Competition for JioPhone? Airtel to launch Rs 2000 smartphone in October

As the telecom battle intensifies between the big players, Airtel is all set to take it to the next level. 

The company has been planning to take on JioPhone by launching its own low cost 4G smartphone. Bharti Airtel is already in talks with domestic handset makers and would launch the phone at Rs 2000. 

However, according to a report published in India Today, the Airtel's 4G smartphone could be launched in October.

Various media reports suggest that the Airtel smartphone could come bundled with data and voice calling benefits just like what Reliance Jio has to offer. 

The planned dual SIM 4G smartphone will sport a four inch display, dual camera, VoLTE calling and a longer battery life. The Android handset might come with 1 GB RAM.

Reliance Jio had, in July, announced that formal bookings for Jio Phone would open on August 24, while the phone itself is expected to be available from September.

According to industry estimates, six million bookings have been recorded for JioPhone, that offers free voice calls and sms for life. Unlimited data offering comes for Rs 153 per month. While the details such as the name of the handset makers that Airtel is negotiating with and the exact offers on anvil are still under the wraps, it is learnt that the Sunil Mittal company will co-promote the 4G smartphone with the manufacturers.