Think USSD is outdated? Think again! It’s a communication powerhouse that’s quietly shaping the world of finance, especially in places with limited internet access.
What is USSD?
USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data) is a session-based protocol that allows real-time communication between GSM devices. Unlike SMS, USSD keeps an active connection during communication, making it faster and more reliable. Plus, it doesn’t require internet—just your basic network.
A Brief History of USSD: From Telcos to Finance
USSD started in the early 1990s as a simple tool for GSM telcos, letting users check balances, airtime, and basic services. By the late 2000s, it became essential for mobile money services like M-Pesa, enabling users to send money, pay bills, and apply for loans—all without needing a smartphone or internet.
USSD also expanded into sectors like healthcare. In Kenya, the SHA system (Social Health Insurance) used USSD to help people check insurance status and access services, driving digital inclusion for all.
Why Django and USSD are Best Friends
Django is perfect for building USSD-backed services. Its robust backend handles APIs and databases seamlessly, helping you manage transactions and scale easily. With Django, you can effortlessly track user data, handle payments, and keep everything organized—whether you’re serving hundreds or millions of users.
The Future: USSD + AI = Magic
AI is enhancing USSD by predicting user needs, automating processes, and offering proactive services. As AI and machine learning continue to evolve, USSD will get even smarter and more efficient, taking service delivery to the next level. A good example is HelloDuty: which is AI-powered, no-code platform helps businesses build USSD, SMS, voice, and payment solutions.
Looking to Get Started with USSD?
Want to learn how to build USSD systems? Check out my step-by-step tutorial on YouTube. For more tech insights, listen to my The Dev Circle podcast and visit my website for resources!
Conclusion: A Silent Revolution
USSD’s simplicity, low data needs, and ability to work on any device make it a game-changer, especially for underserved communities. With Django on the backend and AI powering the future, USSD is only getting started.
So, the next time someone tells you USSD is “old school,” just remind them—it’s a silent revolution that’s here to stay, and it’s only going to get smarter.
Top comments (0)