Reliance Jio has unveiled its latest innovation, the Rs 999 Jio Bharat device, in a significant step to speed up the nationwide transition from 2G to 4G networks. Customers still using 2G technology will have access to the best-in-class Jio 4G network via this innovative and inexpensive feature phone. The beta test for the first million JioBharat phones will commence on July 7, according to a press release from the company.
The Jio Bharat device, positioned as a crucial element of the company’s “2G Mukt Bharat” (2G-free India) vision, integrates cutting-edge network capabilities with feature-rich devices to make internet-capable phones accessible to the masses. The phone comes with a Rs 123 plan that is effective for 28 days and provides 14GB of data (0.5 GB per day) — the company claims it is seven times more than its competitors. The same plan costs Rs 1,234 per year and includes 168 GB of data (0.5 GB per day).
250 million mobile phone users in India are still ‘trapped’ in the 2G era, unable to access fundamental internet features at a time when the world is on the cusp of a 5G revolution. When Jio was launched six years ago, we made it clear that we would leave no stone unattended in our efforts to democratise the internet and bring the benefits of technology to every Indian. The new Jio Bharat phone is another step in this direction, according to Akash Ambani, chairman of Reliance Jio.
Users will immediately note the device’s compact design and 1.77-inch QVGA TFT screen upon unboxing. The Jio Bharat includes a detachable battery with a capacity of 1000 mAh, which is included in the packaging. The device is Jio SIM-locked, requiring the insertion of a Jio SIM card prior to use.
Once the device is powered on, three pre-installed Jio applications will be accessible via the menu. First is JioCinema, an app that provides a vast selection of nonstop entertainment, including the most recent web series, blockbuster films, HBO Originals, sports content, and television programmes. JioSaavn, the most popular free music app in India, provides users with access to an extensive and exclusive music library. The device also incorporates JioPay, a digital payments app based on UPI.
Jio Bharat also includes a powerful flashlight and a radio, making it particularly useful in remote and rural areas. Additionally, it has a 3.5mm headphone jack, allowing users to connect earphones for content consumption or audio listening. The device has a camera with 0.3 megapixels for capturing memories. In addition, users can increase the device’s storage capacity by inserting an SD card with a maximum capacity of 128GB.
The inauguration of Jio Bharat occurs at a crucial juncture, as competitors are increasing 2G rates and there is a dearth of affordable feature phones. This new offering from Reliance Jio arrives at the ideal time to expedite the transition from 2G to 4G, enabling digital experiences for the populace.
