Vodafone Idea (Vi) will launch its 5G services in India, beginning in April 2025. The company has confirmed its phased rollout strategy, starting with key metropolitan cities. CEO Akshaya Moondra stated that Vi has accelerated capital expenditure deployment to expand its network. In December 2024, Vi introduced 5G connectivity in 17 circles under the Government’s Minimum Rollout Obligation, but the full commercial rollout will begin in the coming months.
Cities Receiving Vi 5G First
Vi has announced the first cities to receive 5G connectivity. The rollout will start with Delhi, Chandigarh, Bengaluru, and Patna. The company has not yet revealed additional cities, but more locations will follow as the expansion progresses.
Expected Vi 5G Speeds
Vi has already conducted multiple 5G trials across different cities. In May 2022, the company achieved a peak download speed of 5.92 Gbps during a trial in Pune. At Bengaluru’s MG Road Metro Station, the network delivered speeds of up to 1.2 Gbps. Additional trials in other cities also recorded download speeds of approximately 1 Gbps. These tests indicate that Vi’s 5G network will provide high-speed connectivity once fully operational.
Vi 5G Spectrum Details
Vodafone Idea secured a total of 50 MHz in the 3,300 MHz band across 17 circles during the 2022 spectrum auction. The company invested ₹15,137.75 crore in acquiring these bands. Reports suggest that Vi will utilize a combination of 3.5 GHz (C-band) and 1,800 MHz spectrum for the initial rollout. More details about spectrum utilization will emerge closer to the launch.
Vi 5G Plan Pricing
Vi has confirmed that its 5G plans will be cheaper than those of Jio and Airtel. Entry-level plans may cost up to 15% less than those offered by competing telecom operators. This move could trigger another price war in the Indian telecom market. Vi aims to attract customers by offering affordable 5G plans while ensuring high-speed connectivity.
Vodafone Idea’s 5G rollout marks a significant step in expanding India’s telecom infrastructure. With competitive pricing, high-speed performance, and a strategic rollout plan, Vi is positioning itself as a strong contender in the 5G market.
