What is JioAirFiber and How Does it Operate?

During the 45th annual general meeting, Reliance Jio chairman Akash Ambani unveiled JioAirFiber Home Gateway, an innovative wireless plug-and-play single-device Wi-Fi hotspot. This technology offers consumers access to fiber-like, ultra-high-speed internet connectivity in both homes and offices.

Jio demonstrated a remarkable capability of JioAirFiber: the ability for users to simultaneously watch live IPL matches with multiple camera angles in Ultra HD, with the option to dynamically switch between these angles.

Understanding AirFiber

AirFiber is built on radio-based solutions and operates wirelessly, using fixed broadband technology to deliver high-speed internet services, akin to traditional broadband providers. However, it distinguishes itself by transmitting data wirelessly, rather than through buried cables.

This technology possesses the bandwidth to swiftly connect numerous homes and offices to ultra-high-speed broadband, offering a rapid solution for high-speed internet access.

Comparing JioFiber Connection and JioAirFiber

Jio Fiber, originally introduced as Jio GigaFiber in 2018, is a fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) broadband service by Reliance Jio Infocomm. It promises speeds of up to 1 Gigabit per second and plays a pivotal role in enabling technologies like GigaTV and products in the Internet of Things (IoT) ecosystem.

On the other hand, JioAirFiber offers similar speeds to JioFiber but unlocks engaging experiences, including interactive live content, cloud gaming, immersive shopping, and more. Furthermore, JioAirFiber can connect numerous homes and offices simultaneously.

How Does JioAirFiber Work?

To establish an AirFiber connection, a small antenna is installed on a building, receiving a direct signal from one of Reliance’s nearby towers. This direct link ensures fast and reliable service through a fixed wireless connection, minimizing data interruptions commonly experienced with cellular or wired internet connections.

Jio demonstrated the ability of AirFiber to provide users with the option to watch live IPL matches in ultra HD with multiple camera angles, enhancing the viewing experience. Additionally, it enables multiplayer cloud gaming and facilitates watch parties with friends due to its ultra-low latency.

Introducing JioCloud PC

Jio also launched JioCloud PC, a thin device utilizing a pay-as-you-go model. This innovation allows consumers to access the Jio virtual PC without upfront investments or costly upgrades.

Jio anticipates that its True 5G and other services will benefit various industries, including agriculture, healthcare, and education. Users can access the power of a PC without the burden of upfront costs, paying only for the services they use.

Competition in the Market

In 2020, the government-owned Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) introduced its own AirFiber offering, Bharat Air Fiber Services, in partnership with local business partners as part of the Digital India initiative.

BSNL aimed to provide wireless connectivity up to a range of 20 kilometers from BSNL locations, particularly benefiting citizens in remote areas. Following BSNL’s initiative, Jio is the sole company to bring AirFiber features to the Indian market.