Vi, formerly Vodafone Idea, is aggressively expanding its 5G network across India, with the recent launch of 5G services in Delhi-NCR. This move is a significant step in the telecom provider's strategy to cover all 17 priority circles by August 2025. The Delhi-NCR launch, which commenced on May 15, 2025, follows previous 5G activations in Mumbai, Chandigarh, and Patna.
The company aims to roll out 5G services across all 17 key priority circles where it holds spectrum by August this year. Following Delhi-NCR, cities like Bengaluru and Mysuru are slated for subsequent rollouts, with deployment efforts underway in other key markets within the remaining circles.
Vi's 5G network in Delhi-NCR utilizes a 5G Non-Standalone (NSA) architecture. This design ensures smooth interoperability between existing 4G networks and the new 5G layer. The company has also implemented AI-powered Self-Organising Network (SON) technology to optimize performance and coverage dynamically.
In Delhi NCR, Vi has partnered with Ericsson to build 5G infrastructure featuring lighter hardware and improved energy efficiency. Ericsson has also deployed Massive MIMO radios for Vi's 5G service in the capital city. In October 2024, Vi awarded Ericsson a contract to upgrade its 4G infrastructure and deploy 5G in circles that Ericsson already powers. Ericsson will also provide 4G and 5G services in the telecom circles of Delhi, Kerala, Chhattisgarh, and Rajasthan. Vi also has 4G modernization and 5G deployment deals with Nokia and Samsung.
Vi is offering unlimited 5G data to users with 5G-enabled devices on plans starting from ₹299. Subscribers can experience the Vi 5G network for streaming, gaming, video conferencing, faster downloads, and real-time cloud access. Vi 5G is currently available in Mumbai, Delhi, Patna, and Chandigarh.
In Mumbai, where Vi's 5G services are already active, the company reports that 70% of eligible users are currently experiencing 5G connectivity, and approximately 20% of the data traffic is being carried on the 5G network.
Vi's 5G rollout in 17 circles is part of a larger capital expenditure plan totaling ₹55,000 crore over three years. This move is expected to help Vodafone Idea retain subscribers amidst competition from Jio and Airtel.
