Airtel Launches Voice and SMS-Only Plan
Bharti Airtel is set to roll out new prepaid recharge plans that focus exclusively on voice and SMS services. This initiative follows a recent mandate from the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI). The new rules require telecom operators to offer standalone Special Tariff Vouchers (STVs) for voice and SMS. Airtel’s plans are designed for users who do not need data services. This includes feature phone users and those with dual SIM smartphones who may use a secondary SIM for calls and texts. The company is also restructuring two existing plans to comply with TRAI’s guidelines.
Airtel’s Innovative Approach to Prepaid Plans
Airtel’s introduction of voice and SMS-only recharge plans marks a significant shift in the prepaid market. The company is the first in India to offer such specialized plans. Although the new options are not yet available on Airtel’s website, they are expected to launch soon. Reports suggest that Airtel is revamping its existing prepaid plans to align with the new regulations. This move aims to cater to a segment of consumers who prioritize voice communication and messaging over data usage.
One of the plans under consideration is the Rs. 509 voucher. This plan is expected to provide unlimited voice calls and 900 free SMS messages, valid for 84 days. Previously, this plan included 6GB of data, which will now be removed. Additionally, Airtel is reportedly updating the Rs. 1,999 plan to offer unlimited voice calls and a total of 3,600 free SMS messages over a year. These changes reflect Airtel’s commitment to meet the needs of customers who prefer traditional communication methods.
Understanding the New Pricing Structure
As Airtel prepares to launch these new prepaid plans, questions remain about the pricing structure. It is unclear whether the company will maintain the same prices as the previous plans that included data or if adjustments will be made. Once users exceed the SMS limits, Airtel is expected to charge Re. 1 for local messages and Rs. 1.5 for STD messages. This pricing strategy aims to provide clarity for users who rely heavily on SMS for communication.
In addition to the core offerings, there are indications that these new prepaid plans may come with added benefits. Reports suggest that users could receive perks such as Apollo 24/7 Circle membership and free Hello Tunes. These additional features could enhance the overall value of the plans, making them more attractive to potential customers.
TRAI’s Role in Shaping Telecom Services
The introduction of Airtel’s new prepaid plans is closely tied to the recent regulatory changes by TRAI. Last month, TRAI issued the twelfth amendment to the Telecom Consumers Protection Regulations. This amendment included the mandate for telecom operators to provide standalone STVs for voice and SMS services. The decision followed an open-house discussion with industry stakeholders, addressing concerns about tariff availability, voucher validity, and the color coding of vouchers.
TRAI’s proactive approach aims to enhance consumer protection and ensure transparency in the telecom sector. By mandating these changes, the regulatory body seeks to empower users with more choices tailored to their communication needs. Airtel’s response to this mandate demonstrates its adaptability and commitment to serving diverse customer segments. As the telecom landscape evolves, consumers can expect more tailored offerings that align with their preferences.
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