Reliance Jio expects to be biggest player in 5G industry in 2023, company chairman says

India’s biggest telecom operator Reliance Jio expects to become the world’s biggest player to have a pure 5G network this year with the promise of delivering services at affordable rates to the masses, a senior official here said. the society.

Speaking to PTI at Mobile World Congress, Reliance Jio Chairman Mathew Oommen said India needs inclusive growth and Jio will continue to support it.

“Jio will be the world’s largest 5G SA (standalone) network operator in the second half of 2023, ensuring that all advanced services and capabilities are available at an affordable price for the masses,” Oommen said.

He was answering questions about the company’s 5G rollout plan and Jio’s competitor, Bharti Airtel, pushing for higher prices for mobile calls and data services. Jio has focused on rolling out 5G SA while Bharti Airtel is rolling out a 5G non-standalone network (NSA) that can provide a combination of 5G and 4G services.

“India needs inclusive growth. Jio will continue to support India’s inclusive growth,” Oommen said.

Bharti Airtel Chairman Sunil Bharti Mittal said earlier this week that mobile call and data rates will increase this year as the return on capital in the telecom sector is very low.

Last month, Airtel had raised the price of its minimum recharge or entry price of the 28-day mobile phone service plan by around 57% to Rs. 155 in eight circles.

Oommen did not elaborate on the statement.

Jio has rolled out its 5G network in over 300 cities while Airtel has a network in over 140 cities.