Reliance Jio has quietly launched three new “true unlimited upgrade” prepaid plans, aimed at providing users with more affordable access to unlimited 5G data. These booster packs, priced at Rs 51, Rs 101, and Rs 151, can be added to existing plans, making it easier for more customers to enjoy unlimited 5G services.
This move comes after a tariff hike on July 3, 2024, when Jio increased the threshold for accessing unlimited 5G data under its “Jio Welcome Offer.” Previously, any plan of Rs 239 or above qualified for unlimited 5G, but now only plans with 2GB of daily data or more are eligible. The new upgrade plans allow users with 1GB/day and 1.5GB/day plans to also benefit from unlimited 5G, broadening access to high-speed data.
Jio: Cheapest plans with unlimited 5G
The Rs 51 booster pack includes 3GB of 4G data along with unlimited 5G, provided the user has a 5G-compatible device and is in an area covered by Jio True 5G services. The Rs 101 plan offers 6GB of 4G data plus unlimited 5G, while the Rs 151 plan provides 9GB of 4G data and unlimited 5G. This tiered approach allows customers to choose a plan that fits their data needs and budget.
Jio’s changes also include a price hike for the Rs 239 prepaid plan, which now costs Rs 299 and no longer includes the unlimited 5G benefit, offering only 1.5GB of daily data. As a result, the most affordable prepaid plan with 2GB/day data and unlimited 5G now costs Rs 349. The new true unlimited upgrade plans thus provide a cost-effective alternative for those looking to maximise their data usage without significantly increasing their expenses.
Airtel: Cheapest plans with unlimited 5G
Bharti Airtel has also raised the entry barrier for accessing unlimited 5G data services following the July 3 price hike. To get unlimited 5G data, Airtel customers must now choose higher-priced plans. Similar to Jio, Airtel now offers unlimited 5G data on plans with 2GB/day or more.
Currently, Jio offers a cheaper entry-level option for unlimited 5G compared to Airtel. Airtel’s Rs 409 plan, which has a 28-day validity, includes 2.5GB/day, unlimited voice calling, and 100 SMS/day, along with access to unlimited 5G data. However, Airtel does not offer any unlimited 5G upgrade add-ons as of now.
Jio versus Airtel: Cheapest plan with unlimited 5G
In summary, for customers seeking affordable unlimited 5G plans after the recent price hikes, Reliance Jio’s new booster packs provide a more budget-friendly option compared to Bharti Airtel. Jio’s introduction of the Rs 51, Rs 101, and Rs 151 true unlimited upgrade plans helps maintain its competitive edge by offering flexible and cost-effective solutions for users aiming to benefit from unlimited 5G services. Airtel, while competitive, currently lacks the same range of affordable upgrade options, making Jio the more attractive choice for budget-conscious consumers looking for unlimited 5G data.