Airtel launches 4G services in Bangalore

Telecom services provider Bharti Airtel has launched 4G services, offering higher internet speeds to subscribers in the city. The services were launched by chief minister DV Sadananda Gowda on Monday.

The 4G services will be available at starting prices of Rs1,999 and Rs2,999 for a 30GB pack. As part of its introductory offer, customers will be able to view 10 films online for free during the first month. Avid movie watchers can also avail unlimited streaming of movies by paying Rs 149 a month.

The 4G services will enable customers to experience much faster internet speeds, especially for uninterrupted high definition (HD) video streaming, multiple chatting, instant uploads and downloads of photos and videos.

High cost an obstacle
However, with such steep prices, it remains to be seen whether it will be a hit among customers. “The costs of the 4G packages are on the expensive side. In addition, handsets compatible with 4G are still largely unavailable in India,” an analyst said.

“iPhone is one of the only 4G enabled handsets available here, and that costs close to Rs35,000,” said Sahil Sengupta, a student.

Telecom services providers in the country had launched 3G service, nearly a year back, but did not gain much popularity among subscribers, with high handset costs being a major reason. Therefore experts feel the 4G services too may face a lukewarm response.