New Delhi, December 22 – Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL), the state-run telecom operator, is set to introduce Voice over Wi-Fi (VoWi-Fi) services across India, marking a significant milestone in its service portfolio. The launch of this service will coincide with the extensive rollout of 4G connectivitytargeted to cover 1 lakh sites by June 2025.

This move positions BSNL to compete with private telecom giants such as Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtelwhich already offer PAN-India Wi-Fi calling services.

VoWi-Fi and 4G: A Natural Extension

Wi-Fi calling, also known as VoWi-Fiwill seamlessly extend BSNL’s 4G services. This technology allows users to make voice calls using Wi-Fi networks in areas with poor or no cellular coverage. BSNL has confirmed that VoLTE (Voice over LTE) services will also be activated by default for all 4G consumers, eliminating the need for manual activation via USSD codes.

Key Highlights of BSNL’s VoWi-Fi Plan:

• Nationwide Reach: Unlike Vodafone Idea’s VoWi-Fiwhich is limited to select circles, BSNL aims to make Wi-Fi calling available PAN-India.
• Enhanced Experience: VoWi-Fi ensures uninterrupted calls in zones with weak network signals, a feature that has been widely appreciated by Reliance Jio and Airtel customers.
• Device Compatibility: Almost all modern smartphones support Wi-Fi calling, making it accessible to a broad customer base.

BSNL’s Broader Vision: 4G and Beyond

BSNL has set an ambitious timeline to complete its 1 lakh 4G site rollout by June 2025. Once this is achieved, the company plans to upgrade certain sites to 5Galigning with global standards of connectivity.

Other Upcoming Services by BSNL:

• Intranet Fiber TV (IFTV): Showcased at the India Mobile Congress (IMC) 2024, BSNL’s IFTV service aims to deliver high-quality television content over fiber networks.
• Subscriber Growth: BSNL has recently added 3.6 million mobile customersfurther strengthening its market position at the expense of private telecom operators.

Competitive Landscape

Currently, only Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel offer nationwide VoWi-Fi services, while Vodafone Idea has restricted availability to select regions. BSNL’s entry into the VoWi-Fi market is expected to create a level playing field, particularly in rural and underserved areas where BSNL holds a significant presence.

The launch of Wi-Fi calling is poised to improve BSNL’s service offerings, making it a competitive alternative for customers seeking reliable and cost-effective telecom solutions.