Google Expands AI Reach in India with Free Gemini Access for Jio Users
In a significant move to enhance its AI offerings, Google has partnered with Reliance Intelligence, a subsidiary of Reliance Industries, to provide free access to its advanced AI model, Gemini, to customers of India’s largest mobile network operator, Jio. Users who subscribe to Jio’s Unlimited 5G plan will enjoy complimentary access to Google AI Pro for an introductory period of 18 months.
This initiative allows eligible Jio customers to utilize Gemini 2.5 Pro, Google’s most sophisticated AI technology, along with enhanced capabilities for Nano Banana and Veo 3.1 AI image and video generators. Additionally, participants will benefit from expanded access to NotebookLM and receive 2TB of cloud storage across Google applications, representing a total value of approximately 35,100 rupees ($396) per user.
Initially, this exclusive offer will target Jio customers aged 18 to 25 but is intended to be rolled out to all qualifying users through the MyJio app. Google’s investment in Jio began in 2020 when the tech giant acquired a 7.7 percent stake valued at $4.5 billion, indicating its commitment to the Indian market.
The expansion of AI services in India is rapidly evolving, as other players like Perplexity AI and OpenAI also intensify their presence. Recently, Perplexity AI collaborated with Bharti Airtel, Jio’s competitor, to offer a one-year Perplexity Pro subscription to Airtel’s 360 million customers. Meanwhile, OpenAI has launched its most affordable ChatGPT subscription in India, priced at 390 rupees ($4.60), which provides users with significantly enhanced features.
Key Points:
– Google offers free Gemini access to Jio users for 18 months.
– The package includes Gemini 2.5 Pro and additional AI tools.
– Initial availability targets users aged 18-25, with plans for broader access.
– Google’s investment in Jio highlights its strategic interest in the Indian market.
– Other AI firms are also expanding their offerings in India, intensifying competition.
