using the USSD codes provided by each network. On MTN, you can dial *777# to send airtime to an Airtel number, and the Airtel user can use the airtime to purchase data.
