Key Highlights:
- Telecom operators impose a 300GB data cap despite advertising “unlimited” 5G data.
- TRAI regulations classify data usage beyond 300GB as commercial, leading to speed restrictions.
- Vi, Airtel, and Jio follow similar policies, though Jio claims no data cap.
Vi’s ‘Unlimited’ 5G Data: What’s the Catch?
Vodafone Idea (Vi) recently launched its 5G services in Mumbai, promoting “unlimited 5G data” as part of its rollout. However, reports indicate that Vi’s unlimited plan actually caps data at 300GB. Once users exceed this limit, speeds drop to 64Kbps, significantly affecting browsing and streaming experiences.
While Vi markets its “unlimited” offering, this aligns with industry-wide practices, where telecom operators impose similar restrictions.
The Industry-Wide 300GB Limit
As per TRAI regulations, data consumption beyond 300GB per month is classified as commercial usage. This allows telecom companies to enforce speed reductions once users exceed the threshold, despite advertising their plans as “unlimited”.
Vi’s 5G plans include a 300GB data cap within a 28-day cycle. After this, speeds drop dramatically, making high-speed internet usage virtually impossible.
How Airtel and Jio Compare
Vi is not alone in implementing these data restrictions:
- Airtel also enforces a 300GB cap in 30 days, as stated in its terms and conditions.
- Jio, however, claims to impose no data cap on 5G usage. While this sounds promising, users are advised to review the fine print before choosing a plan.
As 5G adoption continues to grow, users should be aware of hidden data restrictions within so-called unlimited plans. Checking terms and conditions can help avoid unexpected speed reductions and ensure a seamless browsing experience.
