Vodafone Idea (Vi) launches 5G: Vodafone Idea (Vi) has finally joined the 5G race in India with the launch of its 5G services across 17 cities. This comes after the announcement by its CEO in January 2024, stating that it would commercially launch within six to seven months. While Vi has not made any official announcement, users in several cities have confirmed the availability of 5G networks through screenshots shared online.
Vodafone Idea (Vi) launches 5G: Cities with Active 5G Services
Vi has rolled out its 5G network across 17 LSAs but so far, it’s only patchy in the concerned parts of these cities. The 5G connection is now available in few metropolitan cities such as Bengaluru, Mumbai, New Delhi, Chennai, and Kolkata. Vi will further develop its network coverage across a phase, targeting economically vibrant and populous regions.
Number of Live Service Areas by State
Here is the distribution of the coverage of Vi 5G services in the respective states: Rajasthan-Jaipur (Mansarovar Industrial Area, RIICO) Haryana-Karnal (HSIIDC, Sector-3) West Bengal-Kolkata (Sector V, Salt Lake) Kerala-Thrikkakara, Kakkanad Uttar Pradesh (East)-Lucknow (Vibhuti Khand, Gomtinagar) Uttar Pradesh (West)-Agra (Fatehabad Road) Madhya Pradesh-Indore (Electronic Complex)
- Gujarat: Ahmedabad (Makarba, Prahladnagar)
- Andhra Pradesh: Hyderabad (Ranga Reddy)
- Bihar: Patna (Anishabad Golamber)
- Maharashtra: Pune (Shivaji Nagar)
- Delhi: Okhla Industrial Area, Pragati Maidan
Technical Details of the Network
Vi operates on a 3.3GHz and 26GHz network, which is the same, ensuring fast internet with its services. Reports show that there is no 26GHz band deployed by Vi in Bihar. Otherwise, on both frequency bands, there is an improvement of its performance, such as it supports ultra-HD streaming and high-speed download activities.
Plans and Pricing for 5G
Vi offered different plans for its prepaid and postpaid customers
- Prepaid Users: They have to recharge with the ₹475 plan to avail of 5G services.
- Postpaid Users: They have to choose the REDX 1101 plan to avail of 5G connectivity.
These plans offer several benefits such as unlimited calling, data access, and entertainment subscriptions.
User Experience and Early Feedback
Early adopters have given mixed feedback. While some users report experiencing smooth 5G speeds, others have only found limited coverage. Vi continues to optimize its network so that more users can access better and stable connectivity.
Future Expansion Plans
So far, Vi has not come up with an official roadmap for the expansion of 5G nationwide. However, considering that it is now focusing on economically significant cities, the company is most likely to expand to more areas within the coming months.
Conclusion
Vodafone Idea’s 5G launch marks a crucial milestone in India’s telecom sector. As Vi accelerates its 5G expansion, users can expect improved internet speeds, enhanced connectivity, and better service reliability. This rollout places Vi alongside competitors like Jio and Airtel in India’s growing 5G market.
