Jio 5G Users Aged 18–25 Get Free Access to Google Gemini AI Pro Plan

Reliance Jio has partnered with Google to offer eligible users 18 months of free access to the Gemini 2.5 Pro AI plan—worth ₹35,100—starting October 30, 2025. This offer is currently available to Jio 5G users aged 18–25 on unlimited plans.

What’s Included in the Gemini AI Pro Plan

• Gemini 2.5 Pro model: Google's flagship AI with enhanced reasoning and multimodal capabilities.
• AI image and video generation: Create visuals by describing ideas—ideal for students, creators, and developers.
• NotebookLM: AI-powered research and writing assistant with 5× higher usage limits.
• 2 TB Google Cloud storage: For photos, documents, and collaborative work.
• AI integration in Google Workspace: Use Gemini directly inside Gmail, Docs, Sheets, and more.
• AI image editing tools: Transform photos into creative assets using Gemini’s latest image update.

Who’s Eligible and How to Claim

• Eligibility: Jio 5G users aged 18–25 subscribed to Unlimited 5G plans.
• Claim Process:
  • Open the MyJio app.
  • Look for the Google Gemini Offer banner.
  • Follow the steps to activate your free 18-month subscription.

Strategic Impact

• Follows similar AI democratization efforts like ChatGPT Go being offered free in India from November 4, 2025.
• Airtel previously partnered with Perplexity AI for a one-year free access plan.
• Google Cloud is also partnering with Reliance Intelligence to expand enterprise AI adoption across India.

Why It Matters

This partnership is a major step in making premium AI tools accessible to India’s youth and 5G user base. It blends Reliance’s massive reach with Google’s cutting-edge AI, potentially reshaping how millions engage with productivity, creativity, and research tools.

Vi’s AI-Powered Vi Protect Flags 600M+ Scam Calls, Launches Real-Time Threat Response

Vi, India’s leading telecom operator, today announced Vi Protect, a comprehensive AI-powered initiative that unifies all of Vi’s consumer, network, and enterprise safety and security measures against the rapidly evolving landscape of spam, scams, and cyber-attacks under one umbrella.

As part of this initiative, Vi introduced two powerful measures at India Mobile Congress (IMC) 2025. An AI-based Voice Spam Detection system and AI-driven network defence and incident response system for its core network.

Vi’s voice spam detection detects and flags fraudulent and spam calls in real time. Using advanced AI models, web crawlers, and user feedback, it identifies suspicious callers before they reach the customer. When a potentially fraudulent number calls a Vi customer, the phone screen will display ‘Suspected Spam’, thereby helping customers decide whether to answer the call. Unlike third-party caller ID apps, this feature works natively within Vi’s network, ensuring better accuracy, and enhanced privacy.

This new feature builds on Vi’s existing robust consumer protection measures that now fall under the Vi Protect umbrella, including:

• Spam Filtering of Text Messages: Fraudulent SMS messages are detected and flagged to customers
• International Calling Display: A first of its kind measure in the industry, International Calling Display makes it easier for customers to easily recognise genuine international calls and make informed decisions
• AI-powered Threat Analysis: Integrated with Vi’s DNS, SMS, and Voice Gateways, an analytical engine continuously learns from threat patterns to enhance protection

Thus far, Vi’s security systems have successfully flagged over 600 million spam and scam calls and messages, protecting millions of customers from fraud and data theft. Vi will soon be launching URL Protection in real time: scanning and blocking suspicious links to prevent phishing and malware attacks.

Under Vi Protect, Vi has also introduced an upgraded AI-powered Cyber Defense and Incident Response System to protect its core network and enterprise operations. This defense center uses agentic and generative AI models to detect, analyze, and neutralize potential cyber threats in under an hour, compared to earlier longer response times. The system is nearly 70 percent more accurate and minimizes false positives. The solution follows a five-step defense mechanism including:

• Anomaly Detection: Agentic AI proactively detects abnormal activity
• Contextualization and Categorization: The system classifies incidents using contextual intelligence
• Interface Engine Agent: High-volume data is processed for rapid decision-making
• Suggestive Intelligence: AI prioritizes response actions based on risk levels
• Human Validation: Expert analysts validate AI findings, continuously improving the model

Vi will also extend this capability to its enterprise customers soon, offering predictive insights by co-relating global cyber events and attack timelines.

Through Vi Protect, Vi is reinforcing its commitment to cyber resilience and enhancing customer trust, strengthening its role as a secure and trusted enabler of India’s digital future.

Speaking on Vi Protect, Jagbir Singh, Chief Technology Officer, Vi, said –

With India’s growing digital adoption and global prominence, protecting customers networks has never been more important. Vi Protect uses advanced AI and proactive measures to protect our customers and strengthen our networks. Vi Protect is our commitment to a safe and trusted digital environment.

#Unplugged: How Vodafone’s Digital Wellbeing Campaign in EU Can Inspire Telcos Across Asia

In an era of hyperconnectivity, the Vodafone Foundation’s new pan-European initiative, #Unplugged, offers a timely and replicable blueprint for promoting digital wellbeing among young people. Launched this week across six European countries, the campaign is a social-first movement designed to foster healthier digital habits—without preaching abstinence. For telecom operators and digital foundations in Asia, #Unplugged presents a compelling model for engagement, education, and impact.

What Is #Unplugged?

#Unplugged is an 8-week social media campaign targeting teenagers and young adults across Albania, Germany, the Netherlands, Portugal, Romania, and Spain. It’s hosted on Vodafone Foundation’s Kliick feeds and delivered by local content creators in native languages. The tone is playful, relatable, and challenge-driven—designed to resonate with Gen Z on platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube.

Rather than advocating for digital detoxes, the campaign encourages:

• Mindful screen time
• Offline engagement
• Self-reflection

It’s about balance, not restriction.

Why It Matters

Vodafone Foundation’s study in Germany revealed:

• 69% of youth spend over 2 hours daily on social media
• 29% feel stressed by their usage
• 26% feel guilty about it

These numbers echo trends across Asia, where smartphone penetration is high and digital stress is rising. From Seoul to Mumbai, Jakarta to Manila, young people are navigating the same pressures—constant notifications, algorithmic addiction, and blurred boundaries between online and offline life.

Why Asia’s Telcos Should Pay Attention

Asia is home to some of the world’s most digitally active youth populations. Telcos here are not just connectivity providers—they’re cultural influencers, content distributors, and digital educators. By adapting #Unplugged, they can:

• Build trust with younger audiences through authentic, wellbeing-focused messaging
• Support national digital literacy goals and mental health initiatives
• Strengthen ESG credentials with measurable social impact
• Collaborate with educators, creators, and NGOs to localize content and amplify reach

How to Localize #Unplugged in Asia

Component	European Model	Asian Adaptation
Platform	TikTok, Instagram, YouTube	Add WhatsApp, LINE, WeChat, and regional platforms like Moj or ShareChat
Content Creators	Local influencers in native languages	Partner with youth icons, educators, and mental health advocates
Tone	Humorous, challenge-based	Blend humor with cultural sensitivity and local storytelling
Policy Linkage	Vodafone’s Skills Upload Junior + Save the Children	Align with national digital literacy programs, school curriculums, and CSR mandates
Measurement	Reach, engagement, sentiment	Add mental health surveys, school partnerships, and community feedback loops

A Call to Action for Asia’s Telcos

The digital wellbeing of young people is no longer a fringe issue—it’s central to the future of inclusive, responsible connectivity. Campaigns like #Unplugged show that telcos can lead with empathy, creativity, and impact. By adapting this model, Asian telecom companies can move beyond infrastructure and into influence—shaping healthier digital cultures for the next generation.

Vodafone Expands in Eastern Europe with $32M Telekom Romania Buy

Vodafone Romania has signed a binding agreement to acquire key assets of Telekom Romania Mobile Communications from Greek telecom group OTE and Deutsche Telekom, in a joint €70 million ($75M) transaction with Digi Romania.

Digi Romania is the Romanian branch of Digi Communications N.V., a publicly listed telecom group headquartered in Bucharest, with its statutory seat in the Netherlands. Founded in 1994, Digi is one of Romania’s largest telecom operators and has expanded operations across Spain, Italy, Portugal, and Belgium.

Deal Breakdown

• Vodafone’s Share: €30 million (~$32M) for postpaid customers, retail network, business clients, and infrastructure.
• Digi’s Share: €40 million (~$43M) for prepaid services, spectrum licenses, towers, and related equipment.
• Completion Timeline: Early October 2025
• Regulatory Approval: Cleared by Romania’s Competition Council in July

Strategic Impact

• Vodafone strengthens its local footprint, adding ~2 million customers to its existing 6.3 million base.
• Romania’s mobile market consolidates to three major players: Vodafone, Digi, and Orange.
• OTE gains tax exemptions worth over €100 million and future cash flow savings.

Financial Summary

Buyer	Assets Acquired	Value
Vodafone	Postpaid customers, retail, infrastructure	€30M (~$32M)
Digi	Prepaid services, spectrum, towers	€40M (~$43M)

Executive Commentary

“This transaction strengthens our position in Romania by increasing our local scale and unlocking significant synergy benefits.” — Margherita Della Valle, CEO of Vodafone Group

TCS to Overhaul Vodafone Idea’s BSS with TwinX and HOBS in Multi-Year Digital Transformation Deal

Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) (BSE: 532540, NSE: TCS) a global leader in IT services, consulting, and business solutions, has partnered with Vodafone Idea to transform their business support system (BSS) through an AI-driven and future ready platform. The five-year engagement will help India’s leading telecom service provider unlock new capabilities in customer experience by deploying a next-gen platform focused on intelligence, automation, personalization and accelerated launch of new product and services.

The transformation will be anchored on TCS’ flagship products — TCS HOBSTM and TCS TwinXTM. TCS HOBS will provide the digital backbone for business support systems, driving agility, stability, and seamless integration across customer touchpoints. TCS TwinX will complement this with AI/ML-powered intelligence and scenario simulation, helping Vodafone Idea to enhance service responsiveness, and deliver personalized interactions. By combining the robust processes and systems of TCS HOBS along with advanced analytics capabilities of TCS TwinX, the unified platform will accelerate service delivery, ensure resilient performance, and provide flexibility to adapt quickly to evolving customer needs.

Jagbir Singh, Chief Technology Officer, Vodafone Idea Limited, said, “With this partnership Vi is embarking on a transformative journey to redefine customer experience. By modernizing our BSS platforms embedded with AI-driven innovation, we are setting a new standard to deliver, faster, smarter and more personalized digital experiences. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in our ongoing commitment to innovation, operational efficiency and delivering an unmatched experience to our customers.”

With over 25 years of expertise in supporting Communications, Media, and Information Services businesses (CMI), TCS serves CMI customers across 45 countries. Operating from more than 105 delivery locations, TCS leverages its industry and technology expertise to support over one billion telecom subscribers globally. TCS’ services encompass the entire communications value chain, including modernization, operation support system, networks, IT, and operations.

Ujjwal Mathur, President & Country Head - India Business, TCS, said, "The transformation program for Vodafone Idea is built on 15 years of relationship with TCS. A testament to our customer centricity across industries. By leveraging our advanced AI capabilities and flagship products, TCS HOBSTM and TCS TWINXTM, we are committed to transform customer engagement and operational efficiency for Vodafone Idea. This initiative marks a pivotal step in driving AI-led transformation of Vi’s core Business Support System. This collaboration underscores our dedication to delivering innovative solutions that drive growth and excellence in the telecom sector."

This partnership advances TCS’ vision of Accelerating India’s progress through solutions that are Made in India, for India—and ready for the world. With a strong focus on sustainability, security, and sovereignty, TCS aims to fuel innovation, economic growth, and global competitiveness. As India enters a new era of digital advancement, TCS remains committed to delivering indigenous solutions that empower governments, enterprises, and citizens, helping them perpetually adapt in an AI-first world.

No Mobile Towers Needed: Starlink to Bring Internet Directly to Phones

SpaceX CEO Elon Musk has announced a major technological milestone for Starlink, the company’s satellite internet division. Within the next two years, Starlink will enable standard mobile phones to connect directly to its satellite network, bypassing traditional cell towers and regional carriers.

This innovation marks a transformative leap in global connectivity, promising high-bandwidth internet access anywhere on Earth, including remote, rural, and disaster-stricken regions.

Key Highlights

• Direct-to-Cell Technology: Phones will connect directly to Starlink satellites without hardware modifications, using standard LTE protocols.
• Global Coverage: Seamless internet access across five continents, including areas currently underserved by mobile networks.
• Spectrum Acquisition: SpaceX has secured a $17 billion deal with EchoStar, acquiring 50 MHz of S-band spectrum in the U.S. and global Mobile Satellite Service licenses.
• Technical Milestone: On January 8, 2024, Starlink successfully sent and received text messages using T-Mobile spectrum via its new Direct-to-Cell satellites.

Technology Behind the Breakthrough

Starlink’s Direct-to-Cell satellites are equipped with:

• Custom silicon optimized for low-power mobile signals
• Advanced phased array antennas for precise beam steering
• Regenerative networking to support voice, video, and IoT services

These satellites orbit at 360 km, lower than competing constellations, enabling stronger and faster links to mobile devices.

The top six Direct to Cell Satellites stacked and ready for launch

Global Partnerships

Starlink has partnered with major mobile operators including:

• T-Mobile (USA)
• Optus & Telstra (Australia)
• Rogers (Canada)
• KDDI (Japan)
• Salt (Switzerland)

These alliances allow Starlink to act as a roaming partner, extending coverage into previously unreachable geographies.

Impact & Outlook

Musk stated, “You’ll be able to watch videos anywhere on your phone,” underscoring the potential to revolutionize mobile connectivity. The service is expected to roll out:

• Text messaging in 2024
• Voice, data, and IoT services by 2025

This development could disrupt legacy telecom providers and redefine how billions access the internet.

Vodafone Idea and IBM Launch AI Innovation Hub to Transform Telecom Operations and Accelerate Digital Delivery

Vodafone Idea (Vi) has made a strategic collaboration with IBM to revolutionize its telecom operations through artificial intelligence (AI) and automation. The partnership marks a significant milestone in Vi’s digital transformation journey, aimed at streamlining operations, enhancing service reliability, and accelerating the delivery of next-generation digital services.

AI Innovation Hub: The Core of the Transformation

At the heart of this initiative is the newly launched AI Innovation Hub, a joint endeavor between Vi and IBM Consulting. The Hub is designed to continuously modernize Vi’s IT and business processes by co-creating:

• AI-powered automation tools
• Digital accelerators for faster service deployment
• Advanced DevOps solutions infused with AI

The Innovation Hub will serve as a collaborative space where experts from both organizations will develop and deploy cutting-edge technologies to improve operational efficiency and customer experience.

Unified DevOps Execution Model

Vi is also implementing a unified DevOps execution model, powered by automation and AI. This model aims to:

• Accelerate software development cycles
• Improve service reliability and uptime
• Enhance agility across IT and network operations

By integrating AI into its DevOps workflows, Vi seeks to create a more responsive and resilient digital infrastructure—critical for supporting India’s rapidly evolving telecom landscape and the rollout of 5G services.

Jagbir Singh, Chief Technology Officer at Vi, emphasized the strategic importance of the partnership:

This marks a pivotal milestone in Vi’s digital journey. The AI Innovation Hub will set new benchmarks for the telecom industry and help us deliver superior customer experiences.

Juhi McClelland, Managing Partner of IBM Consulting, Asia Pacific, added:

Vi’s AI Innovation Hub is a testament to the power of co-creation. Together, we’re building a future-ready digital foundation that leverages IBM’s industry-leading AI capabilities.

Long-Term Vision

The collaboration builds on a 17-year relationship between Vi and IBM, now evolving into a managed services model focused on AI, automation, and digital resilience. The initiative aligns with broader industry trends, as telecom providers increasingly adopt AI to manage surging data volumes, optimize networks, and personalize customer engagement.

Industry Context

India’s telecom sector is undergoing rapid transformation, driven by rising data consumption, 5G deployment, and digital inclusion efforts. Strategic partnerships like Vi–IBM are expected to play a crucial role in shaping the next phase of telecom innovation.

Vodafone Idea Acquires 26% Stake in Aditya Birla Renewables SPV to Power Telecom Ops

In a strategic move to bolster its renewable energy portfolio, Vodafone Idea Limited has signed binding Purchase and Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) on August 12, 2025, to acquire a 26% equity stake in Aditya Birla Renewables SPV 3 Limited (ABRen SPV 3). The special-purpose vehicle (SPV) has been established to own and operate a captive power plant, aimed at supplying clean energy to Vodafone Idea’s telecom operations.

Transaction Highlights

• Equity Stake: 26% in ABRen SPV 3
• Investment Value: ₹1.56 crore, to be infused in tranches over six months
• SPV Incorporation: November 21, 2024
• Authorised Share Capital: ₹6.50 crore
• Paid-up Capital: ₹1 lakh (10,000 equity shares of ₹10 each)
• Turnover: Nil as of date

The agreements were executed with Aditya Birla Renewables Limited, a related party under the Companies Act, 2013. The transaction has received approvals from both the Audit Committee and the Board of Directors of Vodafone Idea.

Vodafone Idea’s investment aligns with regulatory provisions under the Electricity Act, 2003, and the Indian Electricity Rules, 2005, which mandate equity participation for captive power consumption. The move is expected to provide cost-effective and sustainable energy, reducing operational costs and carbon footprint across its telecom infrastructure.

A spokesperson from Vodafone Idea commented, “This partnership reinforces our commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency. By investing in captive renewable energy, we aim to optimize costs and contribute to India’s clean energy transition.”

The telecom sector is increasingly turning to renewable energy to meet rising power demands while adhering to ESG goals. Vodafone Idea’s latest investment reflects a broader industry trend toward green infrastructure and energy independence.

Vodafone Idea’s Enterprise Arm Doubles Down on IoT with Smart Metering for Electricity & Gas

Vodafone Idea’s enterprise division, Vi Business, is charting an ambitious course into the Internet of Things (IoT) space, with a strategic focus on smart metering solutions across electricity and gas sectors. The move aligns with India’s national push toward digital utility infrastructure and positions Vi as a key player in the evolving smart grid ecosystem.

12 Million Smart Electricity Meters in Pipeline

Vi Business plans to deploy 12 million smart electricity meters over the next three years, supporting the government’s India Smart Grid Mission and the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS). The RDSS aims to replace 250 million conventional meters with IoT-enabled prepaid smart meters by 2028, targeting improved billing efficiency and reduced power theft.

The telco’s proprietary Vi Business IoT Smart Central platform will serve as the backbone of this rollout, offering centralized control, real-time data analytics, and seamless integration with DISCOMs (distribution companies). The platform is designed to reduce Aggregate Technical & Commercial (AT&C) losses, enable remote meter control, and provide consumers with transparent, real-time energy usage insights.

Expanding Horizons: Smart Gas Metering Pilots Underway

Beyond electricity, Vi Business is piloting smart gas metering solutions for commercial applications. These pilots involve partnerships with City Gas Distributors (CGDs), Advanced Metering Infrastructure Service Providers (AMISPs), and gas meter manufacturers. The initiative leverages Narrowband IoT (NB-IoT) technology, known for its low power consumption and reliable connectivity, to ensure robust performance in gas distribution networks.

Infrastructure & Innovation Driving Scale

To support its smart metering ambitions, Vi has established a dedicated IoT lab for pre-deployment testing and certification. This facility enables faster rollouts and minimizes operational errors. The company also emphasizes telco-grade encryption and security protocols, ensuring data privacy and reliability for both utilities and end-users.

Competitive Landscape Heats Up

Vi’s foray into smart metering places it in direct competition with Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel, both of which are aggressively expanding their IoT portfolios. As India’s utility sector undergoes digital transformation, telecom operators are increasingly positioning themselves as technology enablers for infrastructure modernization.

With policy tailwinds and rising demand for intelligent utility management, Vi Business’s smart meter strategy could mark a pivotal shift in how energy and gas consumption are monitored, billed, and optimized across the country.

Vi Launches 5G Services in Sonipat

Leading telecom operator Vi announced the launch of its 5G services in Sonipat, starting today. This expansion is part of Vi’s ongoing 5G rollout across 23 cities, in its 17 priority circles, where it has acquired 5G spectrum.

Earlier, Vi introduced 5G services in major cities including Mumbai, Delhi-NCR, Bangalore, Mysuru, Chandigarh, Patna, Nagpur and Jaipur, as it continues to expand its 5G services to more customers across India.

Vi users in Sonipat with 5G-enabled devices can access Vi 5G services starting tomorrow. As an introductory offer, Vi is providing unlimited 5G data to users on plans starting from ₹299. Customers can enjoy high-definition streaming, gaming, video conferencing, faster downloads, and real-time cloud access.

Commenting on the launch, Rahul Joshi, Business Head –Punjab, Haryana, HP & JK, Vodafone Idea, said: “As we launch Vi 5G in Sonipat, we are excited to bring the future of connectivity to Haryana. With our next-gen 5G alongside our robust 4G services, we aim to provide more options and an enhanced experience to our users. We are committed to systematically expanding our 5G footprint across Haryana, in line with growing demand and 5G handset adoption.”

To ensure a superior 5G experience in Haryana, Vi has partnered with Nokia to deploy advanced, energy-efficient infrastructure and implemented AI-powered Self-Organizing Networks (SON) to automatically optimize network performance.

Since raising funds via Follow on Public Offer (FPO) last year, Vi has also significantly upgraded its 4G network in Haryana to deliver enhanced coverage, faster data speeds, and overall superior user experience. It has successfully deployed 900 MHz spectrum on 1700+ sites and doubled capacity on 1200+ sites from 5MHz to 10 MHz across key locations like Panipat, Sonipat, Bhiwani Rewari, Palwal, Jind, Sirsa, Hisar, Rohtak, Karnal, Ambala, Kurukshetra, Bahadurgarh and more. In addition, Vi has enhanced 2100 MHz spectrum capacity from 10 MHz to 15 MHz in over 1000 sites in Haryana. Vi has also installed 230+ new sites in the state. These upgrades underscore Vi’s commitment to delivering consistent and high-quality connectivity across urban and rural areas.

Vi remains committed to building a future-ready network that meets the evolving digital needs of consumers and businesses. For more details on availability, pricing, and supported devices, visit: https://www.myvi.in/5g-network

India’s New Telecom Policy (Draft) Targets 100% 4G, 90% 5G, and Global Tech Leadership by 2030

India's Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has just circulated its Draft National Telecom Policy 2025, a bold roadmap to transform the country into a global telecom powerhouse by 2030.

Key Missions of NTP-25

• Universal & Meaningful Connectivity
  • 100% 4G coverage and 90% 5G coverage by 2030
  • Fiber to all Gram Panchayats and 10 crore households
  • 1 million public Wi-Fi hotspots
  • Satellite and non-terrestrial networks for remote areas
• Fostering Innovation
  • India to be among top 10 global innovation hubs
  • 10% global share in 6G-related IPRs
  • 500 telecom-tech startups supported
  • 10 Centres of Excellence and an innovation-focused Section 8 company
• Promoting Domestic Manufacturing
  • 150% increase in domestic output
  • 50% import substitution
  • Telecom Manufacturing Zone and 30 advanced research labs
  • Indian Institute of Telecom Technology (IIT2)
• Secure & Trusted Networks
  • Quantum-resistant cryptography
  • Biometric-based user verification
  • AI-powered cyber threat monitoring
  • National Telecom SafeNet infrastructure
• Ease of Living & Doing Business
  • Simplified compliance and spectrum allocation
  • Infrastructure sharing and regulatory sandboxes
  • Faster grievance redressal and composite electricity billing
• Sustainable Development
  • 30% reduction in carbon footprint
  • 30% of telecom towers powered by renewable energy
  • Integration with Indian Carbon Market and robust e-waste management

Strategic Goals by 2030

Goal	Target
GDP Contribution	Double telecom sector’s share
Investment	₹1 lakh crore annually
Jobs	1 million new jobs
Broadband	100 million homes
R&D	Double public/private spending
Export	Double telecom product exports

Global Vision

• Become a global exporter of telecom technologies
• Shape international standards
• Deploy Indian telecom solutions in at least 10 countries
• Lead under the banner “Bharat – A Telecom Product Nation”

Inside Cisco’s 70% Play in BharatNet—Where Local Meets Global Networking

Cisco has carved out a pivotal role in India’s ambitious BharatNet Phase III project, driving connectivity to 650,000 villages while showcasing how global technology can thrive on local manufacturing. With nearly 70% of the BharatNet infrastructure built using routers manufactured in India, Cisco is delivering not just network speed—but strategic depth.

Daisy Chittilapilly, President (India & SAARC), Cisco, recently announced that it has taken a leading role in India's BharatNet Phase III initiative, deploying nearly 70% of the network infrastructure using locally designed and manufactured routers. This move not only supports India's Digital India vision but also aligns with Cisco's global sustainability and export strategy.

Local Manufacturing, Global Vision

Cisco’s Chennai production facility, developed in partnership with Flex, has emerged as a cornerstone of India's digital infrastructure narrative. By meeting the government’s requirement of at least 50% local value addition on routing hardware, Cisco is powering the digital backbone with Made-in-India routers—yet maintaining the scalability and resilience expected from a global tech giant.

These routers are key components of BharatNet’s IP-MPLS ring topology architecture, designed to provide high-speed, low-latency internet in rural areas. More impressively, they’re ready for export. Cisco estimates around $1.3 billion worth of gear will be produced over two years, serving both domestic and international markets.

The Sustainability–Export Equation

Cisco’s strategy isn’t just about hitting local policy targets. It’s about crafting an intersection of economic development, sustainability, and global competitiveness. Locally manufactured routers reduce carbon footprint and supply chain dependencies, while also enabling India to emerge as a tech hardware exporter in its own right.

By integrating sustainability goals with production scalability, Cisco is turning BharatNet into more than a connectivity mission—it’s a model of green infrastructure development.

Tech That Reaches the Last Mile

With BharatNet’s last-mile delivery built around Wi-Fi hotspots, fiber access, and integration with 4G/5G networks, Cisco’s hardware plays a role that extends beyond the wiring. It’s the glue that binds India’s digital future—from smart villages to e-governance, telemedicine, and online education.

Where Local Meets Global: A Strategic Blueprint

Cisco’s 70% imprint on BharatNet is not merely a statistic—it’s a strategic signal. It shows how multinational firms can align with national priorities, scale local manufacturing, and still meet global sustainability and export ambitions.

As India doubles down on self-reliance in technology, Cisco’s BharatNet involvement could be a blueprint for other sectors—be it MedTech, defense electronics, or AI infrastructure.

IIT Hyderabad and WiSig Network’s 5G Innovations Attain Mainstream Paving the Way for 6G at 3GPP Meetings at Prague

• RAN #108, Prague (Jun 2025): Consortium backs India’s π/2-BPSK extension for stronger 5G coverage and to uplink-heavy apps (HD video, XR, on-device AI) while seeding 6G.
• From Lab to Global Standard: Developed at IIT Hyderabad in 2014 → National program → 3GPP 5G Rel-17 feature now used by operators and vendors worldwide.
• Team India + Global Allies: Led by Prof. Kiran Kuchi, Department of Electrical Engineering, IIT Hyderabad, with support from Qualcomm, Apple, Ericsson, Nokia, Samsung, MediaTek, DOCOMO, AT&T, Reliance Jio, Thales, and others—backed by DoT, MeitY, DST, and TSDSI.
• Next Stop 6G: IITH & WiSig are already advancing OTFDM and Structural MIMO tech in the new 6G Study Item to power future networks and devices.

At 3GPP TSG RAN #108 in Prague, a global  consortium proposed extending India’s π/2-BPSK uplink waveform to further strengthen 5G coverage and unlock uplink-intensive services—such as high-definition video, immersive XR, and on-device AI—while paving the way for 6G.

Originating in 2014 at IIT Hyderabad as a single-institute effort, the waveform progressed into a national program with leading industry and academic partners, became a 3GPP Release 17 standard, and is now a mainstream 5G feature adopted by operators and vendors worldwide.

Prof. Kiran Kuchi, Department of Electrical Engineering, IIT Hyderabad, the driving force behind this success and founder of IIT Hyderabad spin-out WiSig Networks, remarked, “India’s coverage-enhancement technology—created with fellow Indian institutes and global collaborators including Qualcomm, Apple, Ericsson, Nokia, Samsung, MediaTek, DOCOMO, AT&T, Reliance Jio, Thales, and others—has become an integral part of the global standard.”

We gratefully acknowledge the efforts of various organizations of Government of India, i.e. the Department of Telecommunications (DOT), the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), the Department of Science and Technology (DST), and the Standards Development Organisation, Telecommunications Standards Development Society, India (TSDSI) for their steadfast support in this regard.

Prof. B S Murty, Director of IIT Hyderabad, added, “IIT Hyderabad is committed to breakthrough research in the field of Wireless Communications that translates into globally adopted patents and products, propelling India toward Viksit Bharat.”

As the 6G era dawns, IIT Hyderabad and WiSig Networks are already advancing technologies such as the OTFDM waveform and Structural MIMO within the newly approved 6G Study Item. Together with Indian and global partners, we will continue to imagine, invent, and deliver the next generation of communication technologies, networks, and devices.

About IIT Hyderabad:

IITH, established in 2008, has reached a respectable position in Academics, Research, Technology development and Startups in a short span of 16 years. In the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF), IITH has bagged at 3rd in Innovation and 8th among Engineering institutes in the last two consecutive years, while it has maintained its rank within top 10 Engineering Institutes ever since NIRF was launched. IITH has been striving for excellence with a motto of "Inventing & Innovating in Technology for Humanity (IITH)".

With 325 full-time Faculty and 5,300+ Students (PG+PhD students accounting for about 60%), IITH has a strong research focus with ~ 4630 Projects worth of Rs. 1510+ Cr of R&D funding (Rs. 335+ Cr funding in 2024-25, i.e., Rs. 1+ Cr per faculty), 11,680+ Publications, 2,15,000+ Citations, 510+ Patents (210+ Patents in 2024 and a commitment to “Patent a Day: Mission 365” for 2025 to earn 365 Patents by the end of 2025), and about 260+ Startups (that have generated 1100+ jobs with a revenue of Rs. 1500+ Cr).

About WiSig Networks Private Limited:

WiSig Networks, a Startup incubated at IITH, is a leading provider of wireless communications solutions, specialising in cutting-edge technologies such as Massive MIMO, 5G ORAN, NB-IoT SOC solutions, Open RAN and advanced 5G/6G technologies, played a crucial role in the integration and seamless operation of equipment throughout the trials. IIT Hyderabad's extensive indoor and outdoor facilities provided an optimal environment for comprehensive real-world wireless testing. With a commitment to innovation and excellence, WiSig is dedicated to shaping the future of Wireless connectivity. www.wisig.com

Vodafone Idea Launches 5G Commercial Service in Bengaluru with Samsung’s Versatile Solutions

Leading telecom operator Vodafone Idea (Vi) today announced the commercial launch of 5G services by partnering with Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. (Samsung) in Bengaluru region, one of the key telecom markets in India and a global IT hub known as the "Silicon Valley of India". Since 2024, the companies have been working together to deploy a new generation, 5G network and modernize Vi's legacy 2G and 4G networks with Samsung's industry-leading solutions in major telecom circles of India including Bihar, Karnataka and Punjab1.

As part of this collaboration, Vi had already launched 5G commercial services in Chandigarh and Patna in April 2025. Vi has successfully deployed Samsung’s small form-factor, energy-efficient and high transmit power radios for enabling a seamless 5G experience across all the three circles. These solutions offer increased cell capacity and energy savings features to deliver better consumer experience with greener and more sustainable approaches for Vi's customers.

For this deployment, Samsung provided its wide range of radios supporting diverse spectrum bands, including 32T32R Massive MIMO radios, along with Radio Access Network (RAN) solutions that encompass baseband and software functions known as the virtualized Central Unit (vCU).

The companies have also implemented the nation's first virtualized Base Station Controller (vBSC), a key network element for 2G services, thereby modernizing its network with cutting-edge software solutions while still ensuring legacy technology and services are supported.

Virtualization of network functionalities enable Vi to streamline network deployment and facilitate easier management, which results in greater efficiency, lower operational costs, better resource allocation control, and increased customer satisfaction. With this virtualization adoption, operators can build software-based and flexible networks more easily, gaining a competitive edge in bringing future networks.

Jagbir Singh, Chief Technology Officer, Vodafone Idea said: “The launch of Vi’s 5G services in Bengaluru as well as Chandigarh and Patna, marks a key step in introducing Samsung as a new partner in our ecosystem and towards delivering seamless, highly reliable next-generation services to our customers. By partnering with Samsung, our endeavor is to offer the best customer experience and provide our customers with enhanced mobile broadband throughputs and high capacity required in today’s digitally connected world.”

Woojune Kim, President and Head of Networks Business at Samsung Electronics said: “India, especially Bengaluru, stands at the forefront of the global digital transformation, and we are proud to accompany Vi’s innovative journey in delivering next-generation connectivity to its customers in one of the world's most dynamic and advanced IT markets. Samsung always thinks a step ahead, anticipating future needs of mobile operators. Through this collaboration, Samsung is fully committed in supporting Vi to satisfy the demands of mobile users and boost enterprise growth with our innovative spirits."

About Vodafone Idea

Vodafone Idea Limited is an Aditya Birla Group and Vodafone Group partnership. It is amongst India’s leading telecom service providers. The company holds a large spectrum portfolio including mid band 5G spectrum in 17 circles and mmWave spectrum in 16 circles. The Company provides Voice and Data services across 2G, 4G and 5G platforms and is expanding 5G services across 17 circles. To support the growing demand for data and voice, the Company is committed to delivering delightful customer experiences and contributing towards creating a truly ‘Digital India’ by enabling millions of citizens to connect and build a better tomorrow. The Company is developing infrastructure to introduce newer and smarter technologies, making both retail and enterprise customers future ready with innovative offerings, conveniently accessible through an ecosystem of digital channels as well as extensive on-ground presence. The Company’s equity shares are listed on National Stock Exchange (NSE) and the BSE in India.

India Moves Toward Ultra-Secure Telecom: C-DOT & Synergy To Develop Drone-based Secure Communication

Big move for India's quantum-secure communication! The Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT), the premier telecom R&D institution under the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Government of India, has recently announced partnership with Synergy Quantum India to develop drone-based Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) systems.

Drone-based Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) is a cutting-edge method for securely transmitting encryption keys using quantum mechanics, but with the added mobility of drones.

This collaboration aims to enhance secure telecom infrastructure using the BB84 protocol with polarization encoding, targeting Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 6 or higher.

Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 6 refers to a stage in technology development where a system or prototype has been validated in a relevant environment. This means it has moved beyond basic lab testing and is being tested in conditions that closely resemble real-world applications.

How It Works:

The drone based quantum communication system consists of a drone (left) that generates entangled photon pairs and distributes them to ground stations. From each pair, one photon (purple beam) goes directly to the ground, while the other (pink beam) is relayed through the second drone (right).
[Image - TheQuantumInsider.com] 

1. Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) ensures secure communication by using quantum properties to generate encryption keys that cannot be intercepted without detection.
2. Drones act as mobile quantum communication nodes, enabling secure key exchange over long distances, even in areas lacking traditional telecom infrastructure.

The system typically employs the BB84 protocol with polarization encoding, making it resistant to eavesdropping.

Why It Matters:

• Defense & Security: Enables encrypted communication for military and government operations.
• Emergency Response: Provides secure data transmission in disaster zones.
• Mobile Networks: Expands quantum-secure communication beyond fixed fiber-optic setups.

As part of the collaboration, C-DOT and Synergy Quantum will jointly pursue the development of quantum communications technologies optimized for drone-based deployment. The partnership will also include co-creation of research proposals for national and international grant applications and dissemination of outcomes through scholarly publications, white papers, and other platforms.

Key representatives from both organizations may also engage in delivering expert talks, short courses, and organizing symposia, conferences, and meetings on timely research themes.

The initiative aligns with India's Atmanirbhar Bharat vision, fostering indigenous innovation in quantum communication. The QKD systems will be optimized for drone-based deployment, making them valuable for defense, emergency services, and government networks.

C-DOT CEO Rajkumar Upadhyay emphasized the importance of merging public R&D with private innovation, while Synergy Quantum CEO Jay Oberoi highlighted India's potential to lead in drone-based quantum-secure communications.

This partnership could be a game-changer for secure mobile data transmission as it is expected to lay the foundation for next-generation quantum-safe telecom infrastructure, revolutionizing secure data transmission for applications in defence, emergency response, critical infrastructure, and secure government communication.

Japan's Sharp Semiconductor Innovation, IIT Hyderabad and WiSig Networks Successfully Demonstrated Advanced Beyond 5G and 6G Technologies

• The initiative represents a strong partnership between Japanese and Indian institutions, blending academic research, industrial innovation, and international cooperation to advance global 6G standards.
• SSIC exhibited its advanced SDR technology at MWC25 in Barcelona, reinforcing its role as a leader in future wireless communication platforms.
• The collaboration aims to expand in the year 2026 to support advanced applications such as Fixed Wireless Access, Mission-Critical Push-to-Talk, V2X autonomous navigation, and satellite-compatible NB-IoT smart metering.
• The trials validated the interoperability of SSIC’s customizable Software-Defined Radio (SDR) SoC User Equipment with WiSig’s Open RAN base stations, confirming high-performance wireless connectivity comparable to commercial 5G systems.

Sharp Semiconductor Innovation Corporation (SSIC), The Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad (IITH) and WiSig Networks Private Limited (Startup incubated at IITH), have announced the successful completion of ground-breaking field demonstrations for advanced Beyond 5G (B5G) and 6G technologies. This collaboration signifies a major advancement toward Japan and India’s shared vision of a digitally connected future.

The joint demonstrations, conducted at IITH Campus in Hyderabad, India, validated the performance and interoperability of SSIC’s flexible Software-Defined Radio (SDR) System-on-Chip (SoC) User Equipment (UE) and WiSig Networks’ Open RAN (O-RAN) base stations. The experiments showcased the compatibility and effectiveness of advanced communication terminals developed by Sharp Semiconductor Innovation Corporation in Japan.

Leveraging SSIC’s state-of-the-art ASUKA SDR-Box, equipped with a versatile communication SoC designed to support future communications protocols, the trials confirmed high-quality wireless connectivity and performance comparable to existing commercial 5G SoCs.

Prof. Kiran Kuchi, Department of Electrical Engineering, IITH & founder of WiSig Networks (Startup incubated at IITH) and a prominent contributor to 5G and 6G global standards including 3GPP, emphasized the significance of the collaboration: "This initiative bridges academic excellence, industrial innovation, and international collaboration efforts, reinforcing the global partnership of India and Japan in next generation Wireless communications."

Toyofumi Horikawa from SSIC, who is a technical leader of development of the customizable SDR SoC, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership’s outcomes: "The results from tests and experiments carried out at the IITH campus demonstrate the immense potential of customizable SDR SoC platforms in accelerating the development of future wireless technologies. SSIC also exhibited its advanced SDR technology at the Mobile World Congress (MWC25) in Barcelona. In 2026, we plan to further expand this collaboration for advanced communication protocol testing."

Prof. B S Murty, Director of IITH, remarked, "This partnership underscores our commitment to fostering international collaboration and driving innovation in wireless communication technologies, placing IITH at the forefront of technological breakthroughs."

The partners intend to deepen their collaborative efforts by focusing on advanced use cases such as Fixed Wireless Access (FWA), Mission-Critical Push-to-Talk (MC-PTT), Autonomous navigation (V2X), and Smart metering applications leveraging NB-IoT technology compatible with Satellite communications.

This Indo-Japanese collaboration exemplifies the potential for international partnerships to shape global standards and drive innovation in next-generation Wireless communications.

India Pioneers Open-Source 5G & 6G Platform, Ushering a New Era in Telecom Innovation

India has launched a major initiative to develop a production-grade open-source platform for 5G, 5G Advanced (5G-A), and 6G networks.

This effort is backed by seed funding from the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (Meity) and is led by IISc Bengaluru's Foundation for Science Innovation and Development (FSID), IIT Delhi's Foundation for Innovation and Technology Transfer (FITT), and the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC).

The initiative is a unique approach compared to other countries, which have largely relied on proprietary solutions from major telecom vendors.

India is focusing on an open-source mobile network stack, fostering indigenous innovation and reducing reliance on proprietary solutions.

The initiative aims to create a fully open-source mobile network stack aligned with global standards such as 3GPP and Open RAN (O-RAN).

The project builds on the Indian Open-Source Platform for End-to-End 5G Network (IOS-5GN) and lays the foundation for the Indian Open-Source Platform for Mobile Communication Networks (IOS-MCN), a consortium aimed at fostering indigenous innovation across academia, industry, and startups.

A key milestone was achieved on January 31, 2025, when the consortium released IOS-MCN Agartala v0.1.0, which includes a 5G CORE, Open RAN-compliant radio access network software, and a service orchestration framework 12.

The system was successfully tested using Made-in-India ORAN-compliant radio units developed by VVDN and Lekha Wireless, achieving downlink speeds of 600-700 Mbps and latency under 10 milliseconds on commercial mobile devices.

This initiative is a significant step toward self-reliance in next-generation communication technologies, reducing reliance on proprietary solutions and fostering open, scalable, and resilient mobile communication networks.

With 961,000 base stations and 356 cities covered, China leads 5G innovation The country is heavily investing in 6G research.

India's open-source approach is distinct from the vendor-driven models seen in China, the US, and South Korea. While other nations focus on rapid deployment, India is prioritizing self-reliance, scalability, and innovation in mobile communication networks.

Govt Stake in Vodafone Idea to Rise to 48.99% As Spectrum Dues Convert to Equity

The Indian government's stake in Vodafone Idea is set to increase significantly from 22.60% to approximately 48.99%. This change comes as part of a telecom sector relief package introduced in September 2021. The government will convert outstanding spectrum auction dues worth ₹36,950 crore into equity.

Vodafone Idea will issue 3,695 crore equity shares at a face value of ₹10 each. Despite the government's increased stake, the promoters—Vodafone Plc and Aditya Birla Group—will retain operational control of the company.

The government will convert outstanding spectrum auction dues worth ₹36,950 crore into equity shares. Vodafone Idea will issue 3,695 crore equity shares at a face value of ₹10 each.

The equity conversion process will be completed within 30 days, subject to approvals from the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) and other relevant authorities.

This move is expected to provide liquidity support to Vodafone Idea, helping it manage its debts and sustain operations in a highly competitive telecom market.

The government's intervention is seen as a strategic effort to prevent market consolidation into a duopoly and maintain healthy competition in the telecom sector. This development highlights the government's proactive approach to stabilizing the telecom industry while ensuring that private players remain operationally independent.

This move aims to alleviate Vodafone Idea's financial distress and ensure its sustainability in the competitive telecom market.

This move may provide much-needed financial relief to Vodafone Idea, helping it manage its debts and spectrum dues. It could also improve investor confidence in the company's ability to sustain operations.

With the government holding a significant stake, there might be increased scrutiny and regulation, potentially influencing the competitive landscape of the telecom sector.

Despite the government's larger shareholding, operational control remains with the promoters, Vodafone Plc and Aditya Birla Group. This ensures continuity in management but raises questions about the government's role in strategic decisions.

BSNL Deploying 100,000 Fully "Made in India" 4G Towers

BSNL is currently going in process of deploying 100,000 fully indigenous 4G Towers under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. This ambitious project involves cutting-edge technology developed entirely in India, with contributions from C-DOT for core technology, Tejas Networks for telecom towers, and TCS for system integration.

The rollout is expected to be completed by June 2025, after which these towers will be upgraded to 5G. This initiative positions India as the fifth country globally to develop its own 4G telecom stack, joining the ranks of China, Finland, Sweden, and South Korea.

Additionally, BSNL has achieved a financial turnaround, posting a ₹262 crore net profit in the October-December quarter of 2024, marking its first profit in 18 years.

BSNL's indigenous 4G towers are a technological marvel, developed under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. The key technical details are as below:

• Core Technology: The towers use a fully indigenous 4G telecom stack developed by C-DOT (Centre for Development of Telematics), ensuring robust and secure operations.
• Radio Access Network (RAN): The telecom towers are provided by Tejas Networks, a leading Indian company specializing in high-performance networking products.
• System Integration: TCS (Tata Consultancy Services) handles the integration of the entire system, ensuring seamless functionality.
• Scalability: These towers are designed to be easily upgraded to 5G, making them future-ready.
• Coverage: The deployment focuses on enhancing connectivity in rural and remote areas, bridging the digital divide.
• Energy Efficiency: The towers are optimized for low power consumption, contributing to sustainable development.

This initiative not only showcases India's technological capabilities but also sets the stage for further advancements in telecom infrastructure.

This development not only strengthens India's telecom infrastructure but also underscores its growing self-reliance in technology.

Wipro Launches TelcoAI360 at Mobile World Congress 2025

Wipro Limited (NYSE: WIT, BSE: 507685, NSE: WIPRO), a leading technology services and consulting company, today launched TelcoAI360 to transform operations for telcos by leveraging AI. The AI-first Managed Services platform will empower telcos to roll out differentiated technology solutions at scale and speed, while delivering better customer experience at a fraction of the cost.

TelcoAI360 integrates Wipro’s domain expertise with AI-powered tools and solutions, enabling Communication Service Providers (CSPs) to significantly reduce operational costs by streamlining processes, automating workflows, and managing resources efficiently. Additionally, TelcoAI360 will deliver faster time to market for new products and services, boosting revenue potential. Recognizing the unique needs of telcos, the platform will be offered 'as-a-Service' with composable components that can be customised and deployed for each CSP.

Developed in collaboration with Wipro’s AI partner ecosystem and leveraging ServiceNow’s Telecommunications industry solutions suite, TelcoAI360 will provide:

• A unified platform integrating multiple telecom technologies for seamless adoption within existing architectures supporting market share growth
• Enhanced network performance through intelligent automation, real time monitoring and predictive maintenance to prevent disruptions and boost service reliability
• Integrated, AI-enabled security measures that provide real-time threat detection and fraud prevention, ensuring robust data protections
• Customizable portals that provide a seamless and branded user experience for customers while providing visibility into performance.
• Standardized APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) to facilitate seamless communication between different systems, ensuring operational efficiency and compliance with industry standards.
• Seamless interoperability with multiple cloud environments, allowing telcos the flexibility to scale their infrastructure based on demand in real time.

Comprehensive management of the entire lifecycle of products and services, from planning and design to deployment, in-life management and retirement.

Lalit Kashyap, Sector Head – Communications, Media and Networks, Wipro Limited, said, “The launch of TelcoAI360 marks a significant milestone in our commitment to empowering telcos with future-ready network management solutions. Leveraging our AI-powered platforms and deep domain expertise, we are delivering an industry-first solution that redefines telecom operations with automation, security, and AI at scale.

Rohit Batra, General Manager and Vice President for Manufacturing, Telecommunications, Media, and Technology at ServiceNow, said, "ServiceNow and Wipro have been collaborating to deliver on the shared commitment of building innovative, AI-enabled solutions that empower businesses to thrive in the digital age. Integrating ServiceNow’s Telecommunications industry solutions suite to bolster TelcoAI360, aims to break down silos across the value chain and improve decision-making with end-to-end service visibility and real-time network insights for telcos."

To learn more about TelcoAI360 please visit: https://www.wipro.com/communications/services/wipro-telcoai360/