Vodafone Idea (Vi) has officially launched its 5G services in Mumbai, offering unlimited 5G data for subscribers on plans starting at ₹299. The telecom operator has collaborated with Nokia to implement the latest generation equipment for its network infrastructure.
Shares of Vodafone Idea Limited were trading at ₹7.47, down by ₹0.37 or 5.21 per cent on the NSE at 1.55 pm today.
The company is utilizing AI-based Self-Organizing Networks technology to continuously optimize network performance. Vi’s CTO Jagbir Singh emphasized the focus on introducing 5G in a meaningful way with substantial technology investments.
This rollout comes on the heels of Vi’s recent fundraising initiatives, which have amassed approximately ₹26,000 crore. This includes India’s largest FPO of ₹18,000 crore and promoter contribution of Rs. 4,000 crore. The company is planning capital expenditure of ₹50,000-55,000 crore over three years to enhance its 4G coverage to about 90 per cent of India’s population and introduce 5G in key markets.
Vi currently holds mid-band 5G spectrum in 17 circles and mmWave 5G spectrum in 16 circles across India. The company has outlined its intentions to gradually expand its 5G footprint across the country in various phases.