New Delhi: Reliance Jio, the leading telecom operator in India, has unveiled the Jio Bharat 4G phone as part of its mission to drive the “2G-MUKT BHARAT” vision. The company has partnered with Karbonn to launch one of the two Jio Bharat phone models, with plans for other brands to join the ‘Jio Bharat platform’ and introduce more affordable models in the near future.
The initial batch of Jio Bharat phones, comprising approximately 1 million units, will be available for purchase from July 7, 2023, at retail stores across the country. The Jio Bharat phone, despite its feature phone appearance, is a smart 4G phone equipped with a keypad and the Bharat branding below the screen. It also features a rear camera, speakers, and supports various entertainment options such as JioCinema, JioSaavn, and FM Radio. Additionally, users can enjoy unlimited calling within India, capture photos, and make UPI payments using JioPay.
Get Ready for #JioBharat ??? #WithLoveFromJio ❤️ #DigitalIndia #JioSaavn #JioCinema #Music #India #Bharat pic.twitter.com/C60WK7Nzvg
— Reliance Jio (@reliancejio) July 3, 2023
The Jio Bharat phone comes in two models, distinguished by the brand logo on the back cover. One model showcases the “Jio” logo, while the other displays the “Karbonn” logo. Customers can choose between two color options, blue and red.
Alongside the phone launch, Reliance Jio has introduced new Jio Bharat plans, priced at Rs 123 and Rs 1234. The Rs 123 plan offers a total of 14GB data (0.5GB per day) and unlimited voice calls with a validity of 28 days. The annual Rs 1234 plan provides 168GB of data (0.5GB per day) and unlimited calling benefits. These plans are specifically designed for users who purchase the Jio-branded phone. For Jio Bharat phones launched in collaboration with other brands (currently Karbonn), two plans are available: the Rs 179 plan with a validity of 28 days and the annual Rs 1799 plan. Both plans offer the same benefits as the Jio Bharat plans.
Addressing the launch of Jio Bharat phones, Akash Ambani, Chairman of Reliance Jio, expressed the significance of bridging the digital divide in India. He emphasized that around 250 million mobile phone users in the country are still confined to the limitations of 2G technology, unable to access basic internet features, while the world stands on the brink of a 5G revolution.
The introduction of the Jio Bharat phone aims to provide affordable connectivity and internet access to those who have been left behind in the 2G era, enabling them to embrace the benefits of digital technology. Reliance Jio’s initiative aligns with the Indian government’s push for a digitally inclusive society, promoting access to the internet and its services for all citizens.
