India’s high-speed internet battleground is heating up as Jio AirFiber enters the arena, going head-to-head with Airtel Xstream AirFiber. Launched today, Jio AirFiber is set to challenge Airtel’s offering, and here’s how the two services stack up against each other.
Jio AirFiber vs Airtel Xstream AirFiber: Jio has taken the wraps off its highly anticipated Jio AirFiber services in India. The device, initially unveiled during the Reliance Annual General Meeting in 2022, has now become a reality, marking a significant step for the telecom giant. Jio AirFiber distinguishes itself from Jio Fiber, its optical fiber-based counterpart, by providing wireless high-speed internet connectivity of up to 1000Mbps. What sets it apart is its reliance on the company’s robust 5G network infrastructure. As a plug-and-play device, it offers easy installation virtually anywhere with 5G coverage, utilizing the nearest cell towers.
However, Jio AirFiber is not the first of its kind in India. Airtel made its move earlier this year, launching Airtel Xstream AirFiber on August 7, 2023. This service also delivers high-speed internet using 5G technology, making it a direct competitor to Jio AirFiber.
Device and Availability: Airtel Xstream AirFiber comes with an in-built Wi-Fi 6 technology and can simultaneously connect up to 64 devices. Currently, it’s available in Mumbai and Delhi, with plans for expansion into multiple cities nationwide. To access Airtel Xstream AirFiber, interested customers can visit select Airtel stores in Delhi and Mumbai and opt for the service.
In contrast, Jio AirFiber is already available in several major cities, including Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Pune. While detailed device specifications for Jio AirFiber are not yet available, interested customers can book the service by calling 60008-60008 via WhatsApp, visiting Jio’s official website, or heading to their nearest Jio Store.
Plans: Airtel Xstream AirFiber offers a plan priced at Rs 799, delivering speeds of up to 100Mbps. Customers can opt for a six-month plan priced at Rs 4,435, along with a one-time refundable security deposit of Rs 2,500. However, Airtel Xstream AirFiber does not include OTT subscriptions or digital channels as part of its offering.
On the other hand, Jio AirFiber boasts an array of comprehensive plans, surpassing Airtel Xstream AirFiber. It offers blazing speeds of up to 1000Mbps and is divided into Jio AirFiber and Jio AirFiber Max. While Jio AirFiber Max services are currently limited to select locations, these plans are available in both six and twelve-month durations, with pricing ranging from Rs 599 to Rs 3,999. Jio also provides an outdoor unit installation option on rooftops or outside homes, priced at Rs 1,000. However, this installation cost is waived for those opting for an annual plan.
The battle for high-speed internet supremacy is well underway, offering Indian consumers an array of choices to suit their connectivity needs. As Jio AirFiber takes on Airtel Xstream AirFiber, customers can expect increased competition and potentially more attractive offers in the future.
