Reliance Jio unveiled its latest offering, the Jio Bharat Phone, a cost-effective 4G smartphone priced at Rs 999. The primary objective is to facilitate the transition of 250 million feature phone users to internet-enabled devices, particularly in rural areas while capturing a larger share of the entry-level mobile broadband market.
In a statement, Jio emphasized the pressing need to address the plight of the 250 million individuals trapped in the 2G era with feature phones. These devices severely limit their access to the internet, hindering their ability to benefit from the essential technologies that can improve their livelihoods and economic well-being.
Jio further highlighted the growing disparity and digital disempowerment these feature phone users face, exacerbated by other telecom operators doubling the minimum price required for connectivity. The telco explained that even essential voice services, previously priced at Rs 99 for 30 days, now cost Rs 199. This disproportionately affects users in this segment, who cannot afford smartphones and face both affordability challenges and limitations in accessing digital services.
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To address this issue, Jio Bharat Phone aims to empower every Indian by bridging the digital divide and offering essential digital services. Users of the device can enjoy access to JioCinema, JioSaavn, and FM Radio and utilize JioPay for UPI payments.
Furthermore, Jio has introduced the ‘Jio Bharat Platform,’ enabling other phone manufacturers to launch their own Jio Bharat phones. Reliance Retail and Karbonn have already partnered to adopt this platform, paving the way for broader access to affordable internet-enabled devices.
