In Short:
Reliance Jio (RJio) is creating affordable devices and services through Cloud technology, enabling small businesses to use simple tools like keyboards and mice with TVs as computers. They’re emphasizing low-cost devices to broaden access to data and smart features, especially in tier-2 markets. Jio’s new models, priced at ₹1,099, offer various apps, aiming to connect 50 million small businesses in India.
Reliance Jio: Revolutionizing Affordable Technology
Reliance Jio (RJio) is on a mission to make technology accessible for everyone by creating not only affordable devices but also cost-effective services through the power of Cloud computing.
Transforming Televisions into Computers
Imagine using your television as a computer screen! RJio is making this possible by offering innovative computing solutions that even small businesses can take advantage of, simply by connecting a keyboard and mouse. This means they can access essential tools like Microsoft Word and PowerPoint with ease!
Making Technology Inclusive
“Our entire philosophy is to ensure that devices remain affordable,” a senior official at Reliance Jio shared with businessline. “With our network and Cloud services, even a basic phone equipped with a single SIM card can transform into a smart device for streaming news and entertainment.”
This means that rather than investing in expensive smartphones loaded with memory chips and apps, consumers can utilize RJio’s simple devices and access countless features through the Cloud. With the advent of the 5G network, primarily driven by artificial intelligence (AI), even more services will become readily available.
Investing Big in 5G
“We have invested an impressive $25 billion in establishing our 5G network,” the official explained. “In India, spectrum isn’t a capitalizable asset since it’s provided for a limited duration (15 years by the government). Given this, our industry is quite capital-heavy, which compels us to constantly innovate.”
Lowering Costs for Greater Access
Jio is determined to democratize data services, stating, “Everyone in India should have sufficient data access. Data is the key to unlocking future opportunities, whether in education, sports, or beyond.”
Currently, there are around 200 million feature phone users in India still relying on 2G networks. “We aim to transition these users to smartphones, but first, we need to reduce device costs. Our strategy focuses on making devices more affordable while enhancing the intelligence of the network,” he elaborated.
Collaborating with Tech Giants
The collaboration between RJio and Microsoft is pivotal as they work together to establish Azure data centers across India, providing efficient Cloud services to consumers.
Introducing New Models at IMC 2024
At the recent India Mobile Congress 2024, RJio unveiled two new models—JioBharat V3 and V4—priced at just ₹1,099. These new models grant users access to platforms like JioTV, JioCinema, JioPay, and JioChat.
Targeting the Next Wave of Users
Analysts believe that RJio’s content strategy is uniquely focused on reaching tier-2 markets, emphasizing over-the-top (OTT) services and Jio apps such as JioTV, JioCinemas, JioNews, JioSaavn (music), and JioPay (payments). The overarching goal is to connect 50 million small and medium businesses (SMBs), catering specifically to value-conscious consumers in the enterprise sector.
