24 Apr 2024
Total data traffic on Jio’s network reached 40.9 exabytes against China Mobile’s 38 exabytes between January and March 2024.
Reliance Jio now boasts the world’s largest 5G subscriber base, a staggering 108 million, which accounts for up to 28% of its total wireless data traffic. Last financial year, Jio's subscriber base grew from 449 to 482 million, with each user consuming an average of 28.7 GB per month. The demand for AirFiber was also robust, spanning across 5,900 towns.
However, its average revenue per user (ARPU) remained stagnant for three quarters and ended the year at ₹182 due to affordable JioBharat plans and promotional unlimited 5G plans. Jio offers 30% of its network coverage for free to 5G subscribers.
In comparison, Bharti Airtel’s user base grew from 339 to 350 million, and ARPU reached ₹211 from ₹200, but a lower data usage of 22.5 GB. All telecom players are expected to gradually increase tariffs in FY2025 and FY2026 to monetise and earn ROI on 5G services.