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Jio Platforms, owned by Reliance Industries, is exploring technology-licensing deals with US broadband providers Comcast and Charter
Communications as part of its international expansion plans. Under the proposed arrangements, Jio could offer its wireless broadband technology
to the US companies in exchange for potential equity stakes, according to a Reuters report published on November 3.
The discussions centre on Jio's Unlicensed Band Radio (UBR) technology, which provides high-speed home internet without relying on traditional cable connections. The system uses transmitters installed on nearby towers or rooftops to send internet signals over unlicensed Wi-Fi frequencies to receivers fitted on buildings.
The technology could help broadband providers expand their networks without acquiring additional licensed mobile spectrum. For Comcast and Charter, it could offer an alternative to traditional cable infrastructure as they face increasing competition from fibre-optic and fixed wireless broadband services.
However, no agreements have been finalised. Reuters reported that the financial terms of the proposed arrangements remain unclear, and there is no confirmed timeline for a deal. Neither Comcast nor Charter has commented on the discussions.
Jio has also explored a potential arrangement with South Africa's MTN Group. However, those discussions reportedly broke down after the companies failed to reach an agreement on valuation and certain licensing issues. MTN declined to comment on the market speculation.
The proposed US discussions are part of Jio's broader strategy to expand internationally by licensing its technology to overseas telecom operators rather than building independent network infrastructure in other countries. Last week, the company said it was targeting 10 to 15 global partners for its UBR platform.
Reliance Industries has reported more than 6.5 million users on services powered by UBR technology. Separately, Jio has a domestic telecom subscriber base of more than 500 million, highlighting its strong presence in India's telecom market.
If successful, the proposed arrangements could give Jio an entry into the competitive US broadband market through technology licensing and partnerships, rather than direct infrastructure investment.
The discussions centre on Jio's Unlicensed Band Radio (UBR) technology, which provides high-speed home internet without relying on traditional cable connections. The system uses transmitters installed on nearby towers or rooftops to send internet signals over unlicensed Wi-Fi frequencies to receivers fitted on buildings.
The technology could help broadband providers expand their networks without acquiring additional licensed mobile spectrum. For Comcast and Charter, it could offer an alternative to traditional cable infrastructure as they face increasing competition from fibre-optic and fixed wireless broadband services.
However, no agreements have been finalised. Reuters reported that the financial terms of the proposed arrangements remain unclear, and there is no confirmed timeline for a deal. Neither Comcast nor Charter has commented on the discussions.
Jio has also explored a potential arrangement with South Africa's MTN Group. However, those discussions reportedly broke down after the companies failed to reach an agreement on valuation and certain licensing issues. MTN declined to comment on the market speculation.
The proposed US discussions are part of Jio's broader strategy to expand internationally by licensing its technology to overseas telecom operators rather than building independent network infrastructure in other countries. Last week, the company said it was targeting 10 to 15 global partners for its UBR platform.
Reliance Industries has reported more than 6.5 million users on services powered by UBR technology. Separately, Jio has a domestic telecom subscriber base of more than 500 million, highlighting its strong presence in India's telecom market.
If successful, the proposed arrangements could give Jio an entry into the competitive US broadband market through technology licensing and partnerships, rather than direct infrastructure investment.
