Etecsa's new promotion for December, launched in the last few hours, continues to generate discussion among Cubans residing in Miami, one of the markets where the most recharges are sent to the Island.
The offer, which grants unlimited mobile data for 30 days to those who receive between 960 and 1250 CUPIt can only be purchased through international distributors. And in South Florida, prices exceed $40, which has been criticized by users who feel the costs have become too high in recent months.
At regular charging stations, one of the cheaper options Available to activate the benefit costs $42.99 USD, a figure that credits 960 CUP in the user's account in Cuba and activates the unlimited data bonus for 30 days. For many Miami residents—who also bear the burden of remittances, sending food, and providing financial support to their families—this sustained increase in the cost of top-ups has become yet another source of frustration.
Etecsa top-up in December
According to the official website of the Cuban state-owned company, the promotion includes unlimited browsing on national and international websites, immediate activation of the bonus upon receiving the top-up, and a main balance valid for up to 330 days plus an additional 180 days. Furthermore, users in Cuba can receive multiple top-ups during the month, accumulating balance and extending the unlimited data period from the last top-up received. However, the offer does not extend the validity of previous plans or bonuses, such as national data packages, international bundles, SMS, or minutes.
On Etecsa's official Facebook page, many Cubans living in Miami point out that sending a mobile phone top-up has become "increasingly expensive," while others question whether the service in Cuba guarantees enough stability to justify spending more than $40. Among the most frequent comments is the concern...cupAction due to blackouts, which directly affect connectivity, as well as the perception that the quality of mobile internet leaves much to be desired and fluctuates depending on demand or the availability of energy at the antennas.
Even so, many Cubans continue to seek out these deals so their relatives in Cuba can have constant connectivity for studying, working, or communicating. However, the controversy has resurfaced: while Etecsa presents the promotion as an attractive end-of-year option, a significant portion of its customers believe that the external prices, coupled with the unreliable service on the island, remain a significant obstacle.