Author: Lingraj Sahu
Lingraj is one of the youngest members of TelecomByte, and a recent tech geek convert. When he's not churning out articles, you’ll find him watching sports, exploring new places, and listening to music.
The Galaxy Buds Core have already appeared on the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) website. This certification, along with Samsung’s teaser, indicates that the product is likely to launch in India soon. The Samsung Galaxy Buds Core is poised to make its debut in India, representing an impressive addition to Samsung’s esteemed audio product lineup. These wireless earphones are designed to cater to a diverse range of users, from audiophiles to casual listeners, emphasizing convenience and high-quality sound. As part of Samsung’s ongoing commitment to innovation, the Galaxy Buds Core aims to enhance the audio experience significantly, drawing on enhanced…
Although the government hasn’t acted on those proposals, it remains open to discussions with anyone, Pemmasani told the publication. As for Vodafone Idea, being a publicly listed company, it is responsible for managing its own affairs, the minister added. Vodafone Idea, commonly referred to as Vi, stands as the third-largest telecommunications operator in India, a position it has held since the merger of Vodafone India and Idea Cellular in 2018. This merger aimed to create a competitive force against industry giants like Reliance Jio and Airtel. However, Vodafone Idea has encountered significant hurdles in the form of financial instability, intense…
The Jio AX6000 Wi-Fi 6 Router delivers speeds up to 6 Gbps and supports all ISPs, but it is limited to DHCP connections and does not support PPPoE or IPoE networks. The Jio AX6000 Wi-Fi 6 Router emerges as a powerful contender in the realm of home networking, boasting impressive capabilities that cater to the demands of modern internet users. As a flagship device, it is engineered to deliver lightning-fast speeds of up to 6 Gbps, which positions it as a noteworthy solution for high-bandwidth activities such as streaming, gaming, and video conferencing. This remarkable throughput is facilitated by the…
According to TRAI’s Q1 2025 report, India has 918 licensed satellite channels, including 333 Pay TV channels, of which 101 are in HD. However, the Pay DTH sector is facing challenges, with subscriber numbers declining to 56.92 million. The television broadcasting landscape in India has evolved significantly over the years, establishing itself as one of the most dynamic and content-rich markets in the world. According to TRAI’s Q1 2025 report, the Indian television ecosystem boasts an impressive total of over 1,000 permitted satellite TV channels. This vast array of channels caters to diverse audiences, reflecting the country’s multilingual and multicultural…
Explore India’s best 1-day data plans from Jio, Airtel & Vi. Compare prices, data limits, validity & value. Who offers the most GB? India’s mobile-first population is growing by the second, and so is the demand for affordable, short-term data plans. In 2025, Jio, Airtel, and Vi are battling fiercely to win over users with 1-day data packs priced between ₹19 and ₹49. These plans are no longer just small top-ups—they’re powerful tools to retain users, ensure daily app usage, and keep India connected. Why Are 1-Day Data Plans So Popular in India? With over 1 billion mobile users, India’s…
Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL), India’s fourth-largest telecom operator, has launched its Q-5G Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) service. The new service aims to be a potential game changer for BSNL. Currently, two monthly plans are available, priced at Rs 999 and Rs 1499. BSNL may introduce additional plans in the future. The telecommunications sector in India has witnessed rapid developments in recent years, driven predominantly by innovative technology and competitive market dynamics. A hallmark of this evolving landscape is Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited’s (BSNL) new service offering, the Q-5G Fixed Wireless Access (FWA). Launched at an affordable price point starting…
Xiaomi’s newest Pad 7 is now available in India starting at Rs 26,999 for the 8GB+128GB model on Amazon. Additionally, users can apply a Rs 1,000 discount coupon, reducing the price to Rs 25,999 The Xiaomi Pad 7 has recently made its debut in the Indian market, generating considerable excitement among tech enthusiasts and potential buyers. Launched with a focus on delivering an exceptional user experience, the Xiaomi Pad 7 stands out due to its robust specifications and competitive pricing. Initially, the tablet was introduced at a price point that attracted many consumers, but recent developments have made the Xiaomi…
Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia has dismissed the possibility of any relief for telecom companies regarding Adjusted Gross Revenue (AGR) dues, affirming that the government does not intend to waive interest or penalties after the Supreme Court’s ruling. In an interview with The Times of India, Scindia stressed that the issue has been conclusively decided by the apex court, and there is no plan to reconsider it. Adjusted Gross Revenue (AGR) dues represent a significant financial burden for telecom operators in India, including Vodafone Idea. The AGR is essentially a calculation used by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) to…
Jio’s AX6000 router promises speeds of up to 6 Gbps, AI-powered mesh coverage, and seamless smart home connectivity, which the company describes as its latest innovation. The Jio AX6000 Universal Router represents a significant advancement in home connectivity, being one of the foremost Wi-Fi 6 routers in the Indian market. This state-of-the-art device is meticulously engineered to cater to the evolving demands of modern smart homes where high-speed internet and seamless connectivity are paramount. Offering an impressive combination of performance, affordability, and advanced features, the Jio AX6000 is poised to redefine the home internet experience for users across the country.…
Six-month extension granted to allow compliance with updated security norms; Starlink still awaits regulatory clearance. The recent decision by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) in India to extend the provisional satellite spectrum to OneWeb and the Jio-SES joint venture marks a critical development in the landscape of satellite communication. This strategic move not only reinforces India’s commitment to enhancing connectivity, particularly in underserved and remote regions, but it also opens new avenues for the expansion of satellite broadband services across the nation. With the growing reliance on digital infrastructure, satellite communication is emerging as a crucial technology capable of bridging…
Airtel’s Annual Customer Day initiative emphasizes direct customer engagement, service improvements, and relationship building. Airtel’s Annual Customer Day stands as a significant initiative aimed at fostering direct engagement between the company and its valued customers. Scheduled to take place on [insert date], this annual event allows Airtel employees to connect personally with customers, thus enhancing the company’s commitment to customer satisfaction. It is a testament to Airtel’s ongoing dedication to service excellence in the telecommunications sector. The primary purpose of the Annual Customer Day is to create a platform for open dialogue, where customers can freely share their experiences, concerns,…
The Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) urges regulatory intervention for OTT platforms to share network costs, combat spam, and secure the 6GHz spectrum for 5G and 6G expansion. The surge in data traffic generated by large over-the-top (OTT) platforms has resulted in escalating financial challenges for Indian telecom operators. As the demand for data continues to rise, these telcos have found themselves under pressure to maintain and enhance their network infrastructure, which incurs significant operational costs. Notably, the Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) has recently voiced concerns regarding this mounting burden, advocating for fair contributions from OTT platforms…
Mittal praises telecom-satellite collaborations as Airtel and Jio partner with SpaceX’s Starlink, ushering in a new era of seamless global connectivity. The advent of the digital age has necessitated an unprecedented collaboration between telecommunications and satellite services. Recently, notable partnerships between leading telecom companies in India, including Bharti Airtel and Jio Platforms, and SpaceX’s Starlink have garnered attention. These alliances signal a transformative shift in how global connectivity is perceived and achieved, emphasizing the need for integrated solutions in an increasingly interconnected world. Sunil Bharti Mittal, the founder and chairman of Bharti Enterprises, has articulated a supportive stance toward these…
The internal shareholding restructuring does not affect Airtel Payments Bank’s ownership. Recently, Bharti Airtel undertook a significant restructuring exercise, transferring its 69.94% stake in Airtel Payments Bank to its wholly owned subsidiary, Airtel Limited. This move is primarily aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and aligning the payments bank closely with the parent company’s overarching strategic objectives. Such internal reorganizations are not uncommon in large corporations, particularly in rapidly evolving sectors like fintech, where agility and adaptability are pivotal for success. The motivations behind this stake transfer are multifaceted. By consolidating ownership under Airtel Limited, Bharti Airtel can streamline governance and…
The Samsung Galaxy F16 5G features a 6.7-inch AMOLED display with an FHD+ resolution of 1080 x 2340 pixels, a 90Hz refresh rate, and peak brightness support of 800 nits. Samsung has once again made headlines with the launch of its latest entry-level smartphones, the Galaxy F16 5G and Galaxy F06 5G, targeting the Indian market. This strategic move reflects Samsung’s commitment to democratizing 5G technology and providing consumers with affordable yet advanced mobile options. In an era where 5G connectivity is becoming increasingly important, these devices are significant additions to Samsung’s lineup, enabling a broader audience to access superior…
The telecom giant seeks to eliminate fraud through SMS and calls while advocating for regulations on OTT spam. Airtel, one of India’s leading telecommunications companies, has recently undertaken significant initiatives to address the rising threat of online scams affecting its extensive user base. With approximately 380 million mobile subscribers, Airtel recognizes the critical importance of ensuring a safe digital environment for its customers. As online scams, including phishing attempts and fraudulent activities via SMS and voice calls, become increasingly sophisticated, Airtel is committed to developing innovative technologies that not only detect but also neutralize these threats effectively. The company’s strategy…
Xiaomi 15 has been launched in India at Rs 64,999 for the 12GB+512GB variant, available in Black, White, and Green. Customers pre-booking the device can avail an ICICI Bank cashback offer of Rs 5,000. Additionally, buyers will receive a complimentary Xiaomi Care Plan worth Rs 5,999 at no extra cost. The recent launch of the Xiaomi 15 series in India marks a significant moment in the Indian smartphone landscape. With the introduction of the Xiaomi 15 and Xiaomi 15 Ultra, the brand aims to reinforce its commitment to delivering cutting-edge technology and innovative features at competitive prices. This series is…
Jio and SpaceX partner to enhance broadband connectivity across India, bringing Starlink’s satellite internet services to remote and rural areas. The collaboration between Reliance Jio and SpaceX marks a significant milestone in the landscape of broadband connectivity in India. This partnership aims to leverage SpaceX’s innovative Starlink internet technology to enhance internet access across the subcontinent, particularly in underserved rural and remote areas. The agreement comes at a time when India’s digital infrastructure is increasingly pivotal to its economic growth and social development. The motivation behind this partnership stems from both companies’ recognition of the urgent need for expansive broadband…
For wireline users, Jio gained 0.65 million new subscribers, while Airtel added 0.16 million. In contrast, BSNL and Vodafone Idea saw a decline, with BSNL losing 0.03 million users and Vi losing 0.009 million users. In December 2024, Reliance Jio continued to demonstrate its formidable position in the Indian telecom market with the addition of approximately 4 million new wireless users. This significant growth not only underscores Jio’s commitment to enhancing its service offerings but also reflects the increasing consumer preference for its reliable network. As of the end of 2024, Jio’s total wireless user base reached an impressive milestone,…
Airtel partners with SpaceX to expand high-speed satellite broadband services throughout India. In a significant development in the telecommunications sector, Bharti Airtel has entered into a partnership with SpaceX, aiming to introduce Starlink’s high-speed satellite internet services to India. This collaboration marks Starlink’s inaugural entry into the Indian market, a move that is particularly noteworthy given the increasing demand for reliable internet connectivity across the nation. With a focus on expanding digital access, this partnership is poised to bridge the connectivity gap in underserved and rural areas, where traditional internet services may be limited. The agreement between Bharti Airtel and…
Vodafone Idea Fails to Provide Rs 6,090 Crore Bank Guarantee to DoT: Implications and Future Actions
Vi fails to provide a bank guarantee or cash payment for the 2015 spectrum auction shortfall, sparking concerns about potential DoT action. The Department of Telecommunications (DOT) set forth specific requirements regarding the bank guarantee that Vodafone Idea, commonly referred to as Vi, must fulfill. A critical component of these requirements is the provision of a substantial bank guarantee amounting to Rs 6,090.7 crore. This figure arises from shortfalls related to the 2015 spectrum auction, during which significant sums were bid by various telecommunications companies, including Vi. The aim of implementing such bank guarantees is to ensure that telecom operators…
According to Ookla, 5G download speeds declined from 259.67 Mbps in early January to 151.09 Mbps at peak congestion on January 26. However, by the end of the event, speeds rebounded to 206.82 Mbps. Meanwhile, 4G speeds varied between 13.38 Mbps and 21.68 Mbps. The Maha Kumbh Mela, one of the world’s largest religious gatherings, is a significant cultural event in India that takes place every twelve years at four sacred locations along the banks of rivers. The 2025 edition of this grand event was held from early January to late February, attracting millions of pilgrims, devotees, and tourists from…
Apple has officially launched the MacBook Air M4 in India, bringing its latest lightweight laptop with upgraded performance and AI-ready capabilities. The new MacBook Air comes in two sizes—13-inch and 15-inch—and is powered by Apple’s cutting-edge M4 chip, promising enhanced efficiency and power. The launch of the Apple MacBook Air M4 in India marks a significant milestone in the tech community, reflecting Apple’s continual innovation and commitment to providing powerful yet portable computing solutions. As one of the most eagerly anticipated products of the year, the MacBook Air M4 carries forward the esteemed legacy of its predecessors, which have made…
Introduction to the Spectrum Allocation Debate The ongoing debate surrounding the allocation of satellite broadband spectrum in India highlights a complex interaction between key players in the telecommunications sector and the government. Major telecom operators, including Bharti Airtel, Reliance Jio, and Vodafone Idea (Vi), find themselves at the center of this controversy as they strive to secure what they perceive as their rightful share of the valuable spectrum. The allocation of satellite broadband spectrum holds critical implications for both terrestrial and satellite communication firms, especially considering the rapid evolution of the digital landscape and the increasing demand for high-speed internet…
Airtel Expands 5G Network, Boosts Revenue Share, and Grows Financial Services with Bajaj Finance Partnership Bharti Airtel, a leading player in the telecommunications sector, is leveraging its expansion into 5G technology to significantly enhance its market position. With the proliferation of high-speed internet and the increasing reliance on digital services, the rollout of 5G is poised to revolutionize the telecom landscape in India. Bharti Airtel’s strategic investments in 5G infrastructure are not only expected to increase its revenue share but also improve its competitive edge against other telecom giants. One of the notable impacts of 5G technology is anticipated revenue…
The new JioSoundPay feature supports small businesses by providing multilingual audio confirmations for UPI payments, all at no charge. In an era where digital transactions have become quintessential, Jio has unveiled an innovative feature known as JioSoundPay, aimed specifically at empowering small businesses across India. This newly launched service is designed to cater to the JioBharat phone, integrating seamless multilingual audio confirmations for Unified Payments Interface (UPI) transactions. By leveraging this technology, Jio is focusing on enhancing the transaction experience for businesses and customers alike. JioSoundPay stands out for its dual functionality. Not only does it secure payments through a…
The data reveals that the total number of wireless subscribers dropped from 1,150.42 million at the end of October 2024 to 1,148.65 million at the end of November 2024, reflecting a monthly decline of 0.15 percent. The telecommunications landscape in India has reached a pivotal juncture as of November 2024, highlighted by significant shifts in subscriber numbers among the major telecom operators. This changing dynamic reveals a worrying trend for several key players in the industry, as total wireless subscribers have experienced a marked decline. Such trends fundamentally affect the competitive landscape and highlight the varying performances of the market…
In November 2024, Reliance Jio gained 0.61 million wireline customers, while Bharti Airtel added 0.14 million and Vi saw an increase of 0.004 million users. Jio held a 42.33% market share in the wireline segment, with Airtel securing the second position at 25.15%. The wireline segment in the telecommunications industry has witnessed substantial growth in November 2024, notably driven by advancements in technology and increased demand for high-speed internet connectivity. Among the key players, Reliance Jio has emerged as the front-runner, successfully adding approximately 0.61 million new wireline customers within the month. This significant increase affirms Jio’s strategic initiatives targeting…
Vodafone Idea’s New Plan Offers Unlimited Voice Calls and SMS Benefits for Mid-Term Validity Users Vodafone Idea has introduced an appealing RS 1,460 prepaid plan, catering primarily to users who prioritize voice calls and SMS services over data usage. This plan offers unlimited voice calling within India, making it an attractive option for customers who engage extensively in voice communications. Additionally, subscribers benefit from 100 SMS that are valid throughout the plan’s duration, which spans an impressive 270 days. This duration provides significant value, ensuring that users are not frequently burdened with the need to recharge. In light of recent…
BSNL’s chairman, Robert J Ravi, revealed that nearly 65,000 4G sites are now live, bringing the company closer to its target of achieving 100,000 4G sites with indigenous technology by mid-2025. Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) has been a significant player in the Indian telecom sector since its inception in 2000. As a government-owned entity, BSNL has consistently provided telecommunications services across various regions in India, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas where other private operators have less coverage. This historical context places BSNL in a unique position to contribute to the nation’s digital landscape, particularly now as it embarks…
The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra stands out as the most premium and powerful device in the series. It is equipped with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite SoC, offering up to 16GB of RAM and 1TB of internal storage. The device runs on Android 15 and is set to receive seven Android updates. The recent launch of the Samsung Galaxy S25 series marks a significant moment for the tech giant, reinforcing its commitment to innovation and excellence in the highly competitive smartphone market. As Samsung aims to strengthen its position against other flagship devices, this series introduces three compelling models: the…
Truecaller users on iPhones can now view Live Caller ID. According to Truecaller, this feature is made possible through Apple’s Live Caller ID Lookup framework, which has been specifically designed for apps like Truecaller. Truecaller has emerged as a vital tool in the call identification domain, providing users with the ability to recognize incoming calls, thus enhancing communication safety and efficiency. In a world inundated with spam calls and potential scams, having a reliable caller ID system has become increasingly important for individuals seeking to protect their privacy and avoid unwanted interruptions. Truecaller empowers users to identify callers by name…
Mittal reportedly stated that Bharti Enterprises has already launched 635 satellites and is offering services in various parts of the world. Bharti Airtel, one of India’s leading telecommunications companies, has recently made significant strides in expanding its service offerings with the introduction of Airtel satellite services. This initiative aligns with the growing demand for reliable and comprehensive communication solutions across the nation, especially in remote and underserved areas where traditional telecommunication infrastructure is often lacking. The rollout of Airtel satellite services comes on the heels of Bharti Enterprises’ successful launch of 635 satellites globally, positioning the company as a significant…
New Jio plans provide voice and SMS benefits without data, specifically catering to elderly and rural users. In a significant move aimed at adapting to consumer needs, Reliance Jio has unveiled its latest voice and SMS-only prepaid plans. This introduction comes in response to a directive issued by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI), which emphasizes the necessity for telecom providers to cater to a broader customer base by ensuring affordability and access to basic communication services. The recent changes in market dynamics and regulatory environment have prompted Jio to consider alternatives that serve specific demographics, most notably the…
Explore Airtel’s new prepaid plans at Rs 499 and Rs 1,959, tailored for users who require only voice and SMS services. In an evolving telecommunications landscape, Bharti Airtel has recently launched a series of voice and SMS-only prepaid plans, with the starting price at Rs 499. This strategic move comes in response to directives from the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI), which mandated service providers to develop plans catering specifically to users who primarily rely on voice calls and SMS, without the need for data services. Recognizing the diverse needs of its customer base, Airtel aims to provide economical…
iPhone 13 is available on Amazon India for Rs 43,999 for the 128GB base variant. With a Rs 1,000 instant discount on SBI Credit Cards, the price drops to Rs 42,999. As of 2025, the pricing landscape for the iPhone 13 remains competitive and appealing, particularly for consumers looking to enter the Apple ecosystem at a more budget-friendly tier. On one of the leading online retail platforms, Amazon, the base variant of the iPhone 13 is currently priced at ₹43,999. However, shoppers can benefit from an instant discount of ₹1,000 when using SBI credit cards, effectively reducing the price to…
In an exciting development for spiritual and cultural enthusiasts, Vodafone Idea (Vi) has announced its partnership with Shemaroo to live-stream the much-anticipated Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, offering a virtual experience for millions of viewers. This collaboration aims to bring the sacred rituals, cultural performances, and devotional atmosphere of the Kumbh Mela directly to users, allowing them to witness the grand event from anywhere in the world. The Maha Kumbh Mela is an ancient Hindu pilgrimage that occurs every twelve years at the sacred confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers, known as Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. This…
JioFiber/AirFiber postpaid customers on the following plans—Rs 888, Rs 1199, Rs 1499, Rs 2499, and Rs 3499—can avail of this offer. With a YouTube Premium subscription, users enjoy an ad-free viewing experience, the ability to download videos for offline watching, background play, and access to YouTube Music Premium. Reliance Jio has made significant strides in the telecommunications sector since its inception, and now it has taken a bold step by introducing an exclusive offer for its JioFiber and AirFiber postpaid broadband customers. This initiative provides users with a remarkable opportunity to enjoy two years of free YouTube Premium subscription, marking…
The Landscape of Indian Telecom: Current Players and Their Strategies The Indian telecom market has undergone significant transformation over the past few years, largely propelled by key players such as Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel. These companies have not only disrupted traditional services but have also set the trajectory toward advanced offerings, particularly through the introduction of 5G technology. As the competitive landscape continues to evolve, these providers are increasingly targeting premium customers with tailored solutions, thus raising the stakes for remaining contenders like Vodafone Idea (Vi). Reliance Jio, which entered the market in 2016, has rapidly garnered a substantial…
The POCO X7 Pro is available in three colors: Nebular Green, Obsidian Black, and Yellow (the signature POCO color). It features a 6.67-inch display with a resolution of 2712 x 1220 pixels. The Poco X7 Pro is a significant addition to the mid-range smartphone market, launched with the intention of offering advanced features at an attractive price point. With growing competition in the segment, Poco has managed to create a niche for itself by delivering devices that boast value without compromising on performance. The Poco X7 Pro is specifically designed for tech-savvy users who seek a premium experience in a…