Jio hunts for partners for wireless broadband tech

Indian billionaire Mukesh Ambani's Jio Platforms has engaged in discussions with several companies, such as Comcast and Charter Communications, regarding the licensing of its wireless broadband technology in exchange for potential ownership stakes, according to sources familiar with the matter. Similarly, talks with South Africa's MTN Group also took place, but they failed to materialize due to disagreements over valuation and licensing concerns, the sources added.

Jio, which recently went public in Mumbai following a record-breaking $3.2 billion IPO, has not disclosed a specific timeline for finalizing any of these potential partnerships. The company, controlled by Reliance Industries through Mukesh Ambani, has been exploring international expansion with its unique broadband technology, referred to internally as a global first.

This technology leverages free, unlicensed Wi-Fi frequencies, offering a more cost-effective solution for delivering internet to households compared to conventional cable networks or mobile-based services.

Reliance Industries-backed Jio has been actively seeking at least 10 to 15 global partners for its technology platform, which operates wirelessly without the need for cables, utilizing transmitters mounted on nearby towers or rooftops to transmit high-speed internet via Wi-Fi frequencies to buildings' receivers. However, despite these efforts, MTN reportedly found it challenging to reach an agreement with Jio on the valuation that would satisfy both parties. The specifics of the potential collaboration between Jio and MTN remain undisclosed.