Airtel’s 5G data booster packs
Airtel’s new booster packs are available in three tiers, priced at Rs 51, Rs 101, and Rs 151.These packs provide additional 3GB, 6GB, and 9GB of 4G data respectively, alongside unlimited 5G data. The booster packs can be activated on existing plans and will share the same validity period as the base plan. For instance, if a customer has a 56-day plan, the booster pack will also be valid for 56 days.
Airtel new data plans: Activation and benefits
Users can add these boosters to their existing plans to access unlimited 5G data, guaranteeing sufficient data for work, study, entertainment, and other activities. The introduction of these boosters aims to offer a seamless and enhanced data experience, particularly for users who rely heavily on data for their daily activities.
Airtel vs. Reliance Jio
Airtel’s launch of these booster packs closely follows Reliance Jio’s introduction of similar plans. Jio’s booster packs also provide unlimited 5G data and are similarly priced. However, Jio’s plans come with certain limitations, such as incompatibility with specific value plans. Airtel, on the other hand, has not specified any such limitations for its booster packs, potentially offering a more flexible option for users.
Impact of tariff hikes
The launch of these booster packs comes on the heels of recent tariff hikes by both Airtel and Jio, which took effect from July 3. Airtel emphasised the need for a higher Average Revenue Per User (ARPU) to maintain a sustainable business model and continue investing in network technology and spectrum. The revised unlimited voice plans saw tariffs increase from Rs 179 to Rs 199, Rs 455 to Rs 599, and Rs 1,799 to Rs 1,999. Airtel described this as a modest hike, equating to less than 70 paise per day for entry-level plans, to minimise the impact on budget-conscious consumers. Vodafone-Idea (Vi) has also increased prices for its prepaid and postpaid plans.
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