Vodafone Idea Counters Jio’s Position on 2G, 3G Shutdown

Vodafone Idea (Vi) has countered Jio’s stance on the phase-out of legacy technologies, specifically 2G and 3G networks, by suggesting that the government should formulate a policy regarding the same. This response was submitted in counter comments to TRAI’s consultation paper on “Digital Transformation through the 5G Ecosystem.”

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Vi’s Counter to Jio’s Position

In its counter, Vodafone Idea, while quoting the comments of stakeholders, argued that such comments and demands are rhetorical in nature and ignore the severe impact on existing customers from a network shutdown through regulatory mandates.

Vi pointed out that 2G networks primarily serve customers with feature phones who may be unable to switch to smartphones due to the high cost of purchasing new devices. The telco also emphasised the substantial number of customers still reliant on 2G networks.

Vi pointed out that 2G networks primarily provide coverage to customers who still use feature phones and are unable to migrate to smartphones due to the cost of purchasing new handsets. The telco also emphasised the substantial number of customers still served by 2G networks.

Regarding 3G networks, Vi stated that they are being gradually phased out across different circles depending on the number of 3G-specific devices still utilising the network for accessing 3G services. Furthermore, Vi responded by stating that the market itself is determining the optimal course and timeline for the shutdown of networks based on consumer needs.