Reliance Jio is set to launch the Jio AirFiber service for Wi-Fi at home and office “in the next few months”, said Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) President Kiran Thomas.
The company had said that it would be bringing a new 5G FWA (fixed-wireless access) device for the users called Jio AirFiber.
Thomas said he is “confident” that Jio AirFiber will “accelerate the company’s connected homes strategy.”
What is AirFiber?
Jio AirFiber is a compact device and would be able to deliver Wi-Fi connectivity in an area of 1000 square feet on a single floor.
It uses fixed wireless broadband technology to deliver the same high speed and service of traditional broadband, without wires.
It makes use of True 5G to provide speed, capacity and indoor coverage due to differentiated spectrum holding.
The device
AirFiber can potentially challenge fixed-line internet service providers such as Airtel, BSNL, and ACT.
The device will essentially provide a 5G hotspot at home but with greater network speed than portable routers.
Jio says, “With JioAirFiber, it will be really easy to quickly connect your home or office to Gigabit-speed Internet.”
For parents
Late last year, Jio also showcased the AirFiber in an advert
The video points out that JioFiber can be managed via an app and users can add parental control.
The app will also allow parents to block certain websites or devices on the network.
Ease of use
It offers users major convenience since they have to simply turn on the device, which looks like a hybrid of modern mesh and traditional routers in a white finish.
Since the AirFiber is a “wireless” solution, users do not need a technician to set up the router, unlike traditional routers.
Speed
The device will essentially provide a 5G hotspot at home, though the strength of the network might be much stronger than portable routers.
The ad shows 5G speeds of up to 1.5Gbps, which Jio promises on the cellular 5G network as well.
Versus Airtel
Because the device utilises the Jio 5G solution, the company is boasting its true-5G technology, which is built on SA (standalone) technology.
On the other hand, Airtel utilises NSA technology (non-standalone), which upgrades the existing 4G connectivity.
Challenges and potential
Jio AirFiber could be a major hit in the Indian market which has always favored wireless technology over wired tech.
For instance, wireless phones (feature phones and smartphones) have been highly popular in the country over traditional wired landlines.
AirFiber removes the hassle of getting a long ethernet cable.
However, the company may find it a challenge to maintain consistent speed and connectivity.
Prices
Jio officially sells portable routers (JioFi M2s) for Rs 2,800, while its Mesh Extender costs Rs 2,499.
The JioExtender6 Mesh Wi-Fi System costs Rs 9,999.
The new wireless router is expected to cost Rs 10,000 since the company manufactures electronics at highly affordable prices for the Indian masses.
