Jio plans global push for UBR technology through local partnerships

Jio Platforms is looking to take its proprietary unlicensed band radio (UBR) broadband technology to international markets through partnerships with local telecom operators, adopting an asset-light model that would allow it to monetise technology developed and deployed in India without investing in building networks overseas.

In its Q2 FY27 investor presentation, the company said it intends to "monetise proprietary technology developed and deployed at scale in India in overseas markets". It described its approach as an "asset light, platform based approach", under which Jio would partner with local operators and provide technology and managed services.

The international push comes as Jio explores potential partnerships with overseas telecom and cable operators. According to a Reuters report, citing two people familiar with the discussions, Jio has held talks with US cable companies Comcast and Charter Communications over licensing its UBR technology in exchange for potential equity stakes. Reuters also reported discussions with South Africa's MTN Group, which did not progress after the two sides failed to agree on valuation and certain licensing issues.

There is no timetable for reaching an agreement with any of the parties, report said.

Jio looks to replicate domestic UBR deployment

Jio's investor presentation indicated its proprietary UBR technology as a competitive advantage, saying it enables rapid deployment and had delivered twice the net additions of its nearest competitor over the preceding three months. The company also described itself as the only operator with a UBR solution offering point-to-multipoint access.

The technology uses unlicensed Wi-Fi frequencies to deliver broadband without requiring conventional cable connections to individual homes. Transmitters mounted on nearby towers or rooftops beam internet signals to receivers installed on buildings.

Jio's domestic operations provide a reference point for its overseas ambitions. Its fixed broadband subscriber base reached 30 million in the September quarter, of which 15.1 million were AirFiber subscribers, including UBR users. The company added 7.3 million fixed broadband subscribers over the past 12 months, with AirFiber accounting for more than 75% of the additions.

Jio's presentation also identified its full-stack operations and business support systems as another area for international expansion, alongside proprietary network technology. The strategy is to use partnerships to extend these capabilities into overseas markets.

Shares of Jio Platforms Limited ended 1.36% lower at ₹1,417.90 apiece on the NSE on Tuesday. The shares have retained a gain of 4.41% over their listing day closing price of ₹1,358.