State-run BSNL has once again attempted to create ripples across the telecom sector, by unleashing unlimited data plans, at a price point which is quote competitive with Jio, Airtel, Idea and Vodafone.
But, there are downsides as well, which includes the rage of season – free voice calls.
Will BSNL be able to inspire even further data plans by contemporary telcos? We explore..
BSNL’s New Offer: Unlimited Data Plans
For pre-paid users, BSNL is now offering unlimited data access for Rs 1099 for 30 days. There is no limit or FUP on this offer, and the plan seems really unlimited.
Once 30 days are over, the data access would be charged at 3 paise per 10 KB.
Data access on roaming is free of any additional charge.
This offer of unlimited data access for Rs 1099 is unprecedented, especially when other telcos are not offering such plans.
If we compare similar plans at the same price range, then Airtel is offering 4GB per day for 30 days, by charging Rs 999 per month; whereas Jio is offering 1 GB per day for 90 days, by paying Rs 999.
This way, Airtel is offering per GB at effective price of Rs 35.68; whereas Jio is offering the same 1 GB for Rs 11.1. On the other hand, BSNL offering unlimited GBs per day for Rs 36.33 per day. Note here, that we are comparing 84 GB for 84 days, which Jio, Airtel and Idea have already launched.
However, before we start in-depth comparison, let us check the downsides of BSNL’s Unlimited Data plan.
What BSNL Is Missing Here?
The biggest advantage is clearly missing: Unlimited voice calls.
Pre-paid users of BSNL who are opting for this unlimited data plan for Rs 1099 won’t be able to make free calls, and this is clearly a big bummer. If we speak about options, then the user can anyways make free calls via WhatsApp or Messenger, using the free Internet.
Besides, BSNL has no 4G coverage, which means that unlimited data can be only accessed via 3G network.
This is not the first time BSNL has launched unlimited data plans. Last year, ironically, in the same August month, BSNL had launched the same Rs 1099 unlimited data plans for Rs 1099, which was without any FUP. And in September last year, BSNL launched unlimited broadband plans for Rs 249 per month.
If we compare the price of per GB access, then definitely BSNL scores above Airtel and Jio; but feature wise, things are certainly lacking.
Do you think BSNL’s latest salvo will work? Do let us know by commenting right here.