Reliance Jio could make some big announcements at its expected event later this week, which could mark the launch of its much anticipated feature phone. The phone is likely to support 4G VoLTE (only available with Jio right now) and priced around Rs 1,000 to Rs 1,500.
Reports suggest that Mukesh Ambani, Chairman of Reliance Industries, will hold a media briefing on the sidelines of the company’s AGM, where a slew of consumer-centric launches would be made.
Jio’s rumoured feature phone has been a well-documented story, with Spreadtrum claiming it will provide processors for the upcoming device.
Lava is the only brand to officially launch its 4G VoLTE feature phone in India till now, but with Jio pegged to make its move, one can expect others to follow suit in the coming months.
Also Read: Decoded: How India’s First-Ever 4G VoLTE Feature Phone Works
More than anything else, people are excited about Jio coming out with a feature phone, that is bound to be bundled with attractive 4G data plans. The phone could support apps like Jio Cinema, Jio Music; which will definitely appeal to entry-level consumers, and Tier III and IV markets.
Why Jio Needs the Feature Phone
Ever since Jio started charging its customers for data ( as voice calls are bundled with data on 4G VoLTE), the number of users hopping over to Jio has gradually gone down. While its competitors continue to add users in millions.
In order to attract more users towards its network, the launch of 4G feature phone couldn’t come at a better time. The sales of smartphone in India, according to latest research reports, have gone down, while feature phones are still big on demand.
So, phone makers have decided to play with the trend, and tweak it to support 4G VoLTE, which means you can surf the web and watch movies, even with a phone that comes with a display less than 3-inch.
Jio can make merry with these devices, and sweeten the deal for buyers with low-cost data plans bundled to whoever buys it. Problem solved, then? Well, Jio would be hoping it does, and kick start a new market for such devices in the country.
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