Jio Becomes World’s Largest Fixed Wireless Access Provider
Reliance Jio, the largest telecom company in India, is set to take the title of the world’s largest Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) provider from US-based T-Mobile. This move marks Jio’s aggressive expansion into the broadband market, enabled by the 5G network infrastructure it invested and built, and inexpensive Jio AirFiber products that connect millions of households and small businesses throughout India.
According to reports, Jio officially surpassed 20 million FWA subscribers by mid-2025, T-Mobile had 19.8 million. This is a significant turn in the global broadband market because it is another indication that India is rising in the global market as a digital player, and Jio continues to innovate by providing high-speed internet to unserved locations and ways of life with its affordable and relatively high-speed 5G based fixed wireless broadband solutions.
Key Highlights
Jio’s FWA Journey
- Jio launched the Jio AirFiber product in September 2023.
- Jio AirFiber is plug-and-play broadband product based off of 5G.
- Entry-level plans start at ₹599/month for Jio AirFiber subscription.
- Less than 2 years to get over 20 million FWA subscribers
Comparison with T-Mobile
- T-Mobile, the US-based telecom giant, is the previous leader in global FWA activities before Jio.
- Jio surpassed T-Mobile’s subscribers of 19.8 million by mid-2025.
- Jio’s Broad Network Reach
- Jio currently has its 5G network covering 98% of India’s population.
- Jio has extended its coverage into rural and tier-2 and tier-3 cities.
Impact and Significance of the Development
Through Jio Airfiber, users now have access to high-speed internet for,
- Education
- E-commerce
- Healthcare (telemedicine)
- online jobs/businesses
- FWA will spur digital inclusion across underserved groups and covid-19 endangered places of living.
- Jio will be the model for affordable broadband service delivery for developing countries in emerging economies.
Global Attention
Jio’s Global FWA Model is being assessed and learned about from top international telecom companies that are considering how Jio deployed Fixed Wireless Access in unserved and emergent markets.