The case focuses on Reliance Jio’s efforts to introduce 5G technology in India. The adoption of 5G was projected to influence the country’s artificial intelligence, technology, healthcare, industrial systems and telecommunications sectors (The impact of 5G, World Economic Forum, 2022). At the time, Jio was the largest mobile network operator in India by adjusted gross revenue (AGR) and market share, measured by its broad customer base. Over a two-year period, the company expanded its subscriber base by transitioning approximately 100 million 2G customers to its 4G network. Jio aimed to further broaden its customer base by moving an additional 2G users onto 4G services, while simultaneously preparing to introduce 5G technology in India. Speculation surrounded issues such as spectrum availability and auction pricing (5G Spectrum Bands, India TV News, 2022). Stakeholders and analysts observed the strategies of Reliance leadership with interest, particularly regarding the technological and financial resources required for rollout. The case highlighted uncertainties related to sourcing technology, managing costs and achieving widespread acceptance of 5G. Jio’s plans for 5G represented both significant opportunities and substantial challenges for the Indian market.
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