Vodafone Idea (Vi) is significantly expanding its 5G network coverage across India, launching high-speed services in 23 additional cities. This move follows the company's initial 5G rollout in five cities: Mumbai, Delhi-NCR, Bengaluru, Chandigarh, and Patna. The expansion is part of Vi's broader strategy to deploy 5G services across 17 priority telecom circles where it has acquired 5G spectrum.
The 23 new cities where Vi has commenced 5G network deployment include Ahmedabad, Agra, Aurangabad, Kozhikode, Cochin, Dehradun, Indore, Jaipur, Kolkata, Lucknow, Madurai, Malappuram, Meerut, Nagpur, Nashik, Pune, Rajkot, Sonepat, Surat, Siliguri, Trivandrum, Vadodara, and Vizag. This phased rollout aims to provide users in these cities with access to Vi's 5G services as they become available.
Vi is providing unlimited 5G data to customers on plans starting from ₹299 as an introductory offer. This initiative is designed to encourage the adoption of 5G services among users with 5G-enabled devices in the newly added cities.
In addition to expanding its 5G network, Vi is also focused on strengthening its 4G network to ensure a seamless experience for all users. The company has deployed 4G services on the 900 MHz band across approximately 65,000 sites, which has improved coverage and indoor connectivity. Vi has also rolled out more than 56,000 sites on 1800 MHz, 2100 MHz, and TDD bands, resulting in a 35% improvement in overall 4G data capacity and a 26% increase in average 4G speeds. The operator also highlighted that its 4G subscriber base had increased, rising from 77% of its user base in March 2024 to 84% currently.
To optimize network performance and energy efficiency, Vi is deploying AI-powered Self-Organising Networks (SON) and has partnered with global technology leaders Nokia, Ericsson, and Samsung. This collaboration enables seamless integration of Vi's advanced 4G and 5G infrastructure, reinforcing its focus on sustainability.
Vi's 5G launch has shown strong momentum, with over 70% of eligible users in areas where Vi 5G is live already experiencing the benefits of the next-generation network. This indicates a positive reception and growing demand for Vi's 5G services.
Jagbir Singh, Chief Technology Officer of Vi, stated, "Our 5G rollout is progressing steadily in a phased manner, and we're excited to bring next-gen connectivity to more users. At the same time, we're strengthening our 4G network to ensure a seamless experience for our users. With enhanced indoor coverage, increased capacity, and 84% population coverage with its 4G network, we remain focused on delivering superior digital experiences to Vi users".
Vi is also offering 5G postpaid plans for businesses, starting at Rs 349 per month. These plans include unlimited calls, 5G data, and SMS benefits, catering to the specific needs of business users.
Vi's expansion of its 5G network and its efforts to strengthen its 4G network demonstrate its commitment to providing enhanced connectivity and digital experiences to its customers across India.
