Klarna Enters U.S. Mobile as MVNO
Swedish fintech powerhouse Klarna is stepping beyond buy-now-pay-later services into the mobile phone arena. Launching as a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) in the U.S., Klarna is offering a $40/month unlimited 5G data, calls, and texts plan via AT&T’s network, powered by Gigs.
Power Move That Are Turning Heads
-
Diversification beyond BNPL: As growth in buy-now-pay-later slows, Klarna is evolving into a neobank offering seamless financial services—from payments to mobile connectivity .
-
Integrated user experience: Mobile plans will be activated inside the Klarna app, complete with eSIM support and zero fuss—leveraging Klarna’s 25 million U.S. user base and exceptional 81 NPS score.
-
Tech-powered MVNO model: Using Gigs’ platform, Klarna joins fintechs like Revolut and Nubank in offering a full-service mobile experience without needing its own infrastructure.
-
A test of fintech-telco fusion: Klarna’s move spotlights a broader trend—fintechs breaking into traditional telecom, reshaping consumer expectations across services.
What You Can Get for $40/Month
-
Unlimited 5G data, calls, and texts on AT&T nationwide
-
Instant eSIM activation via the Klarna app—no paperwork, no contracts
-
Ability to keep or port your existing number
-
No activation or cancellation fees
-
International and premium plans to roll out later in 2025
Will This Strategy Works for Klarna?
-
Built-in user base: Millions of active users poised for cross-selling mobile plans
-
Smooth UX & brand trust: One-click onboarding enhances customer experience
-
Neobank ambitions: Adds financial service products—telco is a natural next leg
-
Competitive differentiation: Klarna stands out in a crowded MVNO market
Implications for the Industry
| Category | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Fintechs | New growth opportunities in telecom markets |
| Consumers | Expect more integrated financial and mobile services |
| MVNOs | Larger players may struggle to compete on UX and brand |
| Regulators | Emerging services will bring scrutiny to bundled financial offerings |
TTR Group Takeaways: What This Means for Regular Consumers
-
Embedded Fintech Expansion: If you’re in fintech, following Klarna’s lead means exploring telco-based value add-ons.
-
Experience-Driven Strategy: Prioritizing seamless mobile sign-ups from financial apps sets a new benchmark.
-
Diversification is key: With BNPL facing headwinds, adding services like mobile allows resilience and revenue growth.
-
MVNO partnerships: Brands can become service providers virtually—without telecom overhead—via platforms like Gigs.
Klarna’s U.S. mobile service launch marks a pivotal moment—it’s a fintech-led disruption of telecom, powered by fintech infrastructure and user-centric design. This bold move could redefine how consumers view both financial services and connectivity.
Fintechs, brands, and enterprises should pay attention. Klarna isn’t just selling mobile plans—it’s showcasing how to transform a payments app into a holistic digital lifestyle platform.
