Bharti Airtel today announced the commercial rollout of its 4G services in 296 towns across India, after months of testing the high-speed service in various cities. It will continue its current practice of providing 4G data at 3G rates, with packs starting from Rs 25.
In an effort to entice potential customers, Airtel says it will give away 6 months of limitless music streaming and downloads on Wynk Music with every 4G SIM swap. This is in addition to 5 free movies per month for half a year on the new Eros Now channel created Wynk Movies app. The tool can be availed of through any carrier and will carry thousands of movies and videos.
Airtel has also introduced a range of ‘Infinity Plans’ starting from Rs 999. The packs will include unlimited voice plans, data benefits and access to Wynk Music and Movies. It further launched a new platform called Flexpage, which allows users to track and get alerts for their internet usage on a real-time basis. What’s more, they can sign up for new mobile plans instantly. Prices for 4G LTE data start from Rs 100.
The network operator has guaranteed home delivery of SIMs and postpaid connections within 4 hours, as well as instant SIM swaps in minutes. PTI reports that Airtel had been collecting data and feedback on the response to the initial trials in order to strengthen the service before is was launched officially. The network can now be accessed through smartphones, 4G hotspots and dongles.
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Airtel is currently the biggest mobile network operator in India. The commencement of commercial 4G data services by the brand puts pressure on rivals including Reliance Jio which is planning to launch the LTE service by the end of the year. Vodafone has already started 4G trials in select areas. Idea is catching up, with plans to launch it by 2016.