5G Rollout and Expanding Subscriber Base

Pemmasani also underlined the scale of technological advancement, pointing out that the nationwide rollout of 5G was completed in nearly 22 months. “5G rollout was completed in roughly 22 months with over 5.1 lakh base stations and more than 400 million subscribers. India has a subscriber base of over 1.22 billion, among the lowest tariffs globally and among the highest per-user data consumption,” he said, according to an official release from the Ministry of Communications dated April 24, 2026.

Policy Reforms Reshaping the Sector

In his address, Pemmasani highlighted that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, “the Government has re-engineered nearly every major lever of telecom policy. The Telecommunications Act, 2023 marks the first comprehensive rewrite of India’s telecom law in nearly 140 years, providing clear authorisation frameworks, stronger consumer protection and provisions for emerging technologies.”

“The Reforms Package of 2021 restored predictability for financial viability through rationalised AGR, a four-year moratorium on past dues, removal of bank guarantees and a path to equity conversion. Right-of-Way reforms through the Gati Shakti Sanchar portal have rationalised fees and streamlined clearances, reducing timelines significantly. Spectrum rationalisation has been undertaken through the National Frequency Allocation Plan 2025 and predictable auction timelines,” he said.

He noted that technology is not standing still and that 6G, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Quantum represent the next wave, which is both exciting and challenging. Emphasising collaboration, he stated that a strong telecom sector is built by both the government and industry.

Rural Connectivity and Digital Security Push

He also highlighted that India’s BharatNet is the largest rural broadband programme anywhere in the world and aims to connect over 2.6 lakh Gram Panchayats, with long-term operation and maintenance built in. A citizen protection architecture comprising Sanchar Saathi, the Digital Intelligence Platform, Chakshu, and ASTR has also been established on a massive scale, making it the most comprehensive policy support architecture the telecom sector has received in its history.

Manufacturing and Indigenous R&D Gains

In the manufacturing segment, he pointed to progress under the PLI Scheme for Telecom and Networking Products, with an outlay of Rs 12,195 crore, 42 companies approved, cumulative sales exceeding Rs 65,000 crore, and exports of over Rs 12,000 crore. The Telecom Technology Development Fund has supported indigenous R&D with projects worth Rs 542 crore.

Rising Concerns Over Digital Fraud

Addressing concerns around spam and digital fraud, the Minister detailed measures, including the disconnection of over 88 lakh fraudulent connections and the prevention of losses worth approximately Rs 2,300 crore through risk monitoring systems. He called for stronger verification mechanisms, improved call-filtering technologies and enhanced intelligence sharing to counter increasingly sophisticated threats.

Call for Higher R&D Investment

On research and development (R&D), Sekhar observed that while the telecom sector generated Rs 3.72 lakh crore in FY25, Indian operators spend less than 1 percent of their revenue on R&D, compared to 15–25 per cent by global majors. He emphasised that the Bharat 6G Vision requires greater industry participation in R&D.

The Minister concluded that India is at an inflection point, with policy support, infrastructure, talent and scale in place, and called for ambition to match the opportunity.

At a time when telecom operators continue to focus on larger recharge plans and bundled benefits, Airtel’s short-term packs point to a more targeted strategy one that aligns data access with specific usage needs rather than long-term commitments.

A Simple Comparison That Reveals More

At the core, both packs offer unlimited data access with a defined high-speed usage threshold. The key difference lies not in the data structure, but in how long users can access it.

This comparison makes one thing clear – Bharti Airtel is not differentiating these packs based on speed or total daily allowance. Instead, it is offering users a choice based on time. The Rs 49 pack is designed for immediate, short-term usage, while the Rs 99 pack extends that window for users who need slightly longer flexibility.

Duration as the Core Variable

The structure of these plans highlights an important shift data pricing is no longer just about how much users get, but also about when they need it.

In practical terms, both packs deliver the same high-speed experience within a given day the difference lies in how users distribute their consumption. A user with a one day requirement such as streaming an event, downloading large files, or handling a work-heavy schedule can opt for the Rs 49 pack. Those with extended needs can move to the two-day option without changing their broader recharge strategy.

This duration-led design reflects how data consumption has become increasingly event-driven. Instead of steady usage spread across weeks, users now consume data in bursts tied to specific activities.

Short-Term Packs in a Changing Data Landscape

India’s mobile data ecosystem has evolved rapidly over the past few years. Streaming platforms, live content, gaming, and cloud-based work have all contributed to more dynamic consumption patterns.

These patterns are not always predictable users may require large amounts of data for a short period and significantly less at other times traditional prepaid plans, built around fixed daily limits and longer validity cycles, do not always cater to this variability.

Airtel’s Rs 49 and Rs 99 packs fill that gap they act as targeted boosters, allowing users to handle high-demand scenarios without committing to a higher-priced plan. This flexibility is becoming increasingly relevant as digital usage continues to diversify.

Structured Unlimited, Not Open-Ended Usage

While both packs are marketed as unlimited, the underlying structure is clearly defined. Users get access to high-speed data up to a certain threshold each day, after which speeds are reduced.

This model ensures that users can access substantial data volumes when needed while maintaining overall network stability. In a market where data consumption is among the highest globally, such structured usage models help balance user experience with performance consistency.

Rather than offering unrestricted access that could lead to congestion, Airtel’s approach provides predictable performance within a defined usage framework.

A Strategy Built Around Real Usage

What makes these packs particularly interesting is how they align with real-world usage patterns. They are not positioned as replacements for base plans, but as complementary options that enhance flexibility.

For users, this means greater control instead of upgrading an entire plan, they can selectively add data capacity for short durations. This is especially useful for segments such as students, gig workers, and remote professionals whose data needs fluctuate.

From a strategic perspective, this also allows Bharti Airtel to monetise high-demand usage windows without disrupting its core pricing structure.

Backed by Strong Subscriber Momentum

According to the latest data from the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India, Bharti Airtel added 5,094,968 wireless subscribers in March 2026. This takes its total wireless subscriber base to 477.74 million, translating to a market share of 37.74%.

Also Read: Bharti Airtel Adds Over 5 Million Wireless Subscribers in March 2026: TRAI Data

These numbers indicate that Airtel’s approach continues to resonate in a highly competitive market while pricing remains a factor, relevance and flexibility are increasingly shaping user choices.

Rethinking Data Pricing Around Usage Patterns

The comparison between Airtel’s Rs 49 and Rs 99 packs offers a glimpse into how telecom pricing is evolving it is no longer just about offering more data at lower prices, but about structuring access in a way that matches how users actually consume it.

By focusing on duration rather than just volume, Airtel is introducing a more modular approach to prepaid data. Users are no longer locked into rigid consumption patterns; instead, they can adapt their usage based on need.

The Future of Flexible Data Usage

Bharti Airtel’s Rs 49 and Rs 99 packs may appear as simple additions to its prepaid portfolio, but they reflect a broader shift in how data is being packaged and delivered the emphasis on short-term flexibility, structured high-speed access, and usage driven design suggests a more nuanced understanding of modern mobile consumption.
As data usage continues to evolve, such targeted offerings are likely to play a larger role – not just as add-ons, but as indicators of where the industry is heading.

Also Read: Jio Renames JioBharat Phone Plans as 4G Feature Phone Plans; Removes JioPhone Plans

What Users Are Missing Now

Users will now miss the Rs 209 pack, Jio’s only prepaid plan offering 1GB of daily data. As of this writing, the plan is not visible on the MyJio app, and it is unclear whether Jio will bring it back. However, if you are curious about the plan benefits, check them out below.

Also Read: Reliance Jio’s Only 1GB Daily Data Plan Explained in Detail

Jio Rs 209 Prepaid Plan

The Rs 209 prepaid plan provided 1GB of high-speed data per day, amounting to a total of 22GB over its 22-day validity period. The pack also included unlimited voice calling, 100 SMS per day, and access to JioTV and JioAICloud storage as part of the bundled OTT benefits. Once the daily high-speed quota was exhausted, data speeds dropped to 64 Kbps for the remainder of the day. The Rs 209 plan had an effective price of Rs 9.5 per day.

Jio Rs 198 – True 5G Unlimited Plan

Plan Type: True 5G Unlimited Plan, Popular Plan
Core Benefits: Unlimited Voice, 2 GB/day (28 GB total), and 100 SMS/Day. After the high-speed data quota, unlimited data at 64 Kbps. Unlimited 5G data for eligible subscribers.
Validity: 14 days
Subscriptions and Benefits: JioTV, JioAICloud
Effective Per Day Pricing: Rs 14.14

Jio Rs 199 – Affordable Pack

Plan Type: Jio Value Plan category, Affordable Pack – New Launch
Core Benefits: Unlimited Voice, 1.5 GB/day (27 GB total), and 100 SMS/Day. After the high-speed data quota, unlimited data at 64 Kbps.
Validity: 18 days
Subscriptions and Benefits: JioTV, JioAICloud
Effective Per Day Pricing: Rs 11.05

Conclusion

A difference of just Re 1 can get you either unlimited 5G data for 14 days or 1.5 GB of data per day for 18 days on a 5G device. You can enjoy high-speed connectivity for four additional days if you forgo the unlimited 5G benefit. However, on a 4G device, the choice comes down to 2 GB/day for 14 days versus 1.5 GB/day for 18 days—showing what a Re 1 difference can offer.

Also in the Reliance Jio 2026 Tariff Series:

Jio Data Packs: Reliance Jio Prepaid Data Packs, Including New and Refreshed Cricket Packs Detailed: April 2026 Edition

Jio Mega Content Plan and Pack: Reliance Jio Mega Content Plan Rs 500 and New Add-On Pack Rs 200 Benefits Detailed

Jio 84-Day Prepaid Plans: Reliance Jio 84-Day Validity Prepaid Plans: April 2026 Edition

Vodafone Idea Limited (VIL), the third-largest telecom operator in India, is still missing out on a huge opportunity which other telcos have already tapped into. If you have not yet guessed it yet, it is FWA (fixed wireless access) service. To be more precise, it is 5G FWA. Jio and Airtel have already tapped into this, and have millions of users. Jio, in fact, has more than 10 million customers in this category when FWA and UBR (unlicensed band radio) service is combined. Airtel is also growing fast in the segment, and will soon touch 4 million customers.

However, Vodafone Idea has zero 5G FWA customers. What’s strange is that the telco doesn’t even talk much about releasing this service for the customers. 5G coverage is still being built by Vodafone Idea, and much recently, the telco launched it in the Goa circle. However, there has been no update on the launch of 5G FWA.

Customers who can’t get fiber access in their home or office are going for FWA connections. This is a great way for them to get high-speed broadband connection in their desired locations. What’s more interesting is that Vodafone Idea has already showcased the 5G FWA solution multiple times at the India Mobile Congress (IMC) 2026.

However, we don’t have any timeline for the launch of this service in India. What would be bad for Vi in this segment is if the telco comes in too late and the customers have already opted for 5G FWA service from other operators, who are now into 5G SA (standalone architecture). The FWA service is essentially better with 5G SA than with the 5G NSA.

Vodafone Idea hasn’t been able to deploy 5G NSA in most parts of India yet, so the question about 5G SA just goes out of the picture. Vodafone Idea has recently started adding mobile customes. So this would be a good time for the telco to also think about expanding the high-paying customer base with the launch of 5G FWA service. The telco doesn’t even compete well in the fiber broadband space with Jio and Airtel. Thus, it will be worth the wait to see what unfolds here for Vodafone Idea’s customers and the investors. Much recently the telco also got relief by the government as the telecom department cut down the AGR (adjusted gross revenue) payable after 10 years by more than Rs 20,000 crore.

Stay tuned to TelecomTalk for getting updates around 5G SA deployment from Vodafone Idea along with potential deployment of FWA service.

Reliance Jio Rs 3999 plan is available for customers across India. Let’s take a look at the plan and understand its benefits in depth.

Reliance Jio Rs 3999 Plan Benefits

Reliance Jio Rs 3999 plan comes with 365 days of service validity. It further offers 2.5GB of daily data and unlimited voice calling as well as 100 SMS/day to the users. The OTT (over-the-top) benefit with the plan is of FanCode along with JioTV and JioAICloud. The total amount of data bundled with the plan is 912.5GB.

As part of the promotional offer, Jio is also offering a free access to JioHotstar Mobile for three months. There’s also JioAICloud free 50GB of storage for the users. Users will be able to get a free susbcription via FanCode via JioTVMobile app. There’s of course unlimited 5G data bundled with the plan. There’s no limit to how much data users can consume with the 5G access.

Jio also partnered with Google to offer users access to Gemini AI Pro susbcription for 18 months valued at Rs 35,100. With the Gemini AI Pro subscription, users will get the best of Gemini access but won’t have to pay anything extra for it. Jio’s Rs 3999 plan is currently available for everyone in India.

At its core, SuperBroadband represents a shift in how broadband is being designed instead of relying on a single connection, it brings together multiple networks into one unified system, creating a model where connectivity is not just fast, but consistently available.

A Network Designed for Redundancy

The defining feature of SuperBroadband is its dual-network architecture businesses are connected simultaneously to T-Mobile’s 5G network and Starlink’s low-Earth orbit satellite network. These two independent pathways work together, ensuring that if one connection fails, the other automatically takes over without disruption.

The platform intelligently manages both networks in real time, using enterprise-grade routers and centralized software to maintain uptime and performance the entire setup is delivered as a fully managed service.

T-Mobile is also positioning this as a nationwide solution, claiming coverage across virtually every ZIP code in the United States. By integrating satellite connectivity, the service extends beyond the limitations of fiber and terrestrial infrastructure, reaching even the most remote locations.

From Complexity to Simplicity

One of the key pain points highlighted in the announcement is the complexity of existing business internet setups. Enterprises often rely on multiple internet service providers to ensure redundancy, sometimes dealing with more than 20 different ISPs across locations. Each comes with its own contracts, billing systems, and support structures, creating operational challenges.

SuperBroadband attempts to eliminate this fragmentation by offering a single-provider model businesses get one contract, one bill, and end to end support, along with a financially backed uptime commitment. The idea is simple: remove the operational burden so companies can focus on their core activities instead of managing connectivity.

Real-world adoption is already beginning to take shape. Aramark, which operates in remote and complex environments, has highlighted how such a solution can bring consistency to locations where connectivity has traditionally been difficult to scale and maintain.

Why This Matters Beyond the US

While SuperBroadband is currently a US-focused offering, the underlying concept has broader implications. The telecom industry is moving towards a model where reliability and resilience matter as much as speed. Combining wireless and satellite networks is emerging as one of the most effective ways to achieve that.

For markets like India, this shift is particularly relevant.

India’s Current Reality

India has made rapid progress in expanding digital infrastructure, with widespread 4G coverage and one of the fastest 5G rollouts globally fiber networks are also growing steadily. However, business connectivity still largely depends on single network setups.

Most small and medium enterprises rely on a single broadband connection, with limited backup options. In many regions, particularly outside major urban centres, even primary connectivity can be inconsistent. Setting up redundancy often requires dealing with multiple providers, which adds cost and complexity.

This creates a clear gap between global innovation and local implementation.

The Opportunity for Airtel and Jio

Interestingly, Indian telecom operators already possess many of the components needed to build a similar solution.

Bharti Airtel has a strong enterprise portfolio, an expanding fiber network, and growing investments in data centre infrastructure through Nxtra. The company has also positioned itself around network quality and reliability, which aligns closely with the idea of always-on connectivity.

Reliance Jio, meanwhile, has built a large-scale 5G network and continues to expand its digital ecosystem. Its ability to integrate services across platforms gives it a unique advantage in launching bundled connectivity solutions.

What neither operator has done yet is bring these elements together into a unified, resilience-focused offering. A combination of fiber, 5G, and eventually satellite connectivity could enable a similar model tailored for Indian conditions.

The Role of Satellite Internet

Satellite connectivity is likely to play a crucial role in this transition. Starlink has already signalled its intent to enter India, although regulatory approvals are still awaited once operational, satellite broadband could complement existing networks by providing coverage in areas where fiber deployment is difficult or economically unviable. For businesses, this could mean access to reliable backup connectivity without the need for multiple terrestrial providers.

For telecom operators, it opens up a new layer of service differentiation — moving beyond traditional plans to integrated connectivity solutions.

A Shift Beyond Pricing Wars

India’s telecom sector has long been defined by pricing competition, with operators focusing on tariffs, data benefits, and bundled content. While this has driven adoption, it has also limited innovation in enterprise connectivity.

T-Mobile’s SuperBroadband highlights a different direction one where reliability, coverage, and simplicity become central to the offering.

If Indian operators begin to move in this direction, it could signal a broader shift in the market. Instead of competing primarily on price, companies may start competing on network experience and service continuity.

What Comes Next

The idea of combining multiple networks into a single, resilient system is gaining momentum globally. T-Mobile’s move suggests that such models are becoming commercially viable at scale. For India, the timing is significant. With 5G networks expanding and satellite internet on the horizon, the foundation for similar innovation is already in place.

The real question is who will take the lead.

As business operations become increasingly digital, the expectation will evolve from fast internet to always-available internet. Operators that recognise this shift early and act on it could define the next phase of telecom evolution in India.

These add-on packs are not standalone recharges users must already have an active unlimited prepaid plan to use them. Once activated, the packs provide additional data access for 28 days Since there is no service validity included, users cannot rely on these packs alone to keep their number active. Instead, they act as a supplementary layer for data consumption.

This structure makes them particularly useful for users who exhaust their daily data quota before the end of the day and need additional high-speed access without switching to a higher-priced base plan.

What the New Packs Offer

Vodafone Idea has launched two new add-on packs:

Vodafone Idea Rs 55 Data Pack
Unlimited data
28 days validity
Available for users on select Hero plans depending on the circle
No service validity included

Vodafone Idea Rs 105 Data Pack
Unlimited data
28 days validity
Available on select prepaid plans such as Rs 299, Rs 340, Rs 479, Rs 719 and others depending on the telecom circle
No service validity included

The availability of these packs varies across circles, with some regions allowing usage only on Hero plans, while others extend support to both Hero and SuperHero plans or specific recharge denominations.

Also Read: Vodafone Idea Prepaid Data Packs for Cricket Season, Including New Launches: May 2026

This approach allows Vodafone Idea to increase average revenue per user (ARPU) without implementing a full-scale tariff hike. For users, it creates a more flexible spending model where they can choose when and how much extra data to buy.

The Rs 55 price point, in particular, stands out as a low-entry option that can encourage impulse purchases, especially among users who occasionally need more data but do not want to commit to a higher recharge plan.

Regional Variations and Plan Restrictions

One of the key aspects of these packs is their circle-based availability the Rs 55 pack is limited to Hero plans in certain regions such as Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Bihar, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, and Rajasthan, while in other circles like Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Maharashtra, it is valid on both Hero and SuperHero plans.

Similarly, the Rs 105 pack is tied to specific prepaid plans, and the list of eligible plans varies across circles including Assam, Odisha, and Jammu and Kashmir.

These restrictions indicate that Vodafone Idea is tailoring its offerings based on regional network conditions, user demand, and pricing strategies.

What Users Should Keep in Mind

While the packs are positioned as “unlimited,” users should check the applicable fair usage policies (FUP) and speed limits, as these details are not always prominently highlighted in plan listings additionally, since the packs are tied to specific plans and circles, not all users may be eligible to use them, even if they are on unlimited plans.

With these new add-on packs, Vodafone Idea is experimenting with a more modular prepaid model, where users can build their data usage based on need rather than relying solely on fixed recharge bundles.

As data consumption continues to rise, such flexible options could become an important part of telecom pricing strategies, allowing operators to balance user demand with revenue growth without triggering pricing backlash.

Jio offers this plan to every customer in every telecom circle of the country. The thing with 1.5GB daily data plans is that they not only fit most consumers daily data consumption pattern, but they also cost nominal and fit the budget of maximum Indians. Post the tariff hikes, users are not really getting a lot of affordable options from the brands. The Rs 199 plan with 1.5GB of daily data looks like a cheap offering, but is it? Let’s find out.

Reliance Jio Rs 199 Plan Details

Reliance Jio’s Rs 199 plan comes with 1.5GB of daily data, and offers 100 SMS/day. There’s unlimited voice calling bundled as well. The additonal benefits are JioTV and JioAICloud subscriptions. However, there’s no Google Gemini AI Pro subscription or free access to JioHotstar Mobile plan with this recharge offering from Jio.

The service validity of the Rs 199 recharge from Jio is just 18 days. This is not a lot of days. It is well under 3 weeks and thus while it looks cheap, it really isn’t. Let’s take the daily cost of the plan and the cost of average data.

Jio’s Rs 199 plan costs Rs 11.05 daily on average, while the data costs Rs 7.37 per GB. This is not too expensive, but this isn’t cheap either. There are actually long-term plans which cost less than this on a daily average. But that require you to put a higher amount upfront. That is also not feasible for every customer, especially in a price sensitive country such as India.

If you want to pay a little more than this and get a longer service validity, then go for the Rs 239 plan. With the Rs 239 plan as well, the benefits remain the same for the customers as with the Rs 199 plan. However, the service validity bumps up to 22 days from 18 days. The average daily cost becomes Rs 10.86, marginally lower, not a big difference.

Also Read: TRAI Pulls Up Reliance Jio Over Tariff Practices, Sets April 14 Deadline for Compliance

TRAI’s Directives to Jio

According to earlier reports from April 2026, TRAI reportedly issued directives to Jio to restructure its device-specific tariff plans—currently limited to JioBharat and JioPhone users—and make them available to users of all devices. It appears that the recent changes have been made in response to these directives, as indicated by the new naming: “4G Feature Phone Plan” and “4G Feature Phone Add-on.”

Let’s now take a look at the 4G Feature Phone Plans and 4G Feature Phone Add-ons available to users as of May 1, 2026.

Jio 4G Feature Phone Plans

1. Jio Rs 123 – 4G Feature Phone Plan

Plan Type: 4G Feature Phone Plan (previously JioBharat Phone Plan)
Core Benefits: Unlimited Voice, 0.5 GB/day (14 GB), along with 300 SMS. After the high-speed data quota, unlimited data at 64 Kbps.
Validity: 28 days
Subscriptions and Benefits: JioSaavn, JioTV,
Effective Per Day Pricing: Rs 4.40

2. Jio Rs 234 – 4G Feature Phone Plan

Plan Type: 4G Feature Phone Plan (previously JioBharat Phone Plan)
Core Benefits: Unlimited Voice, 0.5 GB/day (28 GB), and 300 SMS/28 Days. After the high-speed data quota, unlimited data at 64 Kbps.
Validity: 56 days
Subscriptions and Benefits: JioSaavn, JioTV,
Effective Per Day Pricing: Rs 4.18

3. Jio Rs 369 – 4G Feature Phone Plan

Plan Type: 4G Feature Phone Plan (previously JioBharat Phone Plan)
Core Benefits: Unlimited Voice, 0.5 GB/day (42 GB), and 300 SMS/28 Days. After the high-speed data quota, unlimited data at 64 Kbps.
Validity: 84 days
Subscriptions and Benefits: JioSaavn, JioTV,
Effective Per Day Pricing: Rs 4.39

4. Jio Rs 1234 – 4G Feature Phone Plan

Plan Type: 4G Feature Phone Plan (previously JioBharat Phone Plan)
Core Benefits: Unlimited Voice, 0.5 GB/day (168 GB), and 300 SMS/28 Days. After the high-speed data quota, unlimited data at 64 Kbps.
Validity: 336 days
Subscriptions and Benefits: JioSaavn, JioTV,
Effective Per Day Pricing: Rs 3.67

4G Feature Phone Addon

1. Jio 4G Feature Phone Addon Rs 26

Pack Type: 4G Feature Phone Data Pack (previously JioPhone data add-on)
Core Benefits: 2GB Data. Post high-speed usage, unlimited data at 64 Kbps.
Validity: 28 Days
Effective Per Day Pricing: Rs 0.93

2. Jio 4G Feature Phone Addon Rs 62

Pack Type: 4G Feature Phone Data Pack (previously JioPhone data add-on)
Core Benefits: 6GB Data. Post high-speed usage, unlimited data at 64 Kbps.
Validity: 28 Days
Effective Per Day Pricing: Rs 2.21

3. Jio 4G Feature Phone Addon Rs 86

Pack Type: 4G Feature Phone Data Pack (previously JioPhone data add-on)
Core Benefits: 0.5GB/Day. Total 14GB Data. Post high-speed usage, unlimited data at 64 Kbps.
Validity: 28 Days
Effective Per Day Pricing: Rs 3.07

4. Jio 4G Feature Phone Addon Rs 122

Pack Type: 4G Feature Phone Data Pack (previously JioPhone data add-on)
Core Benefits: 1GB/Day. Total 28GB Data. Post high-speed usage, unlimited data at 64 Kbps.
Validity: 28 Days
Effective Per Day Pricing: Rs 4.35

5. Jio 4G Feature Phone Addon Rs 182

Pack Type: 4G Feature Phone Data Pack (previously JioPhone data add-on)
Core Benefits: 2GB/Day. Total 56GB Data. Post high-speed usage, unlimited data at 64 Kbps.
Validity: 28 Days
Effective Per Day Pricing: Rs 6.5

Jio First Recharge for 4G Feature Phones

New Jio customers opting for a 4G feature phone can avail a first recharge of Rs 21, which provides 0.5 GB data per day and thereafter unlimited data at 64 Kbps, along with unlimited national voice calls and 15 national SMS (in home and national roaming), valid for 4 days. This recharge is not available to existing customers.

According to a company note, 4G feature phones are devices with a physical keypad that are compatible with 4G LTE-VoLTE services offered by Jio.

Conclusion

It appears that following the removal of JioPhone/Jio Phone Prima plans, the entry-level 4G feature phone plan for 28 days has increased from Rs 91 (JioPhone plan) to Rs 123 (4G Feature Phone Plan). There has been no official communication from Jio as of this writing, and this story will be updated as more information becomes available.

Elon Musk, who is currently in a legal battle against OpenAI and Sam Altman, was questioned by OpenAI’s lawer over this. Musk had sued OpenAI because the company steered its operations from a non-profit to a for-profit company. On this, William Savitt, OpenAI’s lead attorney questioned Musk over why he didn’t start xAI as a non-profit as well?

Musk, visibly rattled (according to a report from The Guardian), said in a stern voice, “I started OpenAI as a non-profit. That is the entire basis for this whole lawsuit. Why would I start another non-profit when I already started a non-profit?”

There was a rapid fire exchange between Elon Musk and Savitt over what Musk knew about the OpenAI’s structure and forming for a for-profit branch within the company. At one point in this exchange, Musk said, “you can’t just steal a charity.”

Non-Profit Should Have Existed Within OpenAI

Elon Musk’s lawyer, Steven Molo, redirected the questions from Savitt and asked Musk to reaffirm a point he had made earling: that he was fine with OpenAI being a for-profit entity, as long as the non-profit division also existed.

It is worth noting that Musk had contributed millions of dollars to fund OpenAI when it was being formed in 2015. Sam Altman was one of the persons in the founding team. Altman now leads OpenAI and has turned the company into a completely for profit venture, raising billions of dollars in private equity where Altman set aside stocks worth billions for himself.

Cook said, “I think it’s a huge opportunity for us. We have been focused on this for a while. It’s the second largest smartphone market in the world and the third largest PC market. And despite doing extremely well there for quite some time, we still have a modest share.”

“If you look at the majority of customers in all of our categories from the iPhone to the Mac to the iPad to the watch, they are new to that product there. So it speaks very well to growing the install base there. Net net, I’m over the moon excited about India,” he added.

Apple is not only growing on the retail side of things, but is also seeing partnerships from enterprises. An Indian software company called Freshworks deployed over 5,000 MacBooks from Apple recently.

Focus on High Traffic and Urban Clusters

“Vi has been prioritising key markets including high data consumption centres, areas with significant footfall and emerging urban clusters. Goa marks an important addition to this footprint, given its position as one of India’s most prominent tourism destinations, with strong and consistent data demand from both residents and visitors across the year,” the telco said in an official release dated April 30, 2026.

With this launch, Vi said it aims to “enhance connectivity across the state, catering to the growing demand for high speed data services. The deployment is designed to deliver a seamless and enhanced network experience, especially in high-density locations, popular tourist hotspots and key commercial hubs.”

Vi 5G in Goa

Commenting on the development, Anand Dani, Cluster Business Head – Maharashtra and Goa, Vodafone Idea, said the launch represents an important milestone in the company’s 5G journey.

“We are accelerating the expansion of Vi’s 5G network in Goa, as we strengthen our footprint across key markets. The launch in Goa marks an important step in this journey. Our expansion is guided by a clear focus on prioritising high demand locations spanning high data consumption centres as well as areas with significant footfall including key tourism and commercial hubs ensuring a consistent and enhanced network experience for our users,” Dani said.

Musk sued for $130+ billion in damages and also asked for Altman to be removed from the company along with the organisation’s structure to be reversed to a non-profit. Musk has even referred to Sam Altman as Scam Altman on several occassions on his social media profile on X. The court case between the parties is now in full action.

Elon Musk was asked several tough questions at the courthouse by the OpenAI team during the cross-examination on Thursday. During the trial, Musk said repeatedly that “you can’t just steal a charity.”

More developments on the matter will be posted, so stay updated.

Right now, Vodafone Idea seems to be getting luck on its side. The telco has added new customers, and along with that it has also ensured that the capex (capital expenditure) remains elevated to quickly expand the network to new areas/regions and modernise the existing infrastructure for better experience for the customers.

As for the AGR dues, the telco will have to pay it off in six equal instalments from FY36 to FY41. Under the leadership of Abhijit Kishore, Vodafone Idea seems to be making steady progress. The telco’s survival in the industry is important to save the Indian market from become a duopoly. Vodafone Idea continues to talk to banks for additional funding and financing of its capex.

Vodafone Idea Rs 1189 Data Voucher

Vodafone Idea’s Rs 1189 data voucher comes with 50GB of data in total. The validity of this voucher is one year. Of course, this will work best on top of any long-term recharge plan. It will act as a data cushion on days where your daily consumption limit is exhausted.

Note that this plan doesn’t offer any additional service validity to the users. It doesn’t even offer any OTT (over-the-top) benefits separately. This is all you get with the plan. So, of course, it is not meant for everyone. However, for the ones who are looking for data vouchers they can recharge with and forget for a year, this is the best and only option from Vodafone Idea. In fact, with the other private telecom operators, you will likely not find any such data voucher present in the offerings. There’s a good reason for it as well. The telcos want their users to continously keep recharging with the data vouchers and this plan defeats that purpose. So it is interesting why Vodafone Idea is the lone player to offer such a plan to the consumers.

AGR dues reduced after reassessment by DoT panel

“… we now wish to submit that the DoT vide its communication dated 30 April 2026 has informed that the Committee formed for the purpose has finalized the AGR dues at Rs 64,046 crore as on 31 December 2025,” Vodafone Idea said in a stock exchange filing on Thursday.

The development comes in continuation of prior disclosures and in line with directions from the Supreme Court, which had permitted the government to consider the telecom operator’s grievances related to AGR liabilities. The earlier amount had remained subject to reassessment and approval by the designated committee.

Deferred payment plan stretches till FY41

As per the DoT’s communication, the revised dues will be paid over a staggered timeline beginning FY 2031-32. Vodafone Idea will pay a minimum of Rs 100 crore annually over four years from FY 2031-32 to FY 2034-35. The remaining balance will then be cleared in six equal annual instalments from FY 2035-36 through FY 2040-41.

The company stated that the disclosure has been made under Regulation 30 of the SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015, and is intended for information and record.

Vodafone Idea Prepaid Data Packs

1. Vi Data Pack Rs 22

Pack Type: Data Pack
Core Benefits: 1GB Data. Pack expires at midnight. Expires at 11-59 PM.
Validity: 1 Day
Available in: Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, Assam, Bihar, Delhi, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, Jammu and kashmir, Karnataka, Kolkata, Madhya Pradesh, North East, Odisha, Punjab, Rajasthan, UP East, UP West, West Bengal

2. Vi Data Pack Rs 23

Pack Type: Data Pack
Core Benefits: 1GB Data. Pack expires at midnight.
Validity: 1 Day
Subscriptions and Benefits: No service validity.
Effective Per Day Pricing: Rs 23.00
Available in: Chennai, Gujarat, Kerala, Maharashtra and Goa, Mumbai, Tamil Nadu

3. Vi Data Pack Rs 26

Pack Type: Data Pack
Core Benefits: 1.5GB Data. Pack expires at midnight 11-59 PM.
Validity: 1 Day
Effective Per Day Pricing: Rs 26.00
Available in: Circles List 1

Circles List 1:
Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, Assam, Bihar, Chennai, Delhi, Gujarat, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and kashmir, Karnataka, Kerala, Kolkata, Maharashtra and Goa, Madhya Pradesh, Mumbai, North East, Odisha, Punjab, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, UP East, UP West, West Bengal

4. Vi Data Pack Rs 33

Pack Type: Data Pack
Core Benefits: 2GB Data.
Validity: 2 Days
Effective Per Day Pricing: Rs 16.50
Available in: Circles List 1

5. Vi Data Pack Rs 44

Pack Type: Cricket Data Pack – New Launch
Core Benefits: 1GB Data. Pack expires at midnight 11:59 PM.
Validity: 1 Day
Subscriptions and Benefits: JioHotstar Mobile subscription for 28 Days.
Effective Per Day Pricing: Rs 44.00
Available in: Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, Assam, Bihar, Chennai, Delhi, Gujarat, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Karnataka, Kerala, Kolkata, Maharashtra and Goa, Madhya Pradesh, Mumbai, North East, Odisha, Punjab, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, UP East, UP West, West Bengal

6. Vi Data Pack Rs 48

Pack Type: Data Pack
Core Benefits: 6GB Data.
Validity: 3 Days
Subscriptions and Benefits: No service validity.
Effective Per Day Pricing: Rs 16.00
Available in: Circles List 1

7. Vi Data Pack Rs 49

Pack Type: Data Pack
Core Benefits: Unlimited Data. Post 20GB usage speed will be upto 64Kbps. Pack expires at midnight 11:59 PM.
Validity: 1 Day
Available in: Circles List 1

8. Vi Data Pack Rs 55

Pack Type: Add-on Data Pack for ULD users – New Launch
Core Benefits: Unlimited Data
Validity: 28 Days
Subscriptions and Benefits: ADD-ON Data pack for ULD users. No service validity.
In Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, Bihar, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan : Valid on Hero packs
In Chennai, Gujarat, Haryana, Kerala, Kolkata, Maharashtra & Goa, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, UP East, UP West, West Bengal: Valid on Hero and SuperHero packs.

9. Vi Data Pack Rs 61

Pack Type: Data Pack with Handset Insurance
Core Benefits: 2GB Data.
Validity: 15 Days
Subscriptions and Benefits: Handset loss insurance. No service validity.

Get upto Rs 25000 assured handset loss insurance cover for 30 days.

Complete the registration within 48 hours once the SMS recevied from insurance partner to get the real time insured value of the handset. Refund is only applicable in case handset is not eligible for insurance as per ABHICL conditions.

Effective Per Day Pricing: Rs 4.07
Available in: All Circles

10. Vi Data Pack Rs 69

Pack Type: Data Pack
Core Benefits: 3GB Data.
Validity: 28 Days
Subscriptions and Benefits: No service validity.
Effective Per Day Pricing: Rs 2.46
Available in: Circles List 1

11. Vi Data Pack Rs 89

Pack Type: Data Pack
Core Benefits: 6GB Data.
Validity: 7 Days
Subscriptions and Benefits: No service validity.
Effective Per Day Pricing: Rs 12.71
Available in: Circles List 1

12. Vi Data Pack Rs 95

Pack Type: Data + OTT Pack
Core Benefits: 4GB Data.
Validity: 14 Days
Subscriptions and Benefits: 28 Days of Sony Liv Mobile. No service validity.
Effective Per Day Pricing: Rs 6.79
Available in: Circles List 1

13. Vi Data Pack Rs 99

Pack Type: Daily Data Top-up, Add-On Data pack – New Launch
Core Benefits: Unlimited Data. Post 20GB usage per day, data speed will be upto 64 Kbps.
Validity: 2 Days
Subscriptions and Benefits: No service validity.
Effective Per Day Pricing: Rs 49.50
Available in: Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, Chennai, Delhi, Gujarat, Haryana, Karnataka, Kerala, Kolkata, Maharashtra and Goa, Madhya Pradesh, Mumbai, Punjab, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, UP East, UP West, West Bengal

14. Vi Data Pack Rs 101

Pack Type: Data Pack
Core Benefits: 5GB Data.
Validity: 30 Days
Subscriptions and Benefits: 28 Days of JioHotstar mobile.
Effective Per Day Pricing: Rs 3.37
Available in: Circles List 1

15. Vi Data Pack Rs 105

Pack Type: Add-on Data Pack for ULD users – New Launch
Core Benefits: Unlimited Data
Validity: 28 Days
Subscriptions and Benefits: ADD-ON Data pack for ULD users.

In Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, Chennai, Gujarat, Haryana, Karnataka, Kerala, Kolkata, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and Goa, Punjab, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, UP East, UP West, West Bengal: Valid on Rs 299, 340, 479, 719 packs. No service validity.
In Assam, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and kashmir, North East, Odisha: Valid on Rs 249, 299, 340, 479, 579, 719, 859 packs.
In Bihar: Valid on Rs 299, 300, 340, 479, 719 packs.

16. Vi Data Pack Rs 139

Pack Type: Data Pack
Core Benefits: 12GB Data.
Validity: 28 Days
Effective Per Day Pricing: Rs 4.96
Available in: Circles List 1

17. Vi Data Pack Rs 145

Pack Type: Daily Data Top-up
Core Benefits: 1GB/Day Data.
Validity: 28 Days
Effective Per Day Pricing: Rs 5.18
Available in: Circles List 1

18. Vi Data Pack Rs 151

Pack Type: Data Pack
Core Benefits: 4GB Data.
Validity: 90 Days
Subscriptions and Benefits: 84 Days of JioHotstar mobile subscription.
Effective Per Day Pricing: Rs 1.68
Available in: Circles List 1

19. Vi Data Pack Rs 154

Pack Type: Data Pack
Core Benefits: 2GB Data.
Validity: 1 Month
Subscriptions and Benefits: Watch ZEE5, SonyLIV, Lionsgate Play, Playflix, Fancode, Manoramax and many more on Mobile. Enjoy 19 OTT Apps, over 350 TV Channels in one subscription with Vi Movies and TV Lite plan.
Effective Per Day Pricing: Rs 5.13 (approx. for 30 days)
Available in: Circles List 1

20. Vi Data Pack Rs 169

Pack Type: Data Pack
Core Benefits: 8GB Data.
Validity: 90 Days
Subscriptions and Benefits: 84 Days of JioHotstar mobile.
Effective Per Day Pricing: Rs 1.88
Available in: Circles List 1

21. Vi Data Pack Rs 175

Pack Type: Data Pack – Best offer for T20 Cricket
Core Benefits: 10GB Data.
Validity: 28 Days
Subscriptions and Benefits: 20 OTTs with Vi Movies & TV App, including JioHotstar Mobile, ZEE5, SonyLIV, FanCode, Lionsgate Play, MX Player, Klikk, Chaupal,Playflix, Times Play, Pocket fims and more.
Effective Per Day Pricing: Rs 6.25
Available in: Circles List 1

22. Vi Data Pack Rs 201

Pack Type: Data Pack with Handset Insurance
Core Benefits: 10GB Data.
Validity: 30 Days
Subscriptions and Benefits: Handset loss insurance. No service validity.

Get upto Rs 25000 assured handset loss insurance cover for 180 days.

Complete the registration within 48 hours once the SMS recevied from insurance partner to get the real time insured value of the handset. Refund is only applicable in case handset is not eligible for insurance as per ABHICL conditions.

Effective Per Day Pricing: Rs 6.70
Available in: All Circles

23. Vi Data Pack Rs 202

Pack Type: Data Pack
Core Benefits: 5GB Data.
Validity: 1 Month
Subscriptions and Benefits: JioHotstar, SonyLIV, Lionsgate Play, Playflix, Fancode, Manoramax and many more on Mobile and TV. Enjoy 17 OTT Apps, over 350 TV Channels in one subscription with Vi Movies and TV Pro plan. No service validity.
Effective Per Day Pricing: Rs 6.73 (approx. for 30 days)
Available in: Circles List 1

24. Vi Data Pack Rs 208

Pack Type: Daily Data Top-up
Core Benefits: 1.5GB/Day Data.
Validity: 30 Days
Effective Per Day Pricing: Rs 6.93
Available in: Circles List 1

25. Vi Data Pack Rs 248

Pack Type: Data Pack
Core Benefits: 6GB Data.
Validity: 1 Month
Subscriptions and Benefits: Watch JioHotstar, ZEE5, SonyLIV, Lionsgate Play, Playflix, Fancode, Manoramax & many more on Mobile & TV. Enjoy 20 OTT Apps, 350+ TV Channels in one subscription with Vi Movies & TV Plus plan.
Effective Per Day Pricing: Rs 8.27 (approx. for 30 days)
Available in: Circles List 1

26. Vi Data Pack Rs 251

Pack Type: Data Pack with Handset Insurance
Core Benefits: 10GB Data.
Validity: 30 Days
Subscriptions and Benefits: Handset loss insurance. No service validity.

Get upto Rs 25000 assured handset loss insurance cover for 365 days.

Complete the registration within 48 hours once the SMS recevied from insurance partner to get the real time insured value of the handset. Refund is only applicable in case handset is not eligible for insurance as per ABHICL conditions.

Effective Per Day Pricing: Rs 8.37
Available in: All Circles

27. Vi Data Pack Rs 348

Pack Type: Work from Home offer
Core Benefits: 50GB Data.
Validity: 28 Days
Effective Per Day Pricing: Rs 12.43
Available in: Circles List 1

28. Vi Data Pack Rs 488

Pack Type: Work from Home offer
Core Benefits: 100GB Data.
Validity: 56 Days
Effective Per Day Pricing: Rs 8.71
Available in: Circles List 1

29. Vi Data Pack Rs 1189

Pack Type: Data Only Pack
Core Benefits: 50GB Data.
Validity: 365 Days
Subscriptions and Benefits: No service validity. No outgoing SMS.
Effective Per Day Pricing: Rs 3.26
Available in: Circles List 1

Circles List 1:
Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, Assam, Bihar, Chennai, Delhi, Gujarat, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and kashmir, Karnataka, Kerala, Kolkata, Maharashtra and Goa, Madhya Pradesh, Mumbai, North East, Odisha, Punjab, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, UP East, UP West, West Bengal

Conclusion

Vi has launched a few new packs and revised existing data packs to offer more value this cricket season. As of this writing, Vi offers around 28 open data packs that users can opt for if they need additional data to consume content.

Also in 2026 Tariff Series:

Reliance Jio Prepaid Data Packs, Including New and Refreshed Cricket Packs Detailed: April 2026 Edition

Reliance Jio 84-Day Validity Prepaid Plans: April 2026 Edition

OnePlus Nord CE 6 Lite 5G, OnePlus Nord CE 6 5G Availability

OnePlus Nord CE 6 will be available for the customers in India starting May 8, 2026, 12 PM. OnePlus Nord CE 6 Lite on the other hand will go on sale in India on May 12, 2026, at 12 PM. Both tthe devices will go on sale in India through Amazon.com, and the official website of OnePlus India along with the company’s partner retails stores.

These devices will be available in Fresh Blue, Lunar Pearl, and Pitch Black colourways. The devices seem packed with a lot of power and a huge battery. So it will be interesting to see how they perform when it comes to sales for the brand.

The CMF Watch 3 Pro brings together a bright and immersive AMOLED display with precision mettal build and dual-band multi-system GPS for accurate tracking. The smartwatch is paired with up to 13-day battery life and is designed to deliver reliable performance while helping users stay on top of their health and routines.

More details around the launch and the smartwatch are expected to be teased and revealed by the brand in the coming days.