
Vodafone-Idea (Vi) has launched six new voice-only recharge plans in India, starting at Rs 179. The plans, which come after the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) directed operators to introduce such offerings, are aimed at users who do not need mobile data. Airtel had already launched similar plans.

The cheapest plan, priced at Rs 179, offers unlimited calling and 300 SMS with a 25-day validity. A Rs 185 plan provides a 28-day validity with the same benefits, while a Rs 203 plan gives 30-day validity. Two more plans, at Rs 206 and Rs 470, offer 30-day and 84-day validity respectively, with the Rs 470 plan including 900 SMS. The top plan, at Rs 1,849, offers a full 365-day validity with 3600 SMS. All plans include complimentary access to the Vi Movies & TV app.
The new plans target the segment of users who do not require mobile data, a group that telecom companies have historically bundled with data in most recharge packs. By offering only voice and SMS plans, Vi is responding to TRAI’s recent directive asking operators to launch such options. The plans range from a 25-day validity at Rs 179 to a full-year pack at Rs 1,849, giving price-sensitive customers more flexibility. However, the article does not detail how Vi’s pricing compares with Airtel’s similar offerings, nor does it specify the exact SMS benefits or any data add-on possibilities. The key open question is whether these plans will attract enough subscribers to help Vi improve its average revenue per user (ARPU) and financial health.
Source: aajtak.in
This brief was synthesised by AI from the source linked above. Methodology and corrections.