Digital Republic

Digital Republic AG, founded in 2016 by Ali Soy and Marco Arnold, operates as a telecommunications provider in Switzerland, specializing in mobile and Internet of Things (IoT) connectivity. The founders, who previously worked together at a large Swiss telecommunications company, established the firm out of dissatisfaction with the inflexibility and lack of transparency in the traditional telecom industry. Soy's background includes expertise in telecommunications, AI, and automation, while Arnold is a trained software engineer focused on technical solutions and the customer journey.

The company serves both private and corporate clients, offering mobile internet solutions that range from individual smartphone subscriptions to comprehensive networking for entire companies. Digital Republic's business model is centered on providing flexible, fair, and progressive mobile communication services without activation fees, hidden costs, minimum contract terms, or cancellation periods. Revenue is generated through the sale of SIM cards and subscription plans for mobile data and voice services. The company entered the market in 2018 with a white-label solution for Digitec Galaxus before launching services under its own brand. In early 2023, Digital Republic was acquired by mobilezone Group but continues to be managed by its original founders.

Digital Republic’s core offering is centered around SIM and eSIM-based mobile connectivity. For individual users, this includes mobile subscriptions for smartphones, tablets, and mobile routers, with options for roaming packages and yearly plans. A key feature for business clients is the provision of IoT-compatible SIM cards with API connectivity, allowing for the automated management and scaling of connections for various applications such as smart farming, logistics, and in the event and construction industries. The company provides a self-management customer portal where users can manage subscriptions, access invoices, and scale their connections as needed. Significant milestones include the launch of eSIMs in September 2020, the addition of 5G and voice options in spring 2021, and being recognized for customer satisfaction and as an innovative provider at the World Congress of Mobile Virtual Network Operators.

Keywords: mobile virtual network operator, MVNO, IoT connectivity, M2M communication, mobile internet, Switzerland telecommunications, eSIM provider, flexible mobile subscriptions, no contract mobile, corporate connectivity solutions, API connectivity, SIM management portal, mobile data plans, voice over LTE, 5G mobile services, smart farming connectivity, logistics telematics, event internet solutions, white-label telecom, digital telecommunications