Jio Platforms Seeks US Partnership to License Broadband Technology

Jio Platforms, a subsidiary of Reliance Industries, has entered negotiations with US telecommunications firms Comcast and Charter Communications. The discussions involve licensing Jio’s unlicensed band radio (UBR) technology, with the Indian company potentially seeking equity stakes in the partners in exchange for access to its infrastructure.

Jio’s UBR technology functions by transmitting high-speed internet to buildings via rooftops or tower-mounted units, bypassing the need for traditional cable connections to individual homes. The company aims to secure between 10 and 15 global partners to expand its reach. This strategy marks a pivot toward exporting proprietary hardware and software solutions rather than constructing and operating physical networks in foreign markets.

Industry analysts note that US cable providers, including Comcast and Charter, are currently facing increased market pressure from fiber and fixed-wireless competitors. A collaboration could offer these companies a technical alternative for expanding their broadband coverage. While Jio previously engaged in talks with South Africa's MTN Group, those discussions concluded without an agreement due to valuation disagreements.

As of the most recent quarterly reports, Jio maintains a subscriber base of over 542 million users in India. The company recently completed a $3.2 billion initial public offering and continues to focus on transitioning toward a technology-led business model for international growth.