Bharti Airtel is working on a new entry-level budget-smartphone with features similar to Reliance Jio’s JioPhone.
Unlike JioPhone, this INR 2,500 priced device will be based on Google’s Android operating system with access to Google play store, so users can install any app of their interest. The Airtel’s smartphone will not be a network-locked phone (can be used with any GSM network) whereas the JioPhone only works with Reliance Jio network, as a matter of fact, one cannot install third-party apps like Facebook or Whatsapp as well. However, there are rumours supporting the fact that, the JioPhone will come with the miniature version of the same out of the box.
According to leaks, the device will feature a bigger screen, better battery life and high-speed processor compared to JioPhone.
Unlike JioPhone there will be no free offer instead, a user has to pay 2500 + have to make minimal recharges for the data and voice calls. For JioPhone, one has to pay INR 1500 that acts as a cautionary deposit which will be returned after the successful return of the device after three years in working condition.
However, according to Senior Analyst Navkendar Singh,
“Having good quality screen, battery, and high-speed processor at Rs 2,500 is a challenge… Also, they’re expecting feature phone users who presently spend around Rs 1,000-1,500 to spend extra money to buy a smartphone,”