Game changing Jio AirFiber may be launched at 20% discount to challenge market rivals
PuneNow, August 27, 2023: Reliance Jio, a key player in India’s telecommunications industry, is all set to introduce its Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) device, dubbed Jio AirFiber. Scheduled to launch during the festive quarter, the device is likely to be priced at a discount of up to 20% compared to existing alternatives.
A Milestone for Jio in the 5G Space
This move signifies Jio’s significant initiative to monetize the emerging 5G technology. Earlier this year, Jio introduced data top-up packages, making it easier for users to avail extra data on their existing plans. The launch of Jio AirFiber comes as the company continues to ramp up its 5G network operations.
Official Announcement and Trial Runs
Industry insiders speculate that the formal announcement may coincide with the company’s Annual General Meeting (AGM), a platform where Jio traditionally reveals new product launches. The telecom leader has initiated consumer trials in cities where its 5G network is already operational. Preliminary devices have also been issued to selected users, including employees, for in-home testing.
Competitive Technologies and Frequencies
Jio AirFiber will use carrier aggregation technology, facilitating data transmission through a range of 5G airwaves including 700 MHz, 3300 MHz, and 26GHz frequencies. These frequencies were secured by Jio in last year’s spectrum auction.
Market Competition and Pricing Strategies
The entry of Jio AirFiber comes on the heels of the launch of Bharti Airtel’s FWA product, Xstream AirFiber. With Airtel’s subscription costing Rs 799 per month and a six-month commitment structure, industry experts expect Jio to use competitive pricing mechanisms, possibly including discounted devices or trial periods, to attract customers.
History and Future Plans
The groundwork for Jio’s consumer-focused FWA device was laid out almost a year ago, first discussed during the Annual General Meeting of its parent company, Reliance Industries Limited (RIL), last August. Since then, the device has made appearances at various industry events, and management has consistently hinted at its upcoming launch in earnings calls.
During a recent earnings call, Kiran Thomas, President of RIL, underscored that Jio AirFiber could notably contribute to Jio’s home broadband ambitions, potentially connecting up to 100 million homes across India.
Global FWA Market Growth
Global telecom giant Ericsson projects FWA connections to reach 300 million by the end of 2028, with 80% of these connections leveraging 5G technology. Given India’s massive data consumption and geographic expanse, the country is deemed a crucial market for FWA adoption.
In the backdrop of intense competition and rapid technological advancements, Jio’s latest offering aims to solidify its position in the burgeoning 5G market while providing affordable and reliable connectivity solutions to consumers.
