Posts made by Rewati Baruah

In a significant move, BSNL has reshuffled all closed prepaid plans under one umbrella. As part of this strategy, the BSNL has migrated all its closed prepaid plans to the newly launched Advance per Minute or Advance per Second plans.

This migration will come up with immediate effect across India. Regularly, the state-run telecom network BSNL introduces some new plans and at the same time closes them when they become obsolete.

As per the 43rd Amendment of Telecom Tariff Order, the BSNL has issued a new guideline stating that the closed prepaid plans will hereby migrate to the Advance Per Minute or Advance Per Second.

BSNL Validity Minimum Recharge:

To the unaware, Advance Per Second ₹95 and Advance Per Minute ₹94 are the best and cheap plans to extend the validity of your BSNL SIM. Though there is ₹74 per second plan recharge, it has a validity of 60 days.

On the other hand, both the Advance Per Second ₹95 and Advance Per Minute ₹94 plans come with a validity of 90 days.

Within this 90-day validity period, the BSNL offers 3GB free data and 100 minutes free voice calls. These freebies are valid across India including home LSA and National roaming covering Mumbai and Delhi. The free PRBT default tune is complimentary but limited to 60 days.

Advance Per Second ₹95 Vs Advance Per Minute ₹94

The only difference between Advance Per Second ₹95 and Advance Per Minute ₹94 recharge is the pulse rate. The billed pulse rate is 1 second and 1 minute respectively.

If the BSNL subscriber is having the number as a secondary SIM or only for giving a missed call or just for the sake of incoming calls, then Advance Per Second ₹95 is the best recharge available.

How to Check BSNL Active Plan?

Currently, you can check the BSNL active prepaid plan on using 3 different methods.

1. Through USSD code. Just dial *123#. The BSNL will send you an instant message that displays the following information:

• Balance:
• Expiry:
• Status:
• GP1:
• GP2:
• Plan:

2. Through My BSNL App on a smartphone. Just download the app from Play Store. Open the installed app and click on prepaid info. By entering you’re your number, you get an OTP. After confirmation, you can check all your details regarding the prepaid BSNL number.

3. Through BSNL My Portal. By signing-in on the BSNL website, you get all the comprehensive details including the validity of your BSNL SIM.

If your BSNL prepaid plan is still active then don’t worry. If the plan is not listed there, then it will be automatically migrated to the Advance Per Second ₹95 or Advance Per Minute ₹94.

Just remember, if your plan was on the per-second pulse rate, then it will be migrated to Advance Per Second ₹95. Or else, it will be with Advance Per Minute ₹94 (minute as the pulse).

Hope this clarifies the new plans.

Also Read: BSNL Prepaid Recharge Plans for Validity Extension (Updated 2020)

Realme has recently launched the successor to its Realme 6 series. The new 7 series comprises of 2 handsets – Realme 7 and Realme 7 Pro. Though the company boasts big upgrades lets check them in reality.

Both the handsets look stunning in terms of aesthetics (Mirror White and Mirror Blue colour variants). However, the premium model looks sleek and slim. You can’t go wrong with its killer looks.

Realme 7 Vs Realme 7 Pro Specs:

The Realme 7 packs a 6.5-inch display with 2400x1080 pixels screen resolution. The Realme 7 Pro comes with Super AMOLED display with a screen-to-body ratio of 90.8 per cent. Both of them have Gorilla Glass 3 protection.

Now comes the super decider, processor! The Realme7 is powered by MediaTek Helio G95 SoC whereas its PRO version is backed by Qualcomm Snapdragon 720G processor. Both the processors have paired up 8GB RAM and 128GB internal storage.

Realme 7 Vs Realme 7 Pro Camera:

On the optics front, both the handsets have a quad rear camera setup. It includes 64mp primary lens, 8mp ultra-wide lens, 2mp portrait lens and 2mp macro lens. They just differ in front camera setup. The Realme 7 has 16mp while the Realme 7 Pro has a 32mp selfie camera.

As usual, both the handsets have inbuilt camera features including AI scene recognition, AI Beauty, Super Night Scape etc.

Backed by a mammoth 5000mAh battery, Realme has a 30W fast charging support. It gives a full charge of 65 minutes. While the Realme 7 Pro has 4500mAh battery with 65W fast charging. Within 34 minutes, you get a full charge in Realme 7 Pro.

What’s Your Opinion?

The Realme 7 with 6GB RAM+64GB ROM is priced at ₹14.999 and the 8GB RAM+ 128GB ROM variant costs ₹16,999. Similarly, the premium Realme 7 Pro has 2 variants: 6GB RAM + 128GB ROM costs ₹19,999 and the 8GB RAM + 128GB ROM costs ₹21,999.

By going through the specifications, one could consider Realme 7 Pro. However, the competition seems to be very tough. Motorola One Fusion+ and yet to be launched Poco X3 could give a tough fight. Let’s wait for another week and find out the real winner in this 15K-20K price segment.

Also Read: Realme 6 & Realme 6 Pro Offers 90Hz Refresh Rate Display

Vodafone Idea Ltd, the pan-India integrated GSM telecom operator, has added 2 new plans to its prepaid segment. Interestingly, both the prepaid plans ₹109 and ₹169 has the same validity period of 20 days.

As per the official reports, both the plans are available for recharge on a pan-India basis. Earlier some plans were exclusive to certain telecom circles. In contrary, Vodafone Idea has got these prepaid plans across India.

Moreover, both Vodafone and Idea networks have got this plan in their prepaid kitty. Regarding the plan benefits, let’s take each plan and observe them closely.

Vodafone Idea ₹109 Prepaid Plan:

Coming to the Vodafone Idea ₹109 recharge, it offers unlimited local and national calling (no daily FUP limit) with a validity of 20 days. Here, the subscriber gets just 1GB data and 300 local and national SMS.

Vodafone Idea ₹169 Prepaid Plan:

The higher denomination ₹169 recharge offers truly unlimited local and national calling to all networks with a validity of 20 days. The main advantage of this ₹169 plan is its daily 1GB offering and 100 SMS per day.

That means, one gets 20GB data and 2000 SMS in its 20 days validity period. This makes a huge difference.

This is VIL’s most affordable truly unlimited prepaid recharge.

Incidentally, both the plans do not offer Vodafone PLAY and ZEE5 subscription. Don’t know why these add-ons weren’t included in both the packs.

Comparison of ₹109 and ₹169 Plans:

Vodafone Idea Prepaid	Rs 109 Plan	Rs 169 Plan
Cost	Rs 109	Rs 169
Validity	20 days	20 days
Data Benefit	1 GB	Daily 1 GB
Voice Calls	Truly Unlimited	Truly Unlimited
SMS Benefits (Local + National)	300	Daily 100

However, if you look at the cheapest recharge from Vodafone Idea (₹19); it offers both Vodafone PLAY and ZEE5 subscription. To those unaware, the ₹19 recharge offers truly unlimited voice calls and 200MB data with a validity of 2 days.

Vodafone Idea ₹1499 Prepaid 1Yr Plan:

The loyal customers who are looking at long-term validity can recharge with ₹1499 pack that offers truly unlimited calls (local and national calls to any network) for a period of 365 days. Along with the unlimited voice calls, the subscriber gets 24GB of data and 3600 local and national SMS benefit. Vodafone PLAY and ZEE5 subscription are the additional benefits.

Also Read: BSNL Adds ₹365 STV with 365 Days Validity

After releasing so many teasers, Xiaomi has finally launched Mi Smart Band 4 in the Indian market. It’s to be noted that the company has already launched the latest fitness tracker in the native country.

Starting from day one of its Chinese launch, the product has been getting rave reviews. The reason is it’s not just an updated version of the previous generation of Mi Bands. It’s a full package with a 24bit colored AMOLED full-touch display.

The retail channel Mi Home Store will stock the 4 color bands including Orange, Purple, Black, and Burgundy. Starting September 19, the latest Mi Smart Band 4 can also be grabbed online at Amazon.in and Mi.com.

Xiaomi Mi Smart Band 4 Specifications:

Xiaomi, at its Smarter Living 2020 event held in Bengaluru, launched the most popular Mi Band 4 in India. Sticking to its original design, Mi Band 4 displays a 0.95-inch AMOLED screen with 240x120 pixels resolution. This has got about 40% bigger display when compared to its previous edition Mi Band 3.

On top, there’s a protective layer of 2.5D curved tempered glass with anti-finger coating. Moreover, it is 5ATM rated making it water-resistant up to 50 meters. It is equally capable of recognizing 5 different swimming strokes namely freestyle, breaststroke, backstroke, butterfly, and mixed-style.

This is in addition to the detection of regular activities like treadmill, exercise, outdoor running, cycling, walking, pool swimming, etc.

In contrast to Band 3, this Mi Smart Band 4 has a lot of several tracking features and a heart rate sensor. The Mi Band 4 packs a microphone, Bluetooth 5.0 for wireless connectivity and a bunch of sensors including PPG all-day heart rate checking, idle alerts, capacitive proximity, calorie counter, workout completion, and sleep monitoring.

True to its name, the Mi Smart Band 4 is capable enough to show notifications like phone, alarm, SMS, WhatsApp, fitness details, weather forecast, etc. Moreover, one can control music playback functions such as increase/decrease volume, song shuffling, etc.

Powered by a 512KB RAM, 16MB ROM, and 135mAh LiPo battery, this Mi Band 4 offers battery life up to 20 days on a single charge. It’s super light and weighs just 22.1 grams despite being made of thermoplastic polyurethane material.

Also Read: Reliance Jio Extends Tariff War to Postpaid Segment with ₹199 Plan

The dream has turned out to be a reality. Within 3 years, the new entrant in the telecom sector captured the Numero uno position. You read it right. Reliance Jio has emerged as the biggest telecom network provider in India.

Mukesh Ambani-owned Reliance Industries Limited commercially launched its telecom services on 5th September 2016. Within 30 days, the Reliance Jio has acquired a mammoth 16 million subscriber base. In fact, this is a world record of itself where no other telecom company achieved this feat.

Reliance Jio – India Ka Number One Company:

As per the company data, Jio has achieved 50 million subscriber base in 83 days since its launch. On 22nd February 2017, the Jio has amassed 100 million subscribers. As per the latest financial results reported by its parent company, the subsidiary Reliance Jio has a remarkable user base of 331.3 million.

In contrast, Vodafone Idea Ltd reported an erosion in its customer base. In the March quarter of 2019-20, Vodafone Idea Ltd reported a subscriber base of 334.1 million. However, the latest financial report of Vodafone Idea Ltd revealed that its customer base has shrunk to 320 million.

Interestingly, the company released a statement that this customer churn is as a result of the introduction of service validity vouchers. Whatever may be the reason, India’s largest telecom merger turned out to be a big failure as it is continuously losing the subscriber base.

How Jio Destroyed the Largest Competitors?

On 31st August 2018, the merged entity (both the Idea and Vodafone brand combined) had more than 400 million subscribers and became the world’s second-largest telecom company. However, within a year the merged entity lost more than 80 million users.

The company lost its esteemed customers every month. The introduction of minimum recharge plan is considered to be a big hindrance for its erosion.

As per the latest figures, there are 1161.86 million wireless subscribers in India. Of them, Reliance Jio tops the telecom sector with 27.8% market share and 331.30 million active users. The Vodafone Idea Ltd combined entity drops to the second spot with 23.36% market share and 320 million active users.

Once the king of telecom sector Bharti Airtel is now content with 21.57% market share and 310.94 million users. Unfortunately, the inclusion of Tata DoCoMo subscribers didn’t give any fair advantage.

The state-owned BSNL & MTNL combine is placed last in the table with 10.28% market share and 119.43 million users.

Current Position of Wireless Operators in Indian Market:

Rank	Telecom Operator	Active Users (in million)	Market Share
1	Reliance Jio	331.30	27.80%
2	Vodafone Idea Ltd.	320.0	23.36%
3	Bharti Airtel	310.94	21.57%
4	BSNL & MTNL	119.43	10.28%

Also Read: Reliance Jio Extends Tariff War to Postpaid Segment with ₹199 Plan

After a lot of teasing, Xiaomi has finally launched Redmi 7A in the Indian market. The original Chinese variant was launched in May. And within 2 months, the Redmi Indian fans will be able to grab the new handset from Flipkart and Mi.com online stores.

Starting July 11th, the wannabe customers of Samsung Galaxy M10, Nokia 2.2 and Realme C2 will have a new handset to choose from. The Xiaomi Redmi 7A sports an HD+ display, octa-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 439 SoC, 12-megapixel Sony sensor, 4000mAh battery, 2yr warranty all at ₹5999.

This is to remind that the Chinese telecom major had branded Xiaomi Redmi 6A as “Desh ka Naya Smartphone" in the last September. Keeping up its tradition, the company has kept the affordability as the main moto while launching the successor to the popular smartphone.

Xiaomi Redmi 7A Specifications:

Regarding specifications, Xiaomi Redmi 7A sports a 5.45-inch HD+ (720x1440 pixels) display with 18:9 aspect ratio. Powered by Qualcomm’s octa-core Snapdragon 439 SoC clocked at 2Hz, the handset has 2 variants - 2GB RAM+ 16GB ROM and 2GB RAM + 32GB ROM priced ₹5,999 and ₹6,199 respectively.

As a special offer (5th Anniversary in India), the company is offering ₹200 instant discount for the same in the month of July. This means the users can grab their favourite Xiaomi Redmi 7A at just ₹5799 (16GB variant) and ₹5999 (32GB variant).

Mi A2 Camera Sensor:

On the camera front, it is equipped with a 12-megapixel Sony IMX486 camera sensor at the back. This is the same sensor that the company has used it in its higher-end smartphone Mi A2. On the front, it sports a 5-megapixel camera equipped with AI portrait mode.

Moreover, the users can also enjoy the enhanced security option through AI Face Unlock and the company promises to bring AI scene detection feature through over-the-air (OTA) update.

The handset offers dual 4G VoLTE and dedicated microSD card slot that supports 256GB. Currently, the Xiaomi has plans to offer this handset in 3 colour variants namely Matte Black, Matte Blue, and Matte Gold.

Backed by 4000mAh battery with 10W charging support, Xiaomi Redmi 7A will not disappoint you for a day and even more. One can expect Android 9 Pie based MIUI 10 out of the box.

Mi 2-Year Warranty:

With matte finish unibody, the new handset is splash proof (P2i) providing decent protection against accidental falls and spills. Moreover, the handset has got a 2-year warranty period. This is the first instance that Xiaomi has been proud of. None of the mobile manufacturers has got this unique feature for their offerings.

What’s Your Opinion?

Pretty decent specs for the price!! Surely, the handset will win the hearts of budget-handset lovers in India.

Also Read: Xiaomi Redmi Note 7S First Impressions

If one has to thank the current telecom tariff, then it could be none other than Reliance Jio. The entry of Mr Mukesh Ambani in the telecom space changed its dimensions.

With the new directions from TRAI, the telecom companies have started offering annual recharge packs to lure the subscribers. One among them is the new offering of Airtel ₹1699 annual pack.

Interestingly, Bharti Airtel has another unlimited recharge Airtel ₹169 in its kitty. The validity of this monthly recharge is 28 days. With more or less similar benefits, both the Airtel ₹1699 and Airtel ₹169 has attracted the new and old customers alike.

This article will highlight the benefits of prepaid recharge and helps you to make a better decision.

Airtel ₹1699 Annual Pack:

First, let me go with the Airtel ₹1699 annual pack. Here, you’ll get a 365-day validity period. Unlimited voice calls, 1GB data per day and 100 SMS benefits per day form the core of the annual pack. For a period of 1 complete year, just go tension-free. And enjoy the benefits to the core.

In addition to the long-term validity, the Airtel ₹1699 annual pack also offers a bunch of freebies. It includes a complimentary subscription to Airtel TV Premium, Zee5, HOOQ, Norton Mobile Security (1 yr), Airtel Cloud backup and Wynk Music subscription for free.

Airtel ₹169 Monthly Recharge:

While the monthly recharge Airtel ₹169 comes with a 28-day validity period. It offers unlimited voice calls, 1GB data and 100 SMSes per day. Undoubtedly, this is the most economical unlimited pack in Airtel product line.

However, if you forget to recharge after its due date, you will lose the unlimited calling benefits. In such a scenario, the main balance would be deducted. Leaving it aside, you end up paying more than ₹329 to enjoy the same unlimited calling benefits for a complete year.

If you happen to consider this extra ₹329, then the Airtel ₹1699 annual pack would be an affordable solution. Moreover, you get a lot of freebies including a subscription to Airtel TV Premium, Zee5, HOOQ, Norton Mobile Security, Airtel Cloud backup, and Wynk music subscription.

What’s Your Opinion?

The choice seems to be simple. However, the subscriber needs to understand the future dynamics of telecom space. If you are happy with the coverage and service of Bharti Airtel then go with the annual pack or else monthly recharge would better suit the bill.

Airtel ₹1699 Annual Pack Vs Airtel ₹169 Monthly Recharge

Bharti Airtel	₹1699 Annual Pack	₹169 Monthly Recharge
Cost	₹1699	₹169
Validity Period (in days)	365	28
Voice Benefits	Unlimited Calling	Unlimited Calling
Local, STD & Roaming	Free	Free
High Speed Data	1GB/day	1GB/day
Total Data	365GB	28GB
Cost per GB data	₹4.7 per GB	₹6 per GB
SMS	100/day	100/day
FUP	No Limit	Yes
Next Recharge	Every 365 days	Every 28 days
Airtel TV Premium	Yes	No
Zee5	Yes	No
HOOQ	Yes	No
Norton Mobile Security (1 yr)	Yes	No
Airtel Cloud backup	Yes	No
Wynk Music subscription	Yes	No

HMD Global owned Nokia launched a flagship for everyone under Google’s Android One platform. Priced at ₹25999, this is undoubtedly the best offering by Nokia both in terms of functionality and practicality.

Though one cannot compare the phone to iPhone X or Samsung Galaxy S9, this premium mid-end smartphone is the best in its class. Starting from design to the battery, Nokia 7 Plus has got decent specs to be counted as the dependable smartphone.

Nokia 7 Plus Specifications:

Nokia 7 Plus has got 6-inch IPS LCD display with Full HD+ 2160x1080 pixels and 405 ppi density. Featuring a bezel-less design and Corning Gorilla Glass 3 protection, the design seems to get an inspiration from Google Pixel 2 XL. It has got a brightness value of 500 nits.

Also Read: Google Pixel 2 Vs Google Pixel 2 XL: What’s The Difference?

Powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon 660 chipset and 4GB RAM, the handset has a 64 GB internal storage space. Interestingly, Nokia has packed the best processor in this price range and scored 139,482 on the AnTuTu benchmark test.

In the camera department, Nokia 7 Plus sports a dual camera setup with 12-megapixel primary and 13-megapixel secondary telephoto lens. The photos are sharp and colorful even in low light conditions. A 16-megapixel selfie camera is another addition. To be frank, it is much better than Nokia 8’s mediocre imaging.

Backed by 3800 mAh, one can expect a decent battery juice for at least a day with normal usage. Moreover, the Quick-charge enables it to get 100 percent within 90 minutes of charging. The best thing about Nokia 7 Plus is its pure stock Android 8.1 Oreo. No third-party apps. No bloated software. Purely, an Android-One smartphone!

The Nokia 7 Plus packs a USB Type-C charging port and a mono speaker. The fingerprint scanner makes the device more secured yet responsive to easily unlock the device. Though the handset is all-premium in specifications, it doesn’t have the water and dust resistant capacity. Leaving it aside, there’s nothing to complain.

What’s Your Opinion?

Ironically, the Finnish manufacturer Nokia name still carries a lot of weight in the Indian market. With specs and stock Android experience, Nokia 7 will definitely have an upper hand over One Plus 5T, OPPO F7, and Moto X4.

Starting April 20th, the Android lovers can cherish the flagship experience at ₹25,999. Personally, I would like to grab it as I’m pretty satisfied with the review handset. Definitely, the smartphone to rely upon!

Also Read: OPPO F7 Open Sale Across All Channels at ₹21990

The state-run telecom company BSNL has launched ₹499 plan in postpaid segment. With super success of the recent ₹399 plan, BSNL is making 100% effort in gaining postpaid subscriptions.

BSNL ₹499 Postpaid Plan Tariff:

According to the official website, the new ₹499 plan offers unlimited voice calls (local, STD and roaming calls), 45GB of data and daily 100 SMS benefits in its billing cycle. On contrary to Airtel, the BSNL postpaid plans don’t come with data carry forward option. Thus, you need to use all the data within your billing cycle.

Also Read: BSNL Aadhaar Link – Easy Ways to Link Aadhaar with BSNL Mobile Number

There is no FUP limit on the usage of data or voice calls. On contrary, we find daily usage limits of 300 calls or 1GB data on plans offered by competitors. If we consider the data usage limit and affordable monthly rental, ₹499 postpaid plan is a better package.

Above all, BSNL Loot Lo Offer enables you to get up to 60% discount on all postpaid plans. If you compare the latest BSNL ₹499 postpaid plan with other telecom operators (mainly Bharti Airtel, Vodafone India, and Idea Cellular), BSNL is offering a better deal as it offers more data (extra 5GB) with the same rental.

What’s Your Opinion?

However, the incumbent telecom operators have an advantage of data rollover that’s not provided by the state-run telecom entity. Moreover, the patchy network of BSNL is a serious issue of concern.

Leaving it aside, if you have a good coverage of BSNL network in your area, then this is definitely a plan to consider. Let us know your comments on BSNL’s latest offering.

Also Read: BSNL Launches ₹99 Unlimited Plan with 26 Days Validity

The state-run and owned telecom company, BSNL, has announced an extension to its popular free Sunday calling service. The decision has been announced in view of the popular demand. As per the earlier statement, starting February 1st, the free voice calling on Sundays has been discontinued.

However, keeping in view of the public demand, the BSNL issued a public statement that the telecom operator would extend its free Sunday calling service for another 3 months. With this, the free voice calls on Sundays can be enjoyed by the subscribers of landline/combo/FTTH broadband.

The sad part is it being limited until April 30, 2018. After the said period, there would be no free Sunday calling facility and the calls would be charged. This tariff revision is applicable to both new and existing customers of BSNL.

Free Night Calling & Free Sunday Calling - A Game Changer?

Starting August 21, 2016, the BSNL has introduced free night calling and free Sunday calling facility. This has enabled free unlimited calling to any network across the country. The free night calling includes timings of 9 pm to 7 am. The BSNL has recently revised the timings and made free calling only between 10.30 pm to 6 am.

With the rise in popularity of wireless broadband, the fixed wireline broadband service players are facing the heat and thus losing its subscriber base. BSNL being the leading broadband service provider with 14.35 million customers is shedding its losses by trimming its popular free services.

What’s Your Opinion?

Till date, BSNL’s BB249 plan is considered to be the best plan across the length and breadth of the country. With the decision of stopping free Sunday calling, there might be some disrupt leading to the erosion in subscriber base.
In the latest budget, the Finance Minister Arun Jaitley announced ₹10,000 crore package for creation and expansion of telecom structure. Hope it would revive the ailing BSNL and helps to compete in 4G space.

Also Read: BSNL Offers 4Mbps Minimum Download Speed Starting May 1

Xiaomi has unveiled a flagship Android One phone for Indian users at just ₹14,999. The new Mi A1 combines the software experience designed by Google and the hardware Xiaomi with an all affordable price tag of ₹14,999 in India.

With this collaboration, Xiaomi is all set to offer Google stock Android experience. Incidentally, the flagship phone carries a tagline “Created by Xiaomi, Powered by Google.”

Xiaomi Android One – Mi A1 Specifications:

The Mi A1 has a premium design with a big display, dual camera and full metal unibody resembling the recently launched Mi Max 2 smartphone. It comes with rounded back edges for a perfect grip. Not just in terms of looks, the phone gives a premium feel in hands too.

The Mi Android One (A1) sports a 5.5-inch Full HD display with Corning Gorilla protection. It’s just over 7mm in thickness and weighs 168 grams. Powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon 625 Octa-core processor with 14nm FinEET technology, the Mi A1 packs 4GB RAM and 64GB inbuilt storage space.

Why Special Love for Snapdragon 625 SoC?

It seems the Chinese telecom company has got a special love for Snapdragon 625 chipset. This is the third handset from Xiaomi in 2017 using Qualcomm Snapdragon 625 SoC. In fact, it is highly efficient chipset resulting in smooth performance, thermal performance and great battery life. One can handle graphics intensive games like Modern Combat 5, Asphalt 8 without breaking a sweat.

Picture Perfect Dual Camera:

The Xiaomi Android One sports 12MP + 12MP dual camera set up similar to Apple iPhone 7 Plus to click perfect shots. The company claims that it has performance equivalent to a DSLR. The wide angle and 2x optical zoom Telephoto lenses camera setup makes you excel in photography.

The Mi A1is equipped with a large 1.25μm pixel that lets in at least 56% more light than typical sensors. The Xiaomi boasts that its stereoscopic imaging and deep learning algorithm delivers perfect portrait with shallow depth of field shots even in low-light conditions.

Also Read: Lenovo K8 Note with Dual Rear Camera Launched, Starting Price ₹12999

The rear camera is equipped with Beautify 3.0 and natural correction features. However, there is no mention of to Optical Image Stabilisation (OIS) support.

Improved Sound Quality:

As per the company, the new handset includes a 10-volt smart power amplifier that improves playback quality. It even protects speakers from getting damaged when at high volumes.

The company claims that it has got the Dirac HD Sound (DHS) algorithm and a standalone audio amplifier to provide more natural sound. These are enough to run headsets with impedance levels as high as 600 ohms! The Mi A1 has got dual pyrolytic graphite sheets that help to stay cool all the time irrespective of heavy visual gaming sessions.

On contrary to its budget-friendly image, the Mi Android One comes with a USB Type-C port. Incidentally, the company has customized a 380V charger for India that can withstand frequent power spikes in India.

Being an innovative company, Xiaomi has made Infra-red blaster a default one that helps the user to easily control appliances using Mi Remote app.

Stock Android Experience:

Despite its popular MIUI theme, the Xiaomi has got stock Android designed by Google that helps the user to get the latest security, apps and innovation straight from the Google’s house.

As per the collaboration, Mi A1 will get Android Oreo update by the end of 2017. Moreover, it will be one of the first handsets to get Android P.

It doesn’t have any bloated software and gives the user an ultimate experience. If you a photo PRO, you don’t need to worry about the storage of photos as Google offers unlimited photo storage. With Google Assistant, you will have a simple, smart and safe access to online experience.

Also Read: Coolpad Launches Cool Play 6 with 6GB RAM and Dual Rear Camera at ₹14999

Though a 3,080mAh battery looks small on paper, with Snapdragon 625 SoC, you can’t complain its performance. Currently, the flagship Mi A1 will be available in Black, Gold and Rose Gold colours. It’s been reported that all the variants are highly fingerprint resistant. The popular matte black colour variant has an anti-fingerprint coating.

Apart from Google Unlimited Photo storage, Airtel India will offer 200GB extra 4G on the purchase of Mi A1 handset. Regarding the availability, Mi A1will be available in 37 nations across the Asia Pacific, Europe, Middle East & Africa, and Americas.

The Xiaomi has got an exclusive partnership with Flipkart. Starting September 12th, 12 noon, the handset will be available for sale through Flipkart, Mi.com and Mi Home. Interestingly, the company has also announced that the handset will also be available offline through Mi Preferred Partners and large-chain retailers including Sangeetha, Poorvika, BigC, LOT, 3G, UniverCell, eZone, Hotspot, Croma, Pai International, myG, StoreKing, Fone4, Vijay Sales etc.

What’s Your Opinion?

Though Google’s Android One program is a failed concept, the search giant wants to codify the Android experience for low-end customers. This time Google has selected Xiaomi as it is a strong brand in the Indian market.

As per the latest figures, Xiaomi has got 17 percent of Indian smartphone market share behind Samsung’s 24 percent. Thanks to its top 2 selling smartphones Redmi Note 4 and Redmi 4!

Hope the new smartphone Mi A1 – created by Xiaomi, Powered by Google will help the search giant to establish its dream run in the Indian subcontinent.

Mumbai-headquartered consumer Electronics Company, iBall, unveiled a new tablet iBall Slide Elan 4G2. Priced at ₹13,999, this 4G VoLTE enabled tablet is backed by a massive 7000mAh battery.

Though exact date of the sale is not known yet, the company claims to make it available through all the leading stores across India. The new tablet sports some India-specific features including the support for Indian regional languages and keyboard for the same.

Also Read: Alcatel PIXI 4, An Outdated Phablet by TCL Corporation at ₹9100

iBall Slide Elan 4G2 Specifications:

This mid-budget iBall Slide Elan 4G2 sports a 10.1-inch IPS HD display (1280x800 pixels resolution). The handset runs on Android 6.0 Marshmallow operating system. It is powered by a 1.3GHz quadcore processor coupled with 2GB RAM. It has 16GB inbuilt storage space that can be further expandable up to 32GB via microSD card.

Coming to the optics, iBall Slide Elan 4G2 sports a 5-megapixel rear camera with LED flash. For selfies, it sports a 2-megapixel front camera. Moreover, the tablet is pre-loaded with a host of features including multi-angle, face detection etc.

The tablet is handy enough with just 575 grams and 10.4 mm thickness. It is pre-loaded with Word, Excel and PowerPoint apps and other entertainment related stuff. Connectivity wise, the iBall Slide Elan 4G2 supports 4G VoLTE, Wi-Fi, USB-OTG, Micro USB, Bluetooth, Hotspot etc.

iBall is known for its innovative technologies that is credited many a times the first in India. The company claims that the tablet has got 7000mAh battery with Intelligent Power Management feature that can save a lot of power in a day. Moreover, it has an additional DC pin charging slot.

Enviable Penetration:

With strong PAN-India presence, iBall Slide Elan 4G2 is ready to rock where the company has already got good reputation in the arena of mobile phones and Tablet PCs.

Also Read: Lenovo Moto G5 Plus in India Starting at ₹14999 on Flipkart

Idea Cellular, India’s third-largest telecom network launched its 4G services in Guwahati. As per the data, Idea Cellular is now providing 4G services in 9 major towns of Assam.

Idea Cellular Accelerating Telecom Coverage in North East:

By making its impact on the largest city of Assam and Northeastern India, Idea Cellular is proving that its action plans will not suffer from the proposed merger of Vodafone India and Idea Cellular. Currently, Idea Cellular 4G services are available in 9 towns of Assam including Bongaigaon, Guwahati, Jorhat, Lumding, Nagaon, and Tezpur. By June 2017, the company is expecting to increase its 4G coverage to 13 key towns in Assam.

Also Read: Idea Cellular ₹348 Plan Offers Unlimited Calls, 1GB Data Per Day

Realising the biodiversity significance of North-eastern India, Idea Cellular is aiming to roll out 4G services in 55 towns of North East covering a population of 2.6 million in the North East region. Starting with Itanagar, Idea Cellular 4G is now live in all the six state capitals of North East including Agartala, Aizwal, Imphal, Kohima and Shillong.

Addressing the launch of 4G services, Mr Rajat Mukarji, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer and Mr Pradip Chanda, Circle Head, Assam & NESA, Idea Cellular, said:

“Happy to launch our world-class, high-speed 4G services for Idea customers in Assam catering to their ever-growing infotainment needs. The idea has consistently invested in the expansion of the network to become a pan-India wireless broadband operator, readying our 200 million customers for the Digital era. Over the last one year, Idea has more than doubled its mobile broadband network on the 4G/3G platform, which now covers over 50 percent of India’s population".

Also Read: Airtel Completes PAN-India 4G Footprint with 4G Services in Assam

Vodafone-Idea Merger: India’s Largest Telecom Operator:

Apart from 4G services, the telecom company also launched its Digital Idea suite in Assam. The Idea subscribers can now enjoy Idea Music Lounge, Idea Movie Club and Idea Game Spark services under one info app – Digital Idea. Idea Cellular also launched luring 4G packs including Hourly 4G data pack at just ₹15 that offers unlimited 4G data for 1 hour.

With over 193 million subscribers, Idea Cellular is the third largest mobile operator in India providing 2G, 3G, and 4G mobile services. The company board has approved the merger deal with Vodafone India thereby will create the largest telecom company in India both in terms of subscribers and revenue. Currently, there’s no official information about the name of the newly merged entity.

Also Read: BSNL Triple Ace STV333 Offers 3GB Data per Day for 90 Days

The country’s second-largest telecom network operator, Vodafone India, launched its SuperNet 4G services in Tawang District of Arunachal Pradesh. With a population of 50K, Tawang is the smallest district of Northeastern Indian state. Incidentally, India’s Tawang area is very sensitive that it is claimed by the People’s Republic of China after the occupation of Tibet in 1951.

Also Read: Vodafone SuperNet 4G Services Now in Agartala, Tripura

Vodafone SuperNet 4G - Every Nook and Cranny:

As per Vodafone India, Tawang district is one of the extreme challenging terrains to install its SuperNet 4G services. Though a stress point between India and China, Vodafone made Tawang as a point to prove that it is committed to expanding its 4G footprint to each and every corner of the country. After the successful roll-out of 4G services in Along, Itanagar, Pasighat, Naharlagun, Tawang, Ziro districts, Vodafone India is all set to extend its 4G footprint in other towns of Arunachal Pradesh.

Also Read: Airtel Rolls out 4G Network in Sikkim Using Dual Spectrum

Vodafone 4G Offers:

Along with the free 4G SIM upgrade, Vodafone India is offering 4GB of 4G data for all its subscribers in Tawang District of Arunachal Pradesh. That means every 2G or 3G Vodafone user is entitled to get 4GB of Vodafone SuperNet 4G data with 4G SIM upgrade. The Vodafone India 4G SIM cards can be accessed through any Vodafone store located in the state.

However, it is to be noted that this free benefit is valid for prepaid users for a period of 10 days only. Incidentally, the same 4GB 4G data benefit is applicable for a complete billing cycle in case of postpaid subscribers. Moreover, the Vodafone users need to have a 4G handset for availing this free benefit. One can even avail 22GB of 4G data at ₹999 apart from free access to Vodafone Play services for one month.

Also Read: BSNL to Setup 6000 Towers across Northeast to Connect 8000 Plus Villages

The country’s largest telecom network operator, Bharti Airtel, launched an Android-based set-top box tagging it as Internet Television. One can convert any television into a smart TV with its built-in content apps. To name a few, Airtel Internet TV includes Netflix, YouTube, and Chromecast for viewing your favourite content on the big screen. Airtel is in talks with Amazon and Eros Now to include Amazon Prime and Eros Movie base into the set-top box.

Airtel Internet TV - The New Innovation:

In addition to the regular TV channels, the inbuilt Netflix and YouTube will make Airtel’s new set-top box as the most preferred one. Currently, the company will target the consumers looking to enjoy content on the larger screens. The resident welfare associations, modern retail stores, consumer electronic stores would be the front-runners to grab Airtel’s new STBs.

Announcing the launch, Mr Sunil Taldar, Director – DTH Business, Bharti Airtel, said: “It provides seamless integration of viewing online and offline content on a bigger screen.” Though Bharti Airtel is the third largest company in the DTH segment in terms of customer base, stands the second largest by revenue.

Also Read: Jio to Launch DTH Service at ₹185 per Month, Yet Another Rumour

As a launch offer, this smart set-top box is priced at ₹7999 for 12 months subscription and ₹4999 for three months period. If you are an existing Airtel customer then you can own this Android set-up-box for just ₹3999 a year. That’s a smart pricing by Airtel to achieve higher revenue with content and TV channels bundled in.

Currently, the product will be sold exclusively through Amazon. However, in a few months, other online partners such as Flipkart and Snapdeal would be added apart from its exclusive offline Airtel stores. Though Bharti Airtel competes with Dish TV, Tata Sky and Videocon in this DTH business, Airtel has the distinction of having broadband as its backbone.

Broadband + Digital TV:

The Airtel Broadband user is entitled to get 25GB of high-speed broadband every month when he signs up the internet TV set-top box offered by the company makes an affordable deal. Feature-wise, Airtel Internet TV has an inbuilt Wi-Fi receiver and is integrated with Google Voice Search feature to enable its users to search content by talking into the touchscreen remote.

It being 4K content ready, Airtel Internet TV enables the user to pause, record and rewind the LIVE TV. The subscribers can even mirror content from their smartphones, tablets and laptops onto their giant TV screen. All you need to have a minimum 2Mbps broadband speed internet for a butter-smooth online experience. If you don’t have a broadband connection then you can even connect it to a 4G hotspot. In line with the regular Airtel Digital TV, an antenna would be supplied for installation.

Considering its amazing content platform and features, the Airtel Internet TV hopes to rock the DTH space.

Also Read: Reliance Jio Dhan Dhana Dhan Offer Gives 84GB Data for 84 Days at ₹309

The Norwegian telecommunications Indian subsidiary, Telenor, has come up with a special data pack where its subscribers can enjoy unlimited 4G data for a period of 60 days with 2GB as FUP limit. This new FRC 103 is the cheapest 4G data pack available in the market.

Also Read: Telenor India Offers Unlimited 4G Internet at ₹11 for One Day

Telenor India 4G Coverage:

The Telenor India which is to be acquired by Bharti Airtel is luring 4G users by offering 4G data benefits. Though a new telecom network, Telenor India has a good 4G presence in Agra, Hyderabad, Secunderabad, Varanasi, and Visakhapatnam. With this FRC 103 plan, the new subscribers can get unlimited 4G data with 60 days validity. This is to be noted that this FRC 103 recharge plan has a daily data limit of 2GB. Post the 2GB of 4G data, the speed will come down to 128 Kbps.

Apart from unlimited 4G data benefit, this FRC 103 plan also provides ₹25 talk time with a validity of 90 days. Incidentally, all the local and STD calls would be charged 25 paise per minute. One can recharge with any other rate cutter plan as it has a validity of 90 days. The new FRC ₹103 is quite affordable and beneficial as it provides both 4G data benefits and voice calling.

Also Read: BSNL Extends Validity of STV 26 Unlimited Voice Calls by 3 Months

Which is a Better Data Pack?

Though many analysts compare Telenor’s ₹103 plan with BSNL’s ₹249 and Vodafone India’s ₹249 plan, it should be noted that BSNL and Vodafone India has a PAN India coverage. Whereas Telenor India is restricted to 7 telecom circles and has a definitive agreement with Bharti Airtel to get acquired. Let us know your valuable feedback on the new FRC 103 offered by Telenor India.

Must Read: TRAI Asks Reliance to Withdraw Jio Summer Surprise Offer

Re: Xiaomi Launches Redmi Note 4 in India Starting at ₹9999

The Chinese smartphone maker Xiaomi has announced that Xiaomi Redmi Note 4 has got a new matte black colour variant. Starting today, the matte black variant of Redmi Note 4 will be available for sale on Flipkart and Mi.com portals.

Also Read: Xiaomi Adds Black and Blue Colour Variants to Redmi Note 4

Till now, Mi India has Gold and Grey colour variants for its popular Redmi Note 4 smartphone. As usual, today’s flash sale too lasted for only a few seconds. Leaving the flash sale concept, everything is working well with Xiaomi in India. The enthusiastic buyers are losing hope on their favourite RN4 phone of the year.

Redmi Note 4 Specifications:

To recap, Xiaomi Redmi Note 4 is a mid-budget class smartphone from Xiaomi. It is the successor to the most popular Redmi Note 3 smartphone of Xiaomi. There are 3 variants and the price starts at 9999 for the base model that is equipped with 2GB RAM and 32GB ROM.

Also Read: Lenovo Vibe K5 Note 4GB RAM Variant Updated with Extra 32GB Storage

The Redmi Note 4 sports a 5.5-inch full HD display with 2GHz octa-core Qualcomm Snapdragon processor. Optics wise, it has a 13-megapixel rear camera and 5-megapixel front camera for selfies. It comes with 4G VoLTE connectivity and has a stylish all-metal unibody design.

Killer USP of Redmi Note 4:

In terms of battery, Redmi Note 4 is a powerhouse with 4,100mAh battery and can last 25% longer than its previous version. The handset runs on Android 6 Marshmallow (MIUI 8) and one can expect a Nougat update for it in the near future.

For more detailed information on Redmi Note 4 and its specifications, visit our timeline.

Also Read: Record 250000 Xiaomi Redmi Note 4 Units Sold in the First Sale

Vodafone India, the second-largest telecommunication service provider, launched its SuperNet 4G services in Pune and Silchar. Incidentally, both Pune and Silchar are the second-largest cities in the Indian state of Maharashtra and Assam respectively.

Also Read: Vodafone SuperNet 4G Services Now in Nagpur

The telecom company has rolled out SuperNet 4G services in 107 towns and cities of Maharashtra and Goa. Starting with Nagpur, Vodafone India 4G is now live in Akola, Ahmednagar, Amravati, Chandrapur, Dhule, Goa, Kolhapur, Jalgaon, Latur, Malegaon, Miraj, Nanded, Nashik, Sangli, and Vasai. Similarly, Vodafone India has expanded its 4G network to Silchar of Cachar district of Assam.

Vodafone SuperNet 4G Services:

If one considers Vodafone network in Pune, it is uniquely positioned to offer 2G/3G/4G services. The same is the case with Assam’s Silchar. Vodafone India has got a strong fiber backhaul and modern network to provide the best customer experience to its subscribers. As of now, the company has invested ₹2200 crores in Assam and North East telecom circle. It has about 290 Vodafone branded stores across Assam and North East India for the convenience of its subscribers.

Also Read: Vodafone India Rolls Out SuperHour Packs in Rajasthan

With the deployment of Vodafone SuperNet 4G services, the subscribers can now enjoy high-speed mobile internet experience on a wide range of smart devices including 4G enabled smartphones, Mi-Fi, and dongles. It facilitates faster upload and download of HD videos, seamless two-way video chats, mobile gaming, and other entertaining stuff.

Vodafone Still in Business:

Addressing the launch, Mr. Ashish Chandra, Business Head – Maharashtra & Goa Circle, Vodafone India, said: “We started our 4G journey in Maharashtra from Nagpur and followed it up with launches in 107 cities and towns within a period of 3 months. Vodafone is now expanding its services across the IT, Manufacturing and Education hub of Pune and will be rolled out in other important locations by March 2017.”

The Vodafone India subscribers enjoy SuperNet 4G services by upgrading their SIM free of cost and avail 2GB of 4G data for free. Moreover, one can even avail 22GB of 4G data at just ₹999. Vodafone with its rich expertise in more than 20 countries has got international roaming on 4G for its Indian subscribers. Continuing its 4G footprint, Vodafone India is committed to extending Vodafone SuperNet 4G coverage in 2400 towns and cities across the length and breadth of the country by March 2017.

Also Read: Vodafone SuperNet 4G Now in Aizawl, Mizoram and More by March End

Bharti Airtel, country’s number one telecom network, announced that it would not charge for roaming services from April 1, 2017. It includes free incoming and outgoing calls and SMS. The company also clarified that there would be no roaming charges on mobile data as well.

Also Read: Bharti Airtel Turns Aggressive, Now Offers 4GB of 4G Data at Just ₹149

Airtel’s PAN-India Free Roaming Services:

The BIG decision will facilitate Airtel’s subscribers to carry their phone numbers across the country without worrying about roaming charges. No more bill shocks. Starting April 1, 2017, Bharti Airtel customers can roam and get connected to their near and dear ones within the country without paying any premium charges.

The most interesting thing about these free roaming charges is the inclusion of mobile data. The Airtel subscribers (both prepaid and postpaid) can enjoy home data packs even while they are in national roaming.

Announcing free roaming services, Mr. Gopal Vittal, MD & CEO (India & South Asia), Bharti Airtel, said: “This marks the death of national roaming and the whole country will now be like a local network for our customers, who will not have to think twice before making or receiving calls or using data while travelling outside their home base. Airtel has again set the benchmark in delivering best in class value backed by a great network experience.”

Also Read: Bharti Airtel to Extend V-Fiber Broadband Operations to 10 More Cities

Affordable International Roaming Packs:

Similarly, Bharti Airtel has also launched some affordable international roaming packs for all the major countries across the globe. These plans offer free incoming calls and SMS, bundled calling minutes and SMS both to India and the local nation. Depending up the need, one can avail these packs that come with a validity of 1 day, 10 days and 30 days.

This facilitates the Indian subscribers to eliminate the need to get local national SIM and avoid bill shocks while roaming in international networks. This is an automatic renewal kind of thing where the user will directly be placed when he has the sufficient daily balance.

With this, one can access mobile data and call charges at reduced prices somewhere at ₹3/MB and ₹3/minute. For example, the one-day international roaming pack will cost ₹499 in Singapore and ₹649 in the US. This daily pack includes free incoming calls and SMS, 100 India and local country outgoing minutes and 300MB data.

Truly, Bharti Airtel has removed the cost barrier in terms of national and international roaming and this BIG decision would benefit its 268 million subscribers. The free national roaming will be applicable on PAN-India basis effective from April 1st, 2017.

Free National Roaming - Reliance Jio Effect?

Incidentally, the state-run telecom company BSNL is the pioneer in making this free roaming a reality. Reliance Jio followed it by offering free voice calls across all networks with ZERO roaming charges. Now, the big step is taken by the largest telecom network operator and hope the others will take a me-too approach.

Also Read: Bharti Airtel 4G Home Wi-Fi Router Now Costs ₹2500 After Price Cut

The government-owned telecom company Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited plans to set up 6,000 towers across Northeast India in the next two years period to connect more than 8,000 villages in the region. The Union Government has got a special package for Arunachal Pradesh to develop infrastructure including telecommunication system in the Himalayan state.

Also Read: New Unlimited 3G STVs from BSNL, Exclusive for East Zone

BSNL for Better Connectivity:

In the recently concluded 2-day meeting at Guwahati, Mr. J.S. Deepak, Secretary, Department of Telecom (DoT) assured to connect more than 8000 villages in the region by expanding telecommunications in the state. He guaranteed to make more bandwidth available through VSAT till optical fibres are laid on an interim basis.

Also Read: Bharti Airtel Rolls Out 4G Services in Guwahati Using 2300MHz Band

Bring the Internet for Digital India:

As Arunachal Pradesh has got strategic importance due to its location, more emphasis would be laid out to promote tourism and Digital India. In order to fulfill the government’s vision of Digital India, the state government proposed to bring the internet to the state expeditiously.

Moreover, the Chief Secretary of Arunachal Pradesh also proposed to waive off spectrum charges for 5 years. By providing incentives to the private operators, optical connectivity can be attained by March 2018.

The Union Government should carry out the pending projects on a war footing; otherwise, there could be a delay in the implementation of GST and other e-Governance projects. The RailTel and BSNL should complete their projects in a time bound manner.

Also Read: Vodafone SuperNet 4G Services Now in Agartala, Tripura