The introduction of JioAirFiber is set to intensify competition among rivals. Its widespread availability and appealing pricing plans could potentially boost the number of broadband users, even in regions where internet access has historically been limited, thereby reducing the digital gap in the world’s most populous country.
As a nation with a large population striving to ensure that no citizen is left behind in the journey of growth and development, the launch of JioAirFiber on Tuesday, September 19, signifies a major step towards India’s goal of providing its 1.4 billion inhabitants with access to the latest technologies at affordable prices.
Jio’s latest product could significantly assist national efforts to overcome the last-mile connectivity hurdle that has often hindered the provision of reliable fixed-wireless broadband services to more people. This would enable them to utilize high-speed internet connectivity in various ways to enhance their lifestyle, whether it’s shopping, banking, entertainment, education, or business.
The extensive availability of JioAirFiber, which is expected soon given Reliance’s renowned distribution capabilities, along with its attractive pricing plans and user-friendly nature, could lead to a considerable rise in broadband subscribers. This could even occur in areas where internet penetration has traditionally been low, thereby reducing the digital divide in the country. For instance, as of March 2023, while there were more than 200 internet subscribers per 100 population in Delhi, this figure was less than 40 in Bihar.
The launch of JioAirFiber is likely to increase competition among telecom service providers. This could further support the national effort to promote digital inclusion on a larger scale, with other players anticipated to expedite the launch of their own products to compete with Jio. This would also benefit ordinary citizens as they could expect more advanced and innovative home broadband services at attractive prices in India in the near future. This would also be welcomed by investors who are eagerly awaiting Jio’s IPO announcement. The business potential of JioAirFiber was highlighted by Reliance Industries Chairman Mukesh Ambani during the company’s 46th AGM held on August 28. At that meeting, Ambani stated that they can currently connect around 15,000 premises daily through optical fiber.