Vodafone Idea (Vi) has taken a major step toward digital transformation in India by launching 5G services in Delhi NCR, starting May 15, 2025. This marks a significant milestone in the company’s 5G journey, joining the list of cities like Mumbai, Chandigarh, and Patna, where the high-speed service is already active.

This move comes as part of Vi’s broader ambition to roll out 5G in all 17 circles for which it has acquired 5G spectrum, with the complete rollout expected by August 2025.

Unlimited Data Plans and Enhanced User Experience

Vodafone Idea’s 5G launch in Delhi NCR includes an attractive introductory offer — unlimited 5G data for users with 5G-enabled smartphones, available on plans starting from ₹299. These plans will enable users to stream HD content, enjoy real-time gaming, make buffer-free video calls, and access the cloud without latency issues.

This aligns with Vi’s strategy to enhance user engagement through next-gen connectivity, while keeping pricing competitive for the Indian market.

Technology Partnership with Ericsson and Advanced Network Deployment

For its Delhi NCR 5G infrastructure, Vi has partnered with Ericsson, a global leader in telecom equipment. The collaboration focuses on deploying a network that offers:

• Enhanced energy efficiency

• Lighter and compact hardware

• Seamless 4G-to-5G transitions via 5G Non-Standalone (NSA) architecture

The rollout also includes the use of AI-powered Self-Organising Network (SON) technology, which allows automated optimization of the network to deliver better quality and speed across devices and locations.

Nationwide Expansion by August 2025

Vi has laid out plans to extend its 5G services to all 17 priority circles where it owns spectrum, by August 2025. This is part of a comprehensive ₹55,000 crore capital expenditure plan spread over three years, aimed at building a future-ready, high-capacity telecom network.

Cities like Bengaluru and Mysuru are on the rollout roadmap, with significant progress already reported in other key urban centers.

In Mumbai, for instance, 70% of eligible users are already on Vi’s 5G network, and 20% of the total data traffic is currently being handled on 5G.

Building for Digital India's Future

Vi’s 5G rollout is not just about consumer internet speeds. It is part of a larger vision to build a robust digital ecosystem. Through its 5G investments, Vi aims to:

• Empower enterprises and industries with smart applications

• Enable cloud-based infrastructure for startups and IT service providers

• Support climate-friendly network architecture

• Deliver industry-grade solutions for sectors like healthcare, education, logistics, and manufacturing

The company believes that 5G will act as a backbone for Digital India by facilitating advanced mobile technologies, driving innovation, and connecting millions of users across the country with seamless high-speed internet.

Vi’s Unique 5G Strategy Compared to Competitors

While Airtel and Reliance Jio have had a head start in India’s 5G race, Vi’s deliberate, phased strategy focuses on network optimization and energy efficiency. Instead of rushing for widespread coverage, Vi is banking on quality over quantity, focusing on select circles with high urban demand, ensuring they are network-ready before launch.

The use of Ericsson's energy-efficient solutions, SON automation, and NSA architecture highlights a more cost-effective and technically refined approach.

Consumer Impact and Market Response

The response from the Delhi NCR market is expected to be positive, considering the high smartphone penetration and demand for faster connectivity in the region. Vi’s introductory offer at ₹299 positions it as a budget-friendly 5G option compared to peers.

Vi is also optimizing user experience across devices, ensuring backward compatibility with 4G for smooth transitions. The use of cloud-based AI analytics will further allow Vi to fine-tune services in real-time, providing personalized performance for each user.

Challenges and Opportunities Ahead

While the roadmap is ambitious, Vi still faces stiff competition, financial pressures, and the challenge of reviving its user base. The 5G rollout may serve as a turnaround point, provided the company continues to focus on:

• Affordable pricing

• Seamless customer experience

• Strong urban coverage

• Strategic partnerships

If Vi succeeds in these areas, it could potentially regain lost market share and emerge as a strong third force in India’s telecom sector.

Conclusion

Vodafone Idea’s launch of 5G services in Delhi NCR is a key milestone in its digital transformation journey. With the goal of covering all 17 priority circles by August 2025, Vi is poised to become a serious contender in India’s 5G race. Through strategic tech collaborations, competitive pricing, and heavy investments, Vi is preparing to meet the evolving demands of digital India.

As the company rolls out in more cities like Bengaluru and Mysuru, the focus remains on delivering fast, reliable, and seamless 5G connectivity to empower both consumers and businesses alike.

The Upcoming IPOs in this week and coming weeks are Integrity Borana Weaves, Belrise Industries, Wagons Learning.

The Current active IPO are Accretion Pharmaceuticals, Integrity Infrabuild Developers and Virtual Galaxy Infotech.

Start your Stock Market Journey and Apply in IPO by Opening Free Demat Account in Choice Broking FinX.

Join our Trading with CA Abhay Telegram Channel for regular Stock Market Trading and Investment Calls by CA Abhay Varn - SEBI Registered Research Analyst.