Reliance communications have recently launched its next generation Pro 3 network which is a phase 2 EVDO Rev.B network with peak download speeds of 14.7 Mbps. As an initial strategy RCom is upgrading its network in the cities of circles where it does not have 3G HSPA spectrum (RCom has 3G spectrum in 13 of the 22 telecom circles). The pro 3 network gives speeds comparable to 3G with the added indoor coverage of 800MHz airwaves. Pro 3 had gained its popularity due to the truly unlimited Rs.999 postpaid plan that reliance had launched it with. The only thing that kept pro 3 back in comparison to Docomo’s Photon max and MTS’s Mblaze Ultra was the lack of WiFi capability.
Now Rcom has launched two new products on its pro 3 network which are WiFi enabled. The WiPod is a portable personal hotspot with battery backup. This supports 1X, EVDO Rev.A and EVDO Rev.B networks with max download speed of 14.7 Mbps and upload speed of 5.4Mbps. It has a 5200mAh battery. The device functions without a SIM and is preconfigured and locked to Reliance network. The device is available with new postpaid connection for a discounted rate of Rs.2399 for the first 100 bookings and thereafter it will be available for its full price of Rs.2899. The device supports 3 monthly postpaid plans Rs.444 offering 3GB data at Rev.B speed and thereafter unlimited at 144Kbps, Rs.550 offering 5GB data in day and 5GB at night at RevB speeds and thereafter unlimited at 144Kbps and Rs.700 offering 7GB data in day and 7GB at night at Rev.B speed and thereafter unlimited at 144Kbps.
Along with the portable hotspot, RCom has also launched a wingle (WiFi enabled dongle) at a rather affordable price of Rs.999. The wingle connects to a maximum of 5 devices at a time and comes with a built-in SD card slot. This also functions on the Pro 3 network and is available for postpaid plans of Rs.444, Rs.550 and Rs.700 plus taxes. In circles where pro 3 network is not present the data card will connect to Rev.A or 1X networks whichever is available with no additional roaming charges. Both devices are available for ordering on Reliance eShop on RCom website.
Also read: Our Experience with Airtel 3G Wingle
RCom’s 800MHz spectrum in most circles expires in 2022 and it is unclear whether they will continue CDMA operations beyond that by bidding for fresh spectrum in that band.
