Ahead of launch, Jio signs pacts with RComm to increase spectrum footprint

Reliance Jio Infocomm Ltd and Reliance Communications Ltd (RComm) have announced the signing of agreements for change in spectrum allotment in 800 MHz band across 9 circles from RComm to RJIL and for sharing of spectrum in 800 MHz band across 17 circles. [caption id=“attachment_2588464” align=“alignleft” width=“380”]  Access to enhanced spectrum footprint in the 800 MHz band will complement Jio’s LTE services rollout[/caption] As part of the strategic collaboration, both the companies also intend to enter into reciprocal intra circle roaming (ICR) arrangements. Access to enhanced spectrum footprint in the 800 MHz band will complement Jio’s LTE services rollout, providing increased network coverage and superior service quality. The spectrum arrangements between Jio and Rcomm will result in network synergies, enhanced network capacity and will optimise spectrum utilisation and capex efficiencies. Both operators anticipate considerable savings in operating costs and future investment in networks. Customers of RComm will benefit from access to Jio’s world class LTE network under the reciprocal sharing and ICR agreements. The arrangements are subject to liberalisation of RComm spectrum in the 800 MHz band and obtaining requisite approvals. These agreements further strengthen the comprehensive framework of business co-operation between Jio and RComm group, following the nationwide long-term IRU agreements for inter and intra city optical fibre networks, and for sharing of telecom tower infrastructure. Jio is setting up an entire digital ecosystem that consists of pan-India high-speed data network, specially designed devices to run on this network, a wide variety of applications and services – from news, entertainment, payment, business, healthcare and education – and rich content. Jio has created a legacy-free, next-generation voice and broadband network which can be seamlessly upgraded even to 5G and beyond. It will be the only company in the world providing next generation digital services over an end-to-end all-IP network at this scale. (Disclosure: Firstpost is part of Network18 Media & Investment Limited which is owned by Reliance Industries Limited.)